Chapter 5:The Contract
253 Words
Zara didn’t sleep.
1:17am. She slipped out.
The study. Door open.
The contract was on the desk. 52 pages.
She started from the back this time.
CLAUSE 11.2: TERMINATION BY HUSBAND
`“The Husband may terminate with 24 hours notice. Wife forfeits all payments.”`
CLAUSE 11.3: TERMINATION BY DEATH
`“All payments cease. Husband bears no liability.”`
Attached to the last page: a sticky note. Handwritten.
`“Make sure she doesn’t read 11.3 - D”`
D. Damian.
Zara took photos fast. Her hands shook.
Footsteps.
She dove under the desk.
The light came on.
`“Who’s there?”` Damian.
Silence.
He walked to the desk. Picked up the contract.
Paused.
`“Zara,”` he said quietly. `“I know you’re here.”`
Zara didn’t breathe.
30 seconds.
The light went off. Door closed.
She waited 5 minutes before crawling out.
Phone out. 3 photos. Run.
In her room she zoomed in. The note. His handwriting.
Phone buzzed.
Unknown: `Did you find it? Meet me tomorrow. Federal Palace. Room 202. 9pm. - B`
Zara typed: `“Who are you?”`
Reply: `“Someone who doesn’t want you to end up like Amina. Ask him about Day 90.”`
Day 90.
Zara put the phone down.
She signed a contract to save her mom.
She didn’t sign up to die.
She had 361 days left.
And someone was counting down with her.
END OF CHAPTER 5
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