Contempt

The following is unedited.

It was an early morning and the rain had just died out. The sun had yet to reveal itself but she could feel its presence creeping up to her. She wrapped her coat around her to hide her small outfit. Her car was parked further up the alley. Her feet felt the splashes of her steps in the warm puddles. Her throat felt raspy as she inhaled the humid air. The hot air was thick and hot, accompanied with uncomfortable wetness. Her high heels and skirt left her legs vulnerable as she walked to her car.

She walks past the building and then another. The second building had its backdoor wide open and the stench of slain met the air. She couldn’t resist listening to the rhythm of water dancing under her as she stepped onward. As she passes a dumpster she hears puddles bouncing behind her with a heavier whim. Startled she looks back. Nothing in sight but the open door she noticed passing through the alleyway and a cat that had just leapt into the dumpster.

Her heart pitched up and her body tensed. Her eyes pierced up and down the path she had taken looking for signs of movement. A hiss came from inside the dumpster. Her eyes widened. The cat’s hissing grew louder until the dumpster banged.

Her legs began to shake. The dumpster banged again and the hissing resumed. She turned away and her body quivered as she walked away.

Bang, Bang, Bang! She looked back and saw the dumpster shaking itself from the inside. The woman’s heart fell to her feet. Eventually managing to pull one leg in front of the other before frantically rushing for her car. She heard the sound of a body escaping the dumpster and splashes filled with contempt approaching her from behind.

She hits the floor and realizes her right heel has failed her, but manages to catch herself quick in panic. She scatters herself to her car and opens it in what feels like a mere second. She shuts the door beside her and closes her eyes. Her heart is pounding and head racing. She takes deep breathes and slowly opens her eyes. The sound of her pulse evaporated as she looked out and saw that there was no sign of danger. She sighs and gets a good look of the dumpster before sighing again. Her sight trails downward and jumps back up to the realization that her high heel had vanished. Time stood still. She gasp was immediately followed with her hand on the ignition to find that the key wasn’t there. The car door swung open and she was struck. She screamed and screamed as the figure grabbed her by the hair and dragged her out of the car. He continued to pull her body by her long hair as she thrashed and hollered in an attempt to break free or at least regain some footing.

But his grip just tightened and her shrieks grew louder. Begs of mercy did not slow the figure nor loosen his guard. Her body became damp and bruised as her body grinds across the hard wet gravel. Before her tears had concealed her sight she saw the backdoor to the building’s kitchen had been closed. She let out one last weak rasp for help before her mind started to drift. The strike her to head and ongoing pain left her slow. Everything was growing dark. She no longer felt the sprain on her ankle or the tugging of her hair. Her breathing thinned and the rasp in her throat cleared away just as the putrid smell of animal meat did. Her senses were forfeiting. The last sound she heard was of a dying cat and its cries that sound so much like a baby’s.

A police car was parked in front of the market. Theo walked toward the entrance with a brisk pace. “Theo!” He turned toward the police vehicle. “Lewis is that you?!” Theo replied with a warm smile. The cop got out of his car “it’s been a long while Theo, it’s great to see you! How’ve you been?” He made his way toward the middle-aged man. “I’ve been fine Lewis” Theo replied in his gruff, calm voice “just getting some groceries real quick before my daughter wakes up.” “Oh how is Chelsea?” “She’s growing up” Theo smiles again, his eyes portraying those of a kind aging man “she’s going to be six soon.” “Really? Has it been that long already!” “Yes it has. And how come you never mentioned coming back home to Ashwick?” Lewis gives a short laugh “I’m sorry Theo, I forgot to mention it last I called. I’m just visiting from the city to help the department here in Ashwick.” “That would’ve been good to know beforehand, I would’ve gotten a bed ready for you.” “You’re too kind Theo but I’m here for business.” Theo gave Lewis a half-smile. “Now come on, I haven’t seen you since Chelsea was left to me as a baby.”

Lewis crossed his arms and gave the ground beside his foot a concerned look. “Well now that’s the thing Theo.” “Hm?” “The case is open again.” Theo’s eyes widened and his mouth slightly hung. “You mean they’ve finally caught ‘em!” Lewis sighed, “no no no. Come sit down with me Theo.” The cop led Theo to a metal bench in front of the market. “Take a seat.” Theo sat. With his arms uncrossed and a quick sigh “The guys back at the department think they’ve figured out who killed Madison.” “Who was it? We’ll both find that bastard ourselves!” Theo’s anger showed. “No can do Theo. I’m close enough to the case as it is. And besides, I need you for something else.” Theo raised his eyebrow “and what’s that?” “I need you to come with me to the station” “You’re taking me in!?” Theo got on his feet.

