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“It’s over Johnny, he took the plea deal. I was so afraid he wouldn’t. Actually, I didn’t know what would happen to be honest. I was just hoping he wouldn’t get out.”

“Thank God.”

“The state prosecutor handed me a card afterward. She said this particular attorney works closely with the Victim Assistance Program and takes on cases like mine pro bono when there’s children involved. I’m going to give them a call when my nerves settle.”

“If he’s going to jail, what do you need them for?”

“Custody.”

“Oh,” he said, feeling stupid. “That makes sense.”

“I was shaking the entire time, I thought I was going to throw up. I don’t know how I did it.”

John stayed silent. “John?”

Clearing his throat, he said, “I’m here … I’m so proud of you, baby. You did well, and on your own.” He added the last part for good measure. John knew she wanted to do it by herself. And she had. If he wasn’t hours away, he would take her in his arms and hold her tight. He would kiss away her fears and shower her with love.

“I can’t believe it. I’m still in shock over it. My knees were rattling together. Have you ever had that happen where you can’t control the shaking? It was so bad,” she whispered. Alyssa was out of breath for no reason other than the adrenaline rush hitting her.

“How much time is he going to get?”

“Five years. Maximum sentence.”

“That’s it! Then he’s free?” John was enraged, his blood boiling. How could someone beat up on a pregnant woman and go free?

“Hey—in five years I plan to be hidden away so well he’ll never find me.”

“Alyssa … you can’t live in fear for the rest of your life.”

“I won’t.”

Not wanting to stress her out even more, he said, “Alright. So tell me about this custody thing. What do I need to do to help you?”

Alyssa softened, tears forming in her eyes. John was too good to be true. “You’ll have to give a sample for the paternity test,” she said hesitantly.

“No problem. Tell me when and where.”

She breathed loudly and closed her eyes. “Thank you.”

“For what?”

She felt so relieved. “I don’t know … Everything? For agreeing to take a test? For letting me sleep in your room? I don’t know, Johnny … just, everything,” she finished with a sigh.

He’d give her anything if she let him. “I’d do anything to help you, you know this.”

“I do …”

“Listen, Alyssa. I’m so proud of you for standing up on your own. I can’t imagine it’s easy in the least. It takes a lot of courage to do what you did.”

Her eyes rolled shut. She felt like a weight had been lifted.

“I need to go, class starts soon, but I should be seeing you soon, okay?”

“Okay.”

“Text me later,” he requested.

Alyssa nodded to herself. “Bye, Johnny.”