SHORTS FROM THE SHELF features short serialized fiction by author Shannon Muir, administrator of SHANNON MUIR’S THE PULP AND MYSTERY SHELF, that may be later released as part of e-book or print collections. The story line featured currently is “Give Me Another LaChance,” which will run over the next eight consecutive days. This is Part Six.

The woman who gave birth to and raised Rikah started to cry.

“You’re right. I don’t know who she really is. I was just too afraid of what would happen if I didn’t do what I was told. But I do care about her.”

Rowan tried to think of what to say next. It was a challenge to be tactful.

“I suspect that same fear would keep you from coming back with me and giving a statement.”

She just nodded her head on the affirmative.

“Hopefully my bosses will believe me and save Rikah. That’s all I can promise, but you may not even care that much.”

He turned and walked away, getting in his car and driving back to tell his boss what he found.

On the drive,  he thought over all he’d been through with Rikah. He’d been entranced by her the moment he met her. Now, he felt her current predicament to be partially his own doing. He owed her so much, and Rowan vowed in his heart to make things right, no matter the personal cost.