“Now we both know it wasn’t you Theo but they’re asking for you to come in” Theo turned away, facing the store entrance “Lewis that’s ridiculous! I’m not going in!”  In rebellion he makes his way toward the entrance. “Where are you goin’?” Lewis questioned. “I’m getting the groceries. Then I’m going back home to my daughter” Theo said with rude sternness “Expect to see us when you get home Theo” Lewis’ eyes shot at Theo’s back as he entered the store.

Theo resumed walking briskly into the store. He travels through the aisles and picks up the milk, eggs, flour, and sugar. Chelsea’s birthday was coming up and Theo made it a tradition to make her cake.

“Darn Lewis” Theo whispered under his breath. “Who does he think he is accusing me of killing Maddie?” He searched the aisles looking for candles for the cake. His eyes wandered to the right of his sight “I haven’t seen Maddie in years.” Theo finds the candles hanging on the metal and shuffles them aside to find one with the number six. “She used to take care of my baby when I wasn’t around” he finds the candle and puts it in his basket.

He wanders toward the deli area where he spots the large, round butcher and waves. “I didn’t see her for months before she was killed” Theo’s thoughts lightly escape his breath.

“Good morning Pete.” “The usual Theo?” said the bald butcher. “You know me” they exchange familiar smiles. Pete started collecting the meat. “Hey Pete, you remember Maddie?” “Who?” Pete replied as he laid the meat and drew his knife. “Maddison. The woman who was killed behind this market a few years ago.” Pete laid the edge of his butcher’s knife through the meat and into the platform. He sighed “Yes, I remember” he looked downward at raw creature. “Well the police have opened up the case again. They think they’ve figured out who’s done it” “What?” “Yeah, I was just asked to be taken in and knowing how much trouble they gave you at the time I thought it’d be fit to warn you” Theo’s concern wore his voice. Pete groaned “Well thanks for the warning.”

“No problem Petey. So how’s business been?” “Oh well you know how it is. It’s been better.” Theo laughs “The meat’s not like it was. I remember when many people would come for those savory cuts. Whatever happened?” Pete bagged Theo’s meat and handed it to him. “You know it ain’t the same meat from before” he retorted.

“Well thanks Pete I’ll see you around.” Pete nodded his head. Theo took his things to the register and as he paid he saw Lewis enter the market in his peripheral vision. Lewis was making his way toward the direction Theo just came from. Frustration gathered from under his skin as he whispered “Damn Lewis”.

Theo gathered his bags and snatched the receipt before heading towards the door. He continued walking in a fast pace even with both hands occupied with groceries. Following the sidewalk he turned on the corner and took notice of the theater that was approaching on his right.

Theo opened the door. He looked into his apartment from the entrance. He could hear the television. He walks slowly into the living room where he finds Chelsea in her crib on the farthest wall from the television. He looks into the crib to find his daughter sleeping peacefully on her back. He walks toward the television and turns it off. Silence fills the room.

Fueled with anger Theo kicks the television and throws it to the side. It breaks as it crashes the floor. Theo walks over to his broken recliner and sits. His elbows on his lap, his head face down, he begins to scratch his head profusely. “AAAGGHH!” He gets up from the seat and pushes it over. He approaches the wall and kicks it as if it were to tumble over. He continues kicking it furiously as if it had done him wrong.

Panting heavily he looks at the crib. The baby has started crying. He walks up to it and lays his hands on the crib.

Theo made it to the front of the theater where a man, with a curly mustache and hair, who had just exited crossed his path. Both men make eye contact and Theo recognizes the man’s face. “Oh god, it’s this guy” he said in a low tone. “Theo!” Theo recognized the actor as his name was called out in delight. “What do you want!?” Theo said with abrupt attitude. “My my, you still haven’t lost your angst now have you old fellow” Theo gave the man a look with disgust.

“Why don’t you remember me? Ah, I suppose it has been many a moons since we’ve last crossed paths. In that time I feel as if many petals have bloomed in the wake of-“ Theo continued looking at the man as if he were an idiot. His eyes traced the man’s apparel. Mocking the actor within his thoughts. Criticizing his theatrical voice and demeanor. His thoughts teasing how this man’s passion has driven him to wear old French clothing with a clothed hat holding onto a feather. Theo couldn’t even look this man in the eye, focusing his attention to the length of the man’s nose. “-but enough of that! I hear the police are back on the trail of the killer of our dear Madison.” The actor got Theo’s attention “How do you know that?”

