Chapter 82: Noah

In the days that followed, we moved all of Madison’s belongings back home. She chose to sign her lease over to her friend, Alice, who turned out to be having a hard time finding a new place for herself. 

I found myself in a constant state of vigilance. Madison’s safety was my top priority, and I couldn’t shake the feeling of dread that clung to me like a second skin. 

I didn’t go to the office, opting to work from home and let Joe manage as much as he could himself. I stayed close to Madison, always within reach. During the day, I accompanied her everywhere, Chris tagging along whenever he wasn’t at school. 

At doctor’s appointments, I held her hand and listened to the heartbeat of our unborn child. At the grocery store, when Madison wanted to get out of the house, I pushed the cart and reached for the items on the higher shelves as Chris stayed latched to Madison’s hand, excitedly pointing out his favorite items.