I Gave Away the Birthday Chocolates, Then the Screaming Started

murder,” I said. “And two of the victims are minors. I hope you understand what happens next.”

I walked out.

The front door clicked shut behind me with a quiet finality that felt like a chapter ending.

I drove for hours. Up and down 315. Over the bridge by the Scioto Mile, the river reflecting city lights like broken glass. Out toward the suburbs and continue reading …