“But of course they came by the theater to ask questions. Oh! She was such a talented one!” “So I heard.” “Oh yes, I remember. She could’ve become such a great actress. My troupe and I had told her the evening before she was found.” “She did love coming to this place a lot.” “Yes she did.” “Oh you must miss her fondly! I must say, I recall she had such exemplary skill when it came to the bluest of scenes!” The actor smiled, the fondness of his memory fueled his excitement. ‘Quite outstanding she was! Oh if only she were here now!”

The tips of Theo’s mouth pointed downward. “Oh old friend I sincerely apologize!” The actor’s concern was true. Theo brushed past the man and continued walking “I best be getting back home.” “Sir, I didn’t mean to pain you… Just play through the sadness with eloquence just as she did!” He yelled in good thought. Without turning back Theo shook his head “No thanks! I just gotta head back home to my daughter!”

“You’re daughter?” The actor said with a confused look.

“You just can’t keep leaving like this! We have a child!” “You can’t make me stay! It’s been my dream to act!” “We have a family now!” “And I love her too, you know that! But that shouldn’t mean I have to quit my dream! “Who’s going to look after her while I’m at work!” “I still look after her!” “Not all the time! Not when you leave her here and head off to..to that clownfest!” “She’s sound asleep when I leave her!” “She shouldn’t be left alone to begin with!”

Theo lashes out and breaks the table in front of the television.

“We’re not even married! You can’t tell me what to do!” “I shouldn’t have to! You should be here for your child!” “Screw you! I am here for my child!”

Theo kicks off the reclining part of his chair.

“NO! YOU KNOW WHAT! GO!”

He walks up to Madison and grabs her by her shoulders. “GO AND LEAVE YOUR CHILD!”

“STOP SAYING THAT YOU PRICK”

Theo throws her to the floor. She looks at him in complete disbelief.

She picks herself up and makes for the door. Her eyes filled with tears.

“I’m going! And one day I’m coming back to get Chelsea!”

“THE HELL YOU ARE!”

“You’re a danger to my daughter!”

Theo stands in front of the crib.

“GET THE FUCK OUT!”

The door slams shut.

Theo opened the door. “I’m home Chelsea!” He walks into the living room and finds her sitting in front of the television. He walks up to her and kisses the top of her head. “I got the stuff for your cake and I got your favorite meat too” Theo headed to the kitchen and laid out everything he bought. “I know how much you love your birthday cake” he says in a loving, kindly voice. “I even got that meat that reminds you of your mom.” He begins bringing out bowls and pans. “I know, I know, you want her to come, but you know she can’t. She’s in a better place now, and even she could we both know she couldn’t walk”.

He stops searching for the pots and pans and goes back into the living room. “There there Chelsea” he says comfortingly, “let me put on those cartoons for you.” He grabs the remote and clicks.

He places down the remote and sits on his chair. “So tell me hun, what would you like for your birthday?” he asks curiously, “now honey you know mommy can’t be here. She left us so that she could be an actress.” He stares at her back. “Please don’t be like that.”

…

“Tell you what hun! You’re mother wore these little outfits and fancy shoes after she left. I remember finding one of her shoes a long time ago in when I found her car out in an alley. I’ll get you clothes like hers for your birthday! Would that make you happy?”

“Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you! Happy Birthday dear Chelsea! Happy Birthday to you!” Theo and Lewis sing to the baby.

“Thanks for coming Lewis.” “No problem Theo” Lewis said. “No I mean it, it’s been hard since I’ve been left with Chelsea” “Whatever happened to her mother?” “She just left the baby here one day” Theo retorted. “How about that nice Madison girl you were seeing?” Theo shifted his eyes to the right. “She left for personal reasons.” “Really? She seemed like a nice girl.” “She was. She used to take good care of Chelsea when I would work” Theo said with his mouth covered “but these past few months I’ve been leaving Chelsea alone so I could work” he stroked the bottom of his nose.

“That’s dangerous Theo.” “I know, but I’ve got to put food on the table.” “Speaking of food on the table, did you make this cake yourself?” Theo laughed “Yes sir I did!” “Ain’t half bad.” “My co-worker gave me some pointers.” “Hah! A butcher knows how to whip up a cake!” “Yes sir he does.” They exchange laughs. “So how is it working with meat at the butcher’s?” Theo takes a bite from his cake. “It ain’t hard. But Petey has been looking for a new sort of meat to give to the customers, so I aim on helpin’ him out” They both take a bit from their cakes. Chelsea coos.

