LEXI Taking one last look in the mirror, I fixed the rebellious strand that refused to stay in place with an exasperated sigh. River’s hair had a mind of its own… thick, stubborn, and wild even when drowned in gel. With another sigh, I tried again, pinching the strand down, and willing it to stay. It didn’t. But whatever, it was close enough... I was done with it. “Okay, Lexi,” I whispered to myself, stepping back to assess the last look. I was about to head out on a spa date with Mrs. Lane; one small breath of relief before the inevitable storm that was her husband's return. He’d driven off a while ago; I’d watched him reverse out of the driveway with a tight stomach and dread. Only after I was sure he was gone did I venture down to eat something. As I turned to head to the door

