Deep End

by Ali Hazelwood

I make to leave, but a finger slides in the belt loop of my jeans and pulls me back. Close.

The way I would be pregnant immediately

“Oh, sweetheart.” My belly swoops at the endearment. His tone lives somewhere between sympathy and amusement. “If you don’t think that I’m very aware of your presence, always, you have no idea what’s going on.”

“What’s a good luck troll?” “You know. Those little creatures who watch over us and bring good fortune.” “I most certainly do not know of…” I laugh. “Oh my god, is that why you’ve been calling me troll?”

“I need you to admit it, Scarlett.” His voice is a low, resolute rumble. “I need you to not leave me alone to face this.”

IM SIX FEET UNDER. DECEASED. 😫