Chapter 18 - Giving the Paw

Shirley

I would love more than anything to leave Ralph to rot in his cell, but I know that I can’t. Not only because I need to continue impressing him, but also because I need to see if the conditions of my charm were met.

Sneaking in was easy as I stayed within the shadows and waited until the guards were in the middle of a shift change before I slipped by. Ralph’s eyes had lit up when he saw me appear at his cell door, showing him that I brought plenty of food and water for him to enjoy.

But now we’re standing within the dark together - both of us tucked into his cell as I was able to get in with the key I’d swiped from the guard. I was surprised Ralph didn’t suggest we just escape together, but I think we’re both aware that the consequences are too great.

So instead, we’re just staring at each other and Ralph’s eyes still shine with adoration. I know that’s my cue, my sign that it’s time to initiate the next phase of my plan, so I take a breath…and I remove my glasses.

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