“Well how about you Lewis? How’s work?” “Now that you mention it I do gotta leave soon. I’m heading to the big city and I don’t know when I’m comin’ back to Ashwick.” “You always were someone to give big news late” Theo smiled, “you better make this late news up to me.” Lewis gave a hearty laugh, “Of course Theo! In fact, I’ll give you a call every now and again.” “Now I’ll hold you on that. Don’t make me go find you.” “Hahaha, I will Theo, no worries.” They both stand up and head for the door.

“Thanks for comin’ Lewis” Theo says as Lewis steps out into the hall. “He’s smilin’ down lookin’ at you right now Lewis.” Lewis turns around. “Maybe” he smiles, “but he’s always wanted grandkids. I’m sure Pop is proud of you too Theo.” The two hug.

As Lewis leaves Theo shuts the door.

A knock on the door. “Oh Chelsea! Do you remember Uncle Lewis? He was here on your very first birthday!” … “Here, you’ll see him right now.” Theo walks up to the door. Knocks.

Theo opens the door. Lewis is accompanied by an officer. “Hello brother! It’s good to see you again! Come come, look how much Chelsea has grown!” Theo opens the door and lets the two men in.

The smell of rot intrudes their nostrils. Lewis and the officer exchange looks. As they walk in they notice the dirty carpet. They step further in. The officer steps into the kitchen and sees big moldy lumps on the tiled floor. Each lump carrying numbers from two to five. The rotten smell of meat coming from a corner.

Meanwhile, Lewis steps into the living room. His being is struck. The sense of time has come to a crawl. He sees a smashed table between the cracked television and broken recliner. A cradle that has been untouched by everything but termites and age. And a figure sitting in front of the table facing the broken screen.

He approaches the figure. His mind begging that his eyes deceive him. He stops aside the false being. Her hair made of yarn. A face of plastic. A fake smile.

“What… the… hell..?” Lewis gasped.

He reached over to the hollow being. Lewis was about to touch it.

He felt something creep up from behind. As he turned around he felt a strike to his cheek.

“DON’T YOU FUCKING TOUCH HER!” Theo cried.

The officer promptly made his way to the living room and pulled out his firearm.

“Freeze! If you move I will shoot!” yelled the officer.

“Stand down!” commanded Lewis.

“IF YOU TOUCH HER AGAIN I WILL HURT YOU!” Theo kicked the television back into the wall, revealing a cloud of dirt and dust.

“I’m not going to touch her Theo.” Lewis said calmly. But the look of fear was in his eyes. Theo got into his Lewis’ face and looked him directly in his eyes. Theo had a grimacing look that twitched with contempt. The officer got behind Theo and pulled out cuffs. Theo immediately attacked the cop.

“Theo stop!” Lewis screamed. Theo turned and Lewis knocked him out with the butt of his gun.

She left me with the baby. My poor baby is home alone right now. She could be crying. She could be hungry. She said I was a danger to our child. I’m the one working the night shift. She said she’d come back for Chelsea. She said she’d take my baby. B..b.but I..I c..c.an’t l.let h..h.her d.d..d.do th..that.

Pete just asked me to take out the bad meat to the dumpster before I close up shop. Wait… there’s her car. She might try and take my daughter when she’s done. I can’t let her do that… I’m shaking. I c..c.an’t l.let h..h.her d.d..d.do th..that.

She will die before – shit! There she is. I’ll toss this garbage out. Crap, I don’t think she can see me from here. There she is. Where the fuck does she think she’s going! I better follow her and make sure she isn’t trying to get Chelsea.

Fuck I’m making too much noise. Quick, I need to hide in here. I’m sure she didn’t see me. Agh this fucking cat! Get out of my sight! Don’t fucking hiss at me! I will snap that fucking neck of yours! FUCK YOU! I! WILL! BREAK! EVERY! PART! OF YOUR! BODY!

FUCK! SHE”S RUNNING! Piece of shit! That’s right, fall! Kick this piece of shit out of the way! Dumb bitch forgot her keys in the door. NOW SHE CAN’T TAKE MY DAUGHTER FROM ME!

YOU! WILL! NEVER! TAKE! HER! FROM! ME!

How dare you run from me!

I can hear my baby crying! SHE KNEW YOU WERE TRYING TO TAKE HER FROM ME YOU BITCH!

LET’S SEE HOW YOU DO WITHOUT YOUR LEGS!!

Pete wanted to try some new meat.

By Richard Alba, 12.25.13