Chapter 6 - The Hidden Tape
I stared at the piece of paper in Caroline’s hand, my blood boiling with absolute hatred.
"You are a monster, Caroline," I said, my voice shaking with restrained fury.
She just took another sip of her coffee and adjusted her designer scarf.
"I am the legal guardian now, David."
"The judge signed the emergency order an hour ago based on Mom and Dad's glowing testimony about my character."
Doctor Caldwell stepped out of the elevator behind me, his presence instantly making the security guards nervous.
"Miss Miller, I am the lead surgeon on this floor, and I want you out of my hallway," Doctor Caldwell commanded.
"My lawyer says I have a right to be here," Caroline retorted, though she took a step back.
I grabbed Doctor Caldwell's arm and pulled him back into the elevator before he could call security.
"Fighting her here won't save Mia," I whispered as the doors closed.
"I need that recording."
I left the hospital and hailed a taxi, giving the driver the address of my childhood home.
The rain was pouring in sheets by the time I walked up the driveway.
The house was completely dark, the ridiculous birthday balloons now sagging and dripping on the porch columns.
I knew my father’s security system like the back of my hand.
I bypassed the motion sensor near the side gate and slipped into the backyard.
Using a heavy garden rock, I smashed the glass of the basement window and climbed through into the darkness.
I crept up the wooden stairs, my heart pounding so hard I could hear it in my ears.
The dining room smelled of stale beer and dried frosting.
I dropped to my hands and knees, sweeping my hands across the cold hardwood floor under the large oak table.
My fingers brushed against something soft and plush.
It was the gray bunny.
I pulled it out, feeling the small, hard plastic square safely hidden deep inside the cotton stuffing.
Tears of relief burned my eyes as I clutched the toy to my chest.
Suddenly, the harsh overhead lights snapped on, blinding me.
I squinted against the glare and looked up.
May you like
My brother Mark was standing in the doorway leading to the kitchen.
He was aiming our father’s loaded shotgun directly at my chest.
