(mature for language and depiction of gore)
CREDIT TO MY DUDE @Boats_an_Hoes FOR THE TITLE
"It's very simple, young Aries, that you are a human error," my step-father repeated for what seemed to my young ears like the millionth time.
"This mustn't continue! I cannot bear the thought, my own son, becoming what a monster! I pray you to grow out of this horrid phase!" my mother shouted, trembling hands bringing her cigarette to her lips.
You see, they caught me pulling wings off of flies. Then, there was a call from the Baptist Temple Ministries that I had been caught with another boy. What can I say? I thrive on risks.
"I'm sorry, mom. I'm sorry, Jakobi. I promise," I start crying to further sell it, "I-I won't let it happen again."
"Won't shag another boy in the church pews? Will stop torturing animals and insects?" he narrowed his eyes at me, seeing through my facade.
And that's when it clicked in my mind, that I truly was a human error.
A criminal mastermind makes a bold move against a wealthy client to put himself in a position to retire in comfort. He has no idea what he's up against when a young widow, desperate to make ends meet, sets her eyes on earning the bounty set on his head.
***
Newly widowed housewife Melody Scott needs to earn some major cash, fast. When her bright and busy children learn that a priceless ruby bracelet has been stolen and a six-figure reward is being offered, they convince her to try to do what the police, museum security, and the best private investigators have failed to do. Working against them is a notorious thief who has met people from around the world, but who has never once encountered a woman like Melody Scott. When the sweet innocence of the Scott family clashes against criminal forces more dangerous than they ever imagined, Melody is all too aware that a mom's got to do what a mom's got to do to protect her family.
The Widow, Melody Scott is a 2021 Watty Award Winner!
Content Warning: This story does contain depictions of stalking behavior.