Drugs

Chapter XI

August 21st, 2016

I was quickly shuffled towards the car by Zora as questions poured out.

"Mr. Foster, how do you explain your actions at the bar?"

"I didn't think anything of it. I just did what I thought would be the best thing to allow the police to get in. I was also not the only person who did something."

"How did you get the upper hand on the gunman?"

"He was distracted."

"How bad was your injury?"

"I was shot in my arm. The doctor said I would be fine. It's nothing compared to other people who were hurt more seriously."

I was now in front of Zora's car. It was quite modern, maybe a year or two old. We both got in as more questions were asked.

As she was about to drive off, I said, "Thanks for the questions, but unfortunately I won't be able to answer them all. I hope for the best for those who were with me in the hospital."

Zora didn't wait for a response before she drove off.

"That was unexpected," she said to me.

"Yeah, that was probably the most attention I was ever paid in my life."

"Really?" She laughed. "I can see why. You handled yourself well, though."

"You think so? Thanks a lot."

She paused before she said, "When I saw you hurt, it really made me worry. I never knew you were so brave. You handled the pain well."

"I really wasn't thinking when I did it. I just didn't want anyone to get hurt, especially you."

I saw her glance again at my ring as I rubbed it between my fingers. There was a silence between us.

I wanted to say more about the hospital and let her know I would repay her tomorrow. I could see, however, that merely mentioning that to her would not dissuade her, and she would only think I was crazy. After all, how does a man who was always broke suddenly inherit a fortune?

Before long, we were back at the bar carpark. There was a sudden change in her behaviour. It seemed the place still brought back the memories from earlier.

"So, here we are," she said, glancing at me.

I flinched. I didn't know what would be the best thing to do now. I smiled awkwardly at her as I got out of the car.

"Thanks again," I said. I walked over to Betty. She watched me get in. As I waved my hand, she drove off.

Who was protecting who? The wind seemed colder as I looked again at the area where Martini used to work. There were other girls there, strutting about. I started Betty up as I pulled out of the carpark and drove home.

I was surrounded by darkness, and the light from my car barely pierced it. I would have to make a serious decision on what to do next. Either I go to that hell at 12:00 a.m. or I send someone else.

***

I turned my engine off outside my flat as the monster that waited for me inside came to mind. I began my walk up the stairs.

"I am in control, I am in control," I kept saying to myself. I was at the top of the stairs now.

Everything was quiet as I approached my door. I reached for my keys and placed it into the lock. As the door opened, a deep abyss of darkness greeted me.