Chapter 12: A Place to Land

Lexie trudged up the steps to her dorm room, her bag heavy on her shoulder and her mind even heavier with the blackmailer’s latest message. The words, though a concession to her growing limitations, carried the same cruel undertone:

“You’re no good to me if you can’t stay healthy. Slow down. Focus on the baby. For now.”

The implication was clear—her use to the blackmailer wasn’t over. But for the first time in months, Lexie felt a sliver of relief. She could stop the nightly appointments, at least temporarily. The weight she carried wasn’t just emotional anymore. Her body was straining under the demands of her pregnancy, and each step felt like she was carrying a mountain.

Her relief was short-lived when she received the follow-up message:

“Your dorm is no longer an option. You’ll need to find new housing. I have someone in mind.”

Before Lexie could reply, there was a knock at her door. She opened it to find Carly standing there, a sheepish smile on her face.

“Hey,” Carly said, her tone oddly friendly, even warm. “Can I come in?”

Lexie hesitated but stepped aside to let her in. She hadn’t spoken to Carly much since the tattoo confrontation, and the tension between them had only grown as Lexie’s behavior became more erratic.

Carly perched on the edge of the desk chair, her posture casual. “Look, I know things have been ... complicated. But I heard you’re withdrawing, and I thought maybe I could help.”

Lexie blinked, unsure how to respond.

Carly continued, her tone sincere. “I just bought a new townhome off-campus. It’s got a finished basement with its own entrance and bathroom. If you need a place to stay, I’m offering it.”

The words hung in the air, and Lexie felt a rush of conflicting emotions—gratitude, suspicion, and a sinking feeling that the blackmailer was somehow involved.

“Why?” Lexie asked cautiously. “Why would you do that for me?”

Carly shrugged. “Because everyone deserves a little help when they’re down. And honestly, I think you could use some stability right now.”

Lexie wanted to believe her, but trust wasn’t something she could afford anymore.

Two days later, Lexie found herself standing in the doorway of Carly’s new townhome. The place was modest but clean and well-furnished, a stark contrast to the chaos Lexie had been living in.

“The basement’s down here,” Carly said, leading the way.

The space was small but functional—a cozy bedroom, a tiny kitchenette, and a private bathroom. For the first time in weeks, Lexie felt a small spark of hope. Maybe this could be a fresh start, a chance to focus on her pregnancy without the suffocating pressure of the dorms and her reputation.

But that hope was short-lived when Carly leaned against the doorframe and said, “Oh, by the way, I’ve got a friend who might stop by occasionally. He’s helped me out a lot, so just be nice to him, okay?”

Lexie’s stomach dropped. She didn’t have to ask who Carly’s “friend” was.

Over the next few weeks, Lexie tried to settle into her new life. Carly was friendly, almost too friendly, and Lexie couldn’t shake the feeling that her generosity came with strings attached.

The blackmailer’s messages had slowed but not stopped entirely. They checked in regularly, reminding Lexie of her obligations and keeping her tethered to their control.

“How’s the new setup? Comfortable? Remember, you’re there because I allow it. Don’t get too comfortable.”

Lexie hated herself for the relief she felt at not having to endure nightly appointments anymore, even if the reprieve was likely temporary. Her days were spent resting, attending the doctor appointments dictated by the blackmailer, and trying to prepare herself for motherhood—though even that felt like an illusion.

Carly was often upstairs, hosting friends or talking loudly on the phone. Lexie couldn’t shake the feeling that she was part of some larger game she didn’t understand.

One evening, Carly knocked on the basement door and stepped inside without waiting for an answer.

“I’m heading out,” she said casually. “But there’s some food in the fridge if you’re hungry.” She hesitated, her eyes flicking to Lexie’s growing belly. “You doing okay down here?”

Lexie nodded, though the lump in her throat made it hard to speak.

“Good,” Carly said with a small smile. “Hang in there, Lexie. You’ve got people looking out for you.”

Lexie watched her go, the words echoing in her mind. If only she could believe them.