STORY-Jan BRYN

I could not get Stella out of my mind, nor the fate of her little girl. I constantly rehearsed what had happened that day. In fact, I rehearsed the case as a whole, going into every action, the nook and crannies of life, from the time I received the contract to the moment I plunged the knife into her neck.

The following day I received an email indicating in the usual oblique fashion that a new contract was on its way. Consequently, I walked into town, opening the safe box I used in such eventualities. I was always cautious of course, constantly looking to see whether I was followed, but in truth its unlikely that the authorities knew of my existance let alone my occupation. Nevertheless, it didn't hurt to be careful.

I opened the safety box and withdrew the white envelope it contained. I immediately locked the box again. I sought a nearby coffee shop, one I didn't normally use, and opened the envelope, taking out its contents. Sipping my over-expensive coffee, I slowly went through each page. My next victim differed little from previous ones, middle-aged, male, rich, powerful and anonymous. The price on this one was 20 grand. Enough, I thought, for the holiday Julie craved.

"Not enough." A small voice said from behind me.

Startled, I quickly turned around finding myself staring down at a small girl who possessed the most knowing eyes I have ever seen on a 4 year old.

"My mother was worth more than that."

Looking at her pale face, I had a sudden if uncertain recognition.

"Do I know you little girl, and where is your mother?"

"Where you left her."

"What?" I replied noticing that people were now watching me oddly.

"In our flat. On the kitchen floor."

"Sorry?" My face was now as pale as hers.

"No one visited us. She is still there, decomposing."

I wondered how a child of her age could possibly know such a term, or understand it.

"I am too. In the bedroom. I couldn't get out. I couldn't find food or anything to drink."

"Who are you, little girl?" I now asked, confused and frightened.

"Stella's daughter." She responded quickly. "You killed us."

I made a rumbling noise, involuntarily expressing my horror.

"You alright, mate?"

A man a few tables away from me asked, looking concerned.

"Something wrong?" He continued.

"No," I replied, finishing my coffee and rushing out into the street.

I turned, searching the vicinity, but there was no more sign of her.