How many months have you two been together?

Months?

My jumpsuit is itchy as I wiggle back into it after my shower, drying my hair with two men at my sides. The eyes of the other girls are trained on me, their whispers filling the air. All of their voices are low, but I know what they’re saying about me. I’ve heard it all before. At least this nightmare will be behind me in a few hours, according to my lawyer. Maybe my dad’s money finally did me a favor. Maybe I’ll get to prepare for whatever comes next in my own home, rather than behind bars.  

We’re about to head to the common area, to have however much social time they’re allotting us for the day when a guard steps up to us. “Lawrence! You made bail, somehow. Let’s go.” He means me. But my new peers don’t want to accept it. So the room falls silent, even though everyone knows a few want to take a shiv to my neck. I swallow the lump in my throat and try to appear composed because I should be excited- thrilled- that my family was able to help me like this. But I’m not. I’m terrified because I know what’s expected of me… and this is out of line.

How many months have you been together?