I punch in the code.Beep. Click.
The door swings open.
Stacks of cash. Passports. Guns.
I grab a twenty-dollar bill. Just one. If I take more, he might notice the stack height change. He notices everything.
I shove the bill into my bra. I close the safe.
I change quickly. I take off the paint-stained shirt and put on a pair of jeans and a loose sweater. I pull my hair back.
I grab my purse.
I walk out of the penthouse and into the private elevator.
"Ground floor," I command.
The doors slide shut.
I check my tracker.100 BPM.
Calm down, Ivy. You’re just going for a walk. You’re allowed to walk.
The concierge smiles at me as I cross the lobby. "Good morning, Mrs. Vane. Heading out?"
"Just to the bodega around the corner," I say, forcing a smile. "I’m craving gummy bears."
"I can send someone, ma'am."
"No!" I say, too quickly. I soften my tone. "No, thank you, James. I need the fresh air. I’ve been cooped up in the studio all morning."
"Of course. Have a nice walk."
I step out onto the street.
The noise of New York hits me. Horns, sirens, voices. It’s grounding. It’s anonymity.
I walk fast.
I turn the corner. There is a CVS two blocks down.
I keep my head down. I keep my breathing steady.Inhale for four. Exhale for four.I have to keep my heart rate under 110. If it hits 120, Silas gets a 'distress' notification.
I reach the pharmacy. The fluorescent lights hum.
I walk to the aisle.Family Planning.
I grab a box. I don't even look at the brand.First Response.Two pack.
I walk to the counter. There is a line. An old woman paying for cat food with pennies. A man buying cigarettes.
Move. Please move.
I check my phone. 11:15 AM.
I tap my foot. My pulse is thumping in my neck.
Finally, it’s my turn.
