Chapter 35. Shadows of the Alley

Linda Wells

It is the next day, to be exact, my wedding day. I am sitting on a chair in front of a vanity mirror. My reflection looks just how I feel, and that is emotionally drained.

The ceremony is being held at the same church it was the first time Mitch and I tried to get married. Mitch invited so many people, and my heart breaks each time I am reminded that I am wearing a wedding dress. My parents got it for me last minute.

My hair was impressively done by a hairdresser who once did Beyoncé’s hair for a music video. My lips are stained by light red lipstick, and my cheeks have some blush to give them color.

I have half an hour to get to the church, yet I have been in this room staring at my reflection for twenty minutes.

I have no choice but to be there, that I know. If I didn’t show up, Mitch would pull the trigger; he would turn my dad in, and he could lose all that he has worked for his entire life.

My sister and her husband are the ones t