Wicked Little Sins

by Holly Hood

  He quickly snagged the bag off the bottom and made a break for the door.

  His skin cooled off right away when he hit the night air. It had been like a sauna in there. He was excited to get to the truck so he could start digging in the bag for answers.

  “Ok, let’s see what’s in here,” he said, starting up the truck so he could run the heater while he sat there going through the mystery bag.

  Ethan prayed that whatever he found, it would be something that would provide him with the answers he so desperately needed. He unzipped the bag and dove right in. He was shocked to find a handgun, a small envelope, and a flash drive. He tore into the envelope to find two new bank cards. His mom’s name was on one and the name of the man in prison for her murder was on the other. He kept digging in the bag to find two passports. He touched his mother’s face on the one passport; the one with Sam’s picture he shoved back in the bag.

  “They were planning to leave…she was going to take off with him,” he said out loud. He was shocked to think his mom would actually have the nerve to leave his dad. What was it about this Sam guy that had his mom so willing to give up her life with Dad and leave? Ethan put the truck in gear, sliding the contents underneath the truck’s seat. He’d check out that flash drive when he got back to the dorm.

  As his truck sped down the highway, a black car came barreling toward him. He turned the wheel at the last minute, able to dodge the car by just inches.

  “Are you blind?!” he yelled, pounding the dashboard. He honked his horn wildly and sped up. He tried his hardest to catch up to the Aston Martin that had nearly crashed into him. The windows were dark and he couldn’t see who was inside. He wanted to get the license plate number but the car was long gone before he had the opportunity. He suddenly came to a screeching halt as he slammed on his brakes to avoid hitting the stopped traffic in front of him.

  Dad

  Ned woke up to Gray licking his face. He rolled over and groaned as he tried to fill his lungs with air. His head was a pounding mess and he wondered how long he’d been on the floor. Pulling himself to his feet, he staggered forward to see the complete disarray throughout his house. It looked like a tornado had blown through—more than once. He shook his head in disbelief as he walked across the floor of paper, busted and shattered pieces of his dining room table, grandfather clock, and every other imaginable thing—even shoes and tennis rackets had been torn apart. Parts of his staircase had been pried loose leaving gaping holes. Broken pictures and mirrors had been smashed throughout and the glass cracked underneath the weight of his feet as he walked across the room to shut the door. A small layer of snow had made its way in while he lay there unconscious. Somebody wanted something from his family and they were willing to go to extremes—even inflicting bodily harm—to get it. He was grateful to be alive but he had no intention of hanging around any longer.

  “Come on, boy,” he said, whistling to Gray. He held on tight to the railing as he made his way upstairs to pack his clothes. He was going to get away as far as possible. He held tight to the railing making his way upstairs to pack his clothes. He was going to get far away from Ohio.

  Outside of Ned’s house lay a package, almost completely covered in snow. Mrs. Winston, a young woman who’d just moved into the neighborhood, stood on the porch dusting the snow off the package. She was only trying to be kind as she lightly knocked on the door.

  “I’ll take that,” a deep voice from behind her said. She jumped, clutching her hands to her chest.

  “You really shouldn’t sneak up on people like that,” she said to the gargantuan man staring down at her. She was a dainty woman, hardly five feet tall, and with one quick movement, he grabbed her and snapped her neck. Dragging her across the porch, he let her body drop into the bushes and kicked the papers that had gathered around over her body. He tucked the small package under his arm and descended the stairs in one quick motion, as snow quickly covered the enormous boot tracks.

  Everly and Vinnie

  It was the end of another practice for Everly and her band, and now she was alone at her condo, the soft lull of classical music filling the air. The fire from the fireplace illuminated the dark room. She sat Indian style on her comforter looking at the package she held in her hands. She wondered what could be inside and started shaking it in one direction and then another. She finally couldn’t take it any longer and slit the tape with her fingernail so she could open the box. Inside the box she found a beautiful silver locket along with a letter from her mom. It pained her to see her mom’s handwriting.

  Sniffling as she opened the letter, she would have never imagined what she was about to read.

  ***

  “I really shouldn’t have had those last two glasses of champagne,” Janelle said, hiccupping.

  Vinnie kept his hand at her waist helping her into his condo. She had insisted on coming back to the condo with him. She was very drunk and it was too late in the night to go home and face her fiancé.

  “You really shouldn’t have,” he said. But I’m glad you did, he thought to himself.

  “Vinnie, this place is gorgeous. I can’t believe you live in such a swanky place,” she gushed.

  He let go of her and watched her admire the artwork on his walls and touch the iron statues that sat at the bottom of the staircase.

  “Really nice,” she said again.

  “Thank you,” he replied.

  He had no idea what he was doing; he’d gotten himself in a real mess here. He knew her fiancé was probably at home wondering where she was. Knowing how men thought, Vince figured he had probably figured out already that she was unfaithful. His life was messy enough. This was the last thing he needed.

  “What are you thinking over there? Where’s that gorgeous smile of yours?” she asked, coming up to him. She grabbed hold of his wrist and stared up at his blank expression.

