Page 103 of Exile

Vivian's eyebrows knit together. "What do you mean?"

"They are trying to figure out what to do with all of us. And given some of the initial findings from Lilydale, they might be allowing appeals so our sentences can be adjusted. Otherwise, it's putting pressure on the facilities to accommodate everyone. So, some of us might go free."

"Free?" I repeat. "But we all have mental health disorders. How would that work?"

Eliana shrugs. "I'm only speculating of course, but some may end up staying here. Voluntarily or involuntarily. I'm not sure. There's a lot of things to work out apparently. It's going to take some time."

My heart sinks. "How much time?"

"Probably months," Vivian sighs. "Nothing gets done quickly in the legal system. I waited six months before I even had my trial."

Six months…

I don't know if I can last six months.

Siobhan grumbles. "No one will let me go. Besides, where would I even go? I got no family, no money."

"Whatever is meant to happen, will happen. Life always works out," I say, earning a glare from the three of them.

"Argh," Vivian groans. "Stop being chirpy and optimistic, Avery. It's gross," she jokes.

"I'd be happy too if I was getting dicked down by three guys," Siobhan says.

Eliana's eyes light up. "Did it ever happen… you know… at the same time?"

"What?" I laugh awkwardly. "How did this turn into a discussion about my sex life?"

"Oh, it so did," Vivian snorts. "It's written all over your face."

"Shut up," I snap, but end up laughing with the rest of them.

Siobhan leans back, folding her hands behind her head. "I'd maybe… stay here for a bit if I got offered the choice," she admits.

"What?" Vivian gawks at her. "You would stay in a facility?"

"Maybe," she shrugs. "I dunno. I'd want to…maybeget better."

There's uncertainty and embarrassment in her tone, but I can't help but smile, nodding at her. "I want to get better too," I chime in. "We all deserve to heal."

"Yeah, we do," Eliana agrees. "It will take time, but we'll get there."

Vivian stays quiet, staring at the ceiling in thought. I lean over, placing my hand on her forearm.

"You're a good person, Vee. You get to call the shots for your life now."

She looks at me warily. "I really am sorry, Avery. For everything."

"Me too," I breathe out in relief at the mended gap between us, squeezing her arm.

"We're not hugging though," Vivian snorts, looking over at Siobhan, amused. "I draw the toxic positivity line at physical affection. This one sleepwalks and near spooned me to death last night."

Chapter 38

Avery

** Six Weeks Later **

“All rise for the Honorable Judge Shannon Sherwood.”