Chapter 32
SKYLAR
I learn moredetails sitting through the conference than I thought I would, and I wonder if that’s another reason why Vincent suggested I come.
Even if I was too nervous to speak, I would still be caught up with the scope of the investigations.
For how horrible everything has been, things are almost looking…good.
There have been undercover busts, numerous arrests, and still not one death of any Omegas.
Landon gives a statement, summarizing the work that the Bureau has done with Isleton police.
He takes questions from the press, answering in a professional, firm tone.
If I wasn’t about to pass out from nerves, I would find it extremely attractive.
Finally, it’s my turn.
As I stand, I hear the clicking of cameras as I make my way to the podium. I pass by Landon, Vincent, and River, who stand to the side as I head to the microphone.
Landon advised me to look at the back of the room and ignore people in the front rows.
Still, I chance a glance and want to run screaming.
The reporters watch me, anticipation on their face. The cameras are turned on me.
The room is far too crowded, and the lights are hot.
But I find a blonde head of hair in the back of the room and lock eyes with Devyn, who smiles. Tammy gives me a subtle nod, and I take in a breath.
Then, I speak.
I didn’t think I would tell the whole story—but once I start talking; the words don’t stop tumbling out of me. I describe my interactions with John in detail, including the times I would slip in and out of consciousness, convinced that he would kill me by accident.
Most of the reporters keep a straight face as I tell the story. But one flinches, and it’s enough for me to know that my words have an impact.
So, I keep going.
Once I’m done with my experiences, I mention April. I direct my words to Tammy as I speak about my best friend, the circumstances of her disappearance, and how I know she’s still out there, desperate to be found.
I plead my case to the cameras, looking down the black lenses as I tell whoever has her to let her come home.
I tell her that I love her, and I’ll never stop fighting or looking for her.
I speak until I have nothing left to say.
My ears are ringing by the time I’m ushered off the podium and into a back room. I collapse onto the closest couch I find and take in short, ragged breaths.
“Skylar?”
There’s not enough air in the room. My hands are numb.
“Skylar?”
It’s too hot. I need to go outside, I need?—
“Skylar.”
I look up to see River sitting next to me, his green eyes wide with concern.
“Skylar. You’re safe. You’re safe,” he repeats, his voice gentle. “It’s you and me. No one else.”
I don’t realize I’m crying until he wipes a tear from my face. “You did it,” he continues. “It’s done.”
“I can’t be here any longer,” I whisper. “Please. Take me out of here.”
But the press conference isn’t done. I don’t even know if River is able to leave.
“Okay,” he says, taking my shaking hands into his. “Where do you want to go?”
“H-home,” I stutter. “Please.”
His spicy scent envelops me as he cradles my head to his chest. I breathe him in, tears falling down my cheeks as I silently cry.
“You’re safe,” he repeats, rocking me gently. “You’re safe.”
I don’t even remember getting into his car.
I barely register stepping through my front door and collapsing into River’s arms as I sob.