  “You’re going to get yourself into a lot of trouble,” he said, looking down at her.

  “Brad trusts me. Let’s sit down and talk. Tell me about your life,” she pushed.

  “But I don’t trust me, sweetheart,” he sighed. “What do you want to know?”

  “You seem sad. She really hurt you, didn’t she?” she asked, as she sat down on the sofa.

  “Sometimes I wonder if it’s worth it to be in love. I don’t like to see a man like you get hurt so bad,” she said. He had no intention of discussing Everly with her.

  Vinnie listened to Janelle’s intoxicated babblings and it pulled him right in. He wanted to hear more. He lay back on the couch letting Janelle make herself comfortable in his arms.

  “I want to hear more about your silly American thoughts on love,” he whispered in her ear.

  “Oh, you think they’re silly, huh? What is love to you then?” she asked, pulling her hair down. He ran his hands through it smoothing it out as she kept talking.

  “I have yet to figure that one out. I am a man who knows just what he wants, and for some reason the one person I wanted found a way to slip right away from me,” he said, faking a laugh.

  Janelle smiled and closed her eyes as his thick Russian accent lulled her to sleep. While his heart thudded softly in her ear, Vinnie was content to just hold this angelic girl in his arms. He leaned his head back against the soft cushion. He closed his eyes and drifted off into a calming sleep. He’d not slept so trouble free in days. He’d been spending every waking minute thinking of Everly, so it was nice to be able to forget—if only for just a little while.

  Dad

  Ned was doing his best to stay awake as he drove down the long empty expressway. The family dog sat next to him in his old pickup. The distress showed all over his face, as he headed out of Ohio, unsure of where he was headed. His plan was to drive until an idea hit him.

  “Just you and me, Gray,” he whispered to the old dog.

  He promised himself that as soon as he made it a safe distance away, he’d call each of the kids to let them know he was okay. He didn’t want any of the
m to fear the worst. Who was he kidding? There was a slim chance of that happening; he doubted they’d be worried at all. They were involved in their own lives and would probably never know if he was missing or not. Maybe he shouldn’t say anything to anyone. So until he could make up his mind where he was going, he’d keep the kids out of it.

  The Letters

  Everly was still rereading the letter that was draped across her legs. She was astonished at all her mom had to say.

  Everly,

  My oldest child, how I loved you since the moment you were placed in my arms. I know you will be the one to take my death the hardest.

  But I want you to know that you can make it through anything, my sweet girl.

  I am sure by now you are all through your grieving and what probably felt like the worst is now a dull ache.

  Am I right?

  I know you can move on, and I don’t want you to forget about me. But I also don’t want to ruin what a wonderful life you have in store for you.

  You probably will never have answers to why I left you guys so soon, and I’m sure you’re incredibly angry. But we all have to take responsibility for our actions. And I knew that the actions I chose were going to lead me one of two ways. The first could turn out magical in that I have found my true soul mate. The hope of living the rest of my life in the allure of love and happiness. Or, I could regret that I took a chance at all. Well, we see how it all turned out, right?

  Sam was the love of my life and I know it hurts to hear that. But I loved him more than I ever loved Ned. Sam and I had a long history and we finally gave in, knowing it was too much to bear to live separate lives. Sure, we both knew we were taking the chance of a horrible outcome, but Everly, if I have learned anything in my years, it’s this one thing: When you know where your heart belongs, you will do anything to make sure it’s where it’s supposed to be. Love, I have learned, is the one thing that knows no boundaries and it’s the most effortless and satisfying part of our lives.

  The one thing I tried to instill in all of my children was to love with all you’ve got. And be who you feel you were meant to be, express your gifts, your talents. Sometimes put yourself first and never regret anything that you choose to do in life, because at one time it mattered.

  Furthermore, Everly Anne, I want you to remember what matters most if you start to dwell on my death. And never give up on the people that mean the most to you…like Vinnie. I know a good man when I see one—Vinnie is one for sure. I realize he is conceited and sees himself as God’s gift to women. For as much as he is into himself, he is into you wholeheartedly. Please don’t throw him away.

  Love, Mom

  p.s.

  I know you’re wondering what the locket is for, and whether Sam would really harm me. Sam would never harm a single hair on my head. And the locket, you will find that it has all the answers. If you sense that something is ever not right, know that my heart can save you all from true harm. And for heaven’s sake steer clear of anyone by the name of Evelyn.

  Folding the letter carefully, she pulled an old shoebox from underneath her bed. It held lots of photographs and old love letters perfectly tied with pink silk ribbons. Untying a stack, she added her mother’s letter to the pile. Everly didn’t know everything, but she was happy to have this letter from her mother.

  She turned the bed down, slipping under the comforter. She snapped the lamp off and lay down with a smile on her face. The fire in the fireplace had died to a dull glow, illuminating her face as she slipped off into sleep.

  ***

  He was gone. Adrian had kissed her goodbye before leaving on his flight to go home to Ohio. Charley was lonely and pained; she’d enjoyed their time together immensely.

