Chapter 18 - Counting the Cost
We checked out of the motel that afternoon.
Sarah Vance called to confirm that the emergency restraining order had been approved by a judge.
Linda had been served at her house.
According to Sarah,
Linda had screamed at the process server,
but she had signed the papers.
She knew the consequences now.
We decided not to go back to Pilsen yet.
We rented a small Airbnb in a quiet neighborhood near the lake.
It had a security gate and a guard at the front desk.
It cost more than we could afford,
but peace of mind was priceless.
That evening,
Megan sat on the balcony,
looking at the water.
The blue blanket was gone,
left behind in our old apartment.
She was wearing one of my large flannel shirts.
"I was so ashamed,
Jake,"
she said quietly,
not looking at me as I sat beside her.
"I felt like I had brought this monster into our lives."
"No,"
I said,
taking her hand.
"She was my monster."
"I should have seen it sooner."
"We both survived,"
she said,
turning to look at me.
"And so did he."
She patted her stomach.
May you like
The baby was quiet now,
resting.
