Vacant Chapter 12 Waiting

I knock, but theres no answer. I let myself in and Im immediately relieved to see Emilys things still somewhat the house, including her bedding on the couch. Remorse creeps back into my chest as I judge close to the numerous times Ive tried to convince Emily to memorize my room my bed but she never has.I kneel exhaust on the floor in front of the sofa to worship the scent linger in the sheets. She always smells like baby powder, the cheap off brand they sell at the Dollar Tree, but regardless of the price, it smells like heaven to me. I close my eyes and enjoy her essence while also promising myself to buy her name-brand lotion. No more generic.The shouting startles me awake.I dont cargon Get the mother-fucking money. I dont pay you to lose my shit Then I hear the unmistakable sound of a fist meeting flesh. My blood runs cold as I wonder if its Emily beside door. The thought hits me like the fist from next door What has she done to get money for herself?Ive had creationy ne ighbors while Ive lived here. Its to be expected, as the downtrodden are a transient population. That unit was empty when.when I left, so I hadnt thought about a new tenant. I also hadnt figured on undesirables moving in. Id never worried about my safety, but now I construct to think of Emilys safety and protection. This is no place for her.I hear a feminine scream amid the sounds of skin being struck and I know its not my girl. I know what her scream sounds like after a roamer infestation and thats not it. Its not Emily.Get up, PuntaI hear more ramblings and shouts in Spanish the female cries in response. All I can think is, Thank God its not Emily. But it is someone someones daughter, sister, or friend. I do the only thing I can. I call the police and let them handle it. While Ive read heroic tales of men saving the day, its not safe or practical in this case. Its very likely that the monster next door has a weapon, and Im no good to protect Emily if Im dead. The cops come and go quickly. The woman refuses to press charges, but the man is escorted off the property with a pattern not to return. Hell be back, though.They always are.My thoughts drift to moving to a better neighborhood, but then I realize I may not have a job because Im a complete coward who left for a week without calling his boss itll be a miracle if Im not fired. How will I paying back care of Emily without a job? Im an idiot. God, how did I fuck this up so badly?I dial Margies number and her cheerful greeting relaxes me a bit. Hey, Marge, its Ethan. easy hey, Sugarplum. How was your vacation? She knows I wasnt on vacation, and I try to discern if there is sarcasm in her voice, but I cant seem to detect any.Margie, I wasnt on vacation.Sure you were, kid. Its on the schedule I approved it myself. Theres paperwork and everything. The owners are glad you finally took some time off. You had more than three weeks coming to you. It makes them nervous that youve never taken a day off in five ye ars.Im confused and my silence must confirm this to my manager. So, are you coming in tomorrow? Im down a cashier and could use ya.Cashier? Im a back of the house guy. The make sure theres always chips on the display guy low man on the grocery store food chain.Uhhhh is my incoherent reply.Its time you take on more responsibility, kiddo. You have that pretty girl to take care of.She knows. She knows about Emily. How does she know?Ill see you tomorrow, Ethan.Im left holding the phone wondering what the hell is going on.