  The few days Adrian was in New York had cemented her endearment for the handsome, brown-eyed guy. She was sad they hadn’t discussed when he might return, and he’d seemed hurried as if he wanted to get back home as soon as possible. She didn’t understand his rush to leave, but she’d been assured he’d had a fantastic time and he would miss her.

  Charley leaned across her kitchen counter studying the unique jewelry box--dark enamel redwood with glass doors, tiny roses etched in the delicate glass. Her mother always knew what she liked best. She opened the door and ran a hand over the red velvet interior, triggering a memory from her childhood. She’d always admired her mother’s jewelry box and she loved the gift.

  “What’s this?” she asked out loud pulling out a rolled letter. It had been nestled snugly in the back corner of the box. She untied the red ribbon sitting down on a stool to read it.

  My Sunshine,

  Charley Rae you were my joy. My delight as a mother started the moment I had you. Now that I’m gone, I can say this--Everly was a great daughter, but you, my dear, you’re exceptional. I know you’re my strong one, and I know you’re going to stay successful even when I’m gone. Not because you don’t care, but because you understand that I’m still with you.

  I never had to worry about my Charley; I always looked forward to every step you made through life. You are a hard worker, you love life, and I am proud to call you my daughter.

  The day I wrote this letter, I sat alone in my office, sipping on chamomile tea from that little boutique up the street. And it took a lot to convey all that I wanted to say in short letters, but I found a way.

  I don’t need to handle you with kid gloves; I can tell you how it is. My death was something I’d seen coming. I knew that I’d been playing with fire. I loved Sam and I’m sorry you had to find out this way. I’ve loved him for many years and we saw our lives passing us by. We were desperately trying to be free and move on to have a life together.

  Don’t hate Sam, Charley; he is not the one responsible for you not having your mother. I don’t want you to make a big deal about my death. Live your life, sweet girl. Just know some things are better left for the authorities to work out.

  And lastly, Charley, there is not much more to tell you than this—I want you to live an amazing life. Find a special man to share it with. You deserve happiness and I’m sure there is someone out there for you. Find time to occasionally enjoy yourself. And keep an eye on your dad. He’s going to need someone now more than ever.

  p.s.

  I know the locket is a bit confusing. Just know my heart will help you when and if you need it the most.

  Love, Mom

  Charlie folded the letter neatly, putting it away in her top drawer. She stood for a long moment taking in all her mother’s words. She knew her mom would want her to move forward and not linger in the past. She touched the dainty locket that hung from her neck, wondering what was on that tiny chip. Her mother had said the answers were there when and if she needed them, but she didn’t need them right now.

  ***

  Quinn stood staring at the small package that sat outside her apartment. Something about it didn’t seem quite right and she didn’t know who it was from. She kneeled down poking it with her fingers. Finally satisfied it wouldn’t hurt her, she picked it up and shook it near her ear. She unlocked the door, tossed her mail and keys on the coffee table, then plopped down on the sofa in her tiny living room, ready to dive right in to see what was in that package.

  She put her feet up on the table, sat back and popped the tape on the package. She shook the box and an envelope and a small red pouch fell onto her lap.

  Untying the pouch, she reached in with two fingers and pulled out a silver necklace.

  “Not bad,” she said softly, studying it for value. She popped open the locket, wondering what the chip was all about. She moved on to the letter, hoping it would tell her about the jewelry and who had sent it.

  Quinn Rose,

  My angel, you were always my sweet princess. Spoiled and headstrong, you have all my bad qualities. But those who know you best, know you’re really delicate and sweet and you mean well. I have always loved you. I realize you may be somewhat scattered and my death has brought you so many questions.

  B
eginning to sob, Quinn tossed the letter on the couch. Percy scampered off, startled at her behavior. She pulled her knees to her chest and wrapped her arms around them while maintaining a firm grasp on the locket. She felt so alone not having anyone there to soothe her of the pain she felt at the moment. She finally pulled herself together and wiped her eyes. She held the letter in her trembling hand, telling herself she’d be okay.

  I am wondering right now if you will have the strength to read this whole letter. I hope you do. I will not make it long and drawn out. Just know that I love you. It’s going to take some time for things to feel normal again, but it will happen. I need you to find peace with my passing and try to move on. Do all that we’ve talked about and try to be happy with your life and your goals. Please keep in touch with your family--they’re going to need you as much as you will need them.

  Love,

  Mom

  Quinn balled the letter up and tossed it into her wastebasket. She wasn’t ready to read that and she never wanted to again. Her mother was right; she didn’t do well with her emotions. The last thing she wanted to do was talk about them.

  She curled up into a nice tight ball on her sofa and closed her eyes, wishing with everything she had in her that sleep would come easily.

  ***

  Ethan was still shaken as he made his way back into his dorm. After nearly crashing his truck in a big traffic jam, he wasn’t feeling all that well. He shook his arms rapidly, trying to free himself of the tension that lingered from his near accident.

  Seth, his roommate, a young quiet kid came into the room carrying a brown box. He made his way to Ethan and, without a word, handed over the brown box.