"Semi-Short Stories" [ Story Collection ]

Only One Way [] 1/14 []

The living room is small - this apartment wasn't mean to hold many people at once and felt crowded with just the three adults and two dogs. One adult, dressed casually and sitting on the couch, is facing one of the three women that live in the apartment. The woman, red-haired with a crew cut and freckles, is on the edge of her seat. The third adult is in the floor with the dogs, feeding them treats one-by-one. The scene looks much happier than it is.

"What do you mean he's been let out? I thought he was given a life sentence without parole - there's no way he should be out, especially this soon."

"Michael and I don't understand it either. We were only informed about an hour ago that he's been out for a little over a day, and I'm going to look into it as soon as I get back to the office. We wanted to tell you first."

"We thought in-person would be best." Because there was a chance she'd have a panic attack.

"I appreciate it." Leigh nods and rubs both hands against her knees. She's tapping her foot. "How long do you think it'll be until he's back in?"

"That depends on why he got out in the first place."

"Why didn't they tell you?"

"I don't know. They seemed confused when I asked and said that they didn't have that information on file. Which...makes even less sense."

"I'm thinking he bribed someone." Raphael leans forwards, elbows on his knees. "Do you know anyone who would have been able and willing to help him out?"

"He was close with a bartender - Leslie's boss. But I don't think he would try to help him out like that...not after what he was arrested for, you know?"

Raphael nods. He makes a note on his phone. "Well we should go. The sooner we figure this out, the quicker it can be resolved. There's no reason for him not to be locked away."

"Sometimes I wish we could have given him the death penalty."

"I don't know...I'd worry he'd come back to haunt me, and then couldn't be stopped. You can't lock a ghost away in jail." Leigh is laughing lightly. For her own sake. "I feel a lot safer knowing exactly where he is."

"Would you like to stay with us until we locate him?"

"No...I think I'll be fine. I have my guns."

"Your many, many guns." Since the triplets aren't visiting, the apartment has yet again been decorated with handguns. Leigh is a bit more than paranoid.

Her laugh sounds more real. "Yeah, exactly. I think I'll be fine."

"Don't hesitate to call us if you ever need anything. Doesn't matter the time, we'll come help you." Michael stands, stretches. Lady copies him while Stella remains lying at Leigh's feet.

"Thank you. Keep me updated." She doesn't stand, but they both bend to hug her. She doesn't want them to see how badly she's shaking. But they know, and she knows that they know. It isn't mentioned.

"We will. I'm sure we'll have something soon."

Leigh nods as they exit. "Don't forget to lock the door behind you."