The SUV hadn't even fully stopped before Kieran was out the door. The gas station sat there, looking pathetic under the flickering neon.
Kieran burst through the door. The bell made a sharp, annoying ping.
"Aurielle!"
Nothing. Just the hum of a shitty refrigerator in the corner. Then he saw the old man.
He was slumped over the counter, head resting on the cash register like he'd fallen asleep—except for the dark hole in his temple and the blood pooling around the 'Open' sign. Next to him, the landline phone was a mess. The receiver was ripped off the hook, dangling by its curly black cord, hitting the side of the desk.
Kieran's hand shook as he reached for it. This was the phone. This was the last thing she touched.
"Kieran, look at this place," Kendella said, stepping in behind him. She didn't look bothered. She didn't even look at the dead guy. She was busy checking her nails, her eyes bored as they scanned the room. "The place is a wreck. Scattered."
