Chapter 5

As he pulled the zipper shut, his hands shook violently.

I saw a hot tear drop onto the black plastic bag, disappearing instantly into the dark material.

Was that a tear?

David, are you crying for me?

I wanted so badly to ask him, but I was just a silent spirit.

Like a thief in the night, he hoisted the "trash bag" onto his shoulder and carried it to the backyard, walking toward the large maple tree.

This had been Lily's favorite spot. She used to love playing on the swing set here.

David began to dig, one shovel of dirt at a time.

The night was deep and quiet. The only sound was the muffled "thud" of the shovel slicing into the damp earth.

His movements were clumsy and strained.

Sweat soaked his dress shirt, clinging to his back and outlining his tired, slouched shoulders.

He had once been a sharp, successful businessman. But in the last three years, he had aged decades.

Finally, a deep pit was ready.

He gently lowered the black bag into the earth.

But when he raised the shovel to throw the first pile of dirt back in, he stopped.

He knelt by the edge of the pit and lit a cigarette. The tiny red ember glowed in the darkness, illuminating his tortured, twisted face.

"Chloe," he finally spoke, his voice incredibly cracked. "Don't hate me... I had no choice... Victoria... she can't take any more shock."

"Do this for the family. For me and Victoria. Just... rest in peace. I hope you find peace in your next life, and get a better family next time. Don't come back to us."

He inhaled the entire cigarette in one long drag, then crushed the butt into the dirt, as if extinguishing the last spark of guilt in his heart.

Then, he began to shovel the dirt back in frantically. Shovel after shovel, until the pit was completely filled, burying me and every trace of my existence deep beneath the dark earth.

He even transplanted a patch of sod from another part of the yard, patting it down until the grave looked completely invisible.

When it was over, he collapsed onto the grass, panting heavily.

I floated among the branches of the maple tree, watching him silently.

I didn't feel anger. I didn't feel hatred.

Only a vast, endless sorrow.

So, my death really was a relief to them.

I was the most unwanted piece in this household.

Maybe this was for the best.

Now that I was dead, Victoria wouldn't scream at the sight of me, and David wouldn't have to choose sides anymore.

Was my sin finally paid for?