Chapter 66

Bella

I paused at the edge of the compound gate the late afternoon sun slanting low and hos across my face Something made m glance back up toward the third-floor window of the state. There he was, Darrell, standing framed in the glass like a pamun z I didn’t want to remember. He held a white coffee cup in one hand, the steam curling lazily. Our eyes locked for a spli second. Then came that small, knowing smirk, the kind that said he already owned the next time. He turned away slowly fingers catching the cord of the blinds. One smooth purk and the slats snapped shut cutting him off from view

I let out a soft sigh that tasted like dust and regret.

My hand dipped into my bag before I could think better of it. Three thick bundles stared back at re-crisp edges, rubber banded, and more money than I’d,held in months. A real, stupid, giddy smile broke across my face despite everything For one heartbeat, the weight in my chest lifted. I could pay rent without making a few calls I could eat something that waste

instant noodles. I could breathe

I zipped the bag shut and started walking faster toward the main road, sandals slapping against cracked concrete

Then the tires screeched sharply, too close to me