The Fatal Fall

Prologue

Prologue

November 1928

I LOOK AT MYSELF IN the mirror, wearing a light blue dress with the beading I love so much. I think this one will have to do. All the others I’ve tried are simply too tight.

We’re getting out just in time, because it’s getting impossible to hide my secret anymore. My husband is never around, so I’m not worried about him noticing. But my friends have already commented that I’ve gained weight the last few months. I’ve laughed and told them it’s because of our new cook. But I think a couple of them suspect the truth.

I hope none of them mention it to my husband.

I look at the time. He’s already waiting for me.

No luggage, he said. We can’t arouse suspicion. We’ll buy everything we need when we get to wherever we’re going.

A new life together, away from here. Away from my husband, his wife.

I know it’s a grave sin. I know I’m going to hell. I know it makes no sense.

But I look down at my ever-expanding stomach, and know I have no choice.

I put on my green coat—it’s chilly outside, plus I need it to hide my shame—and walk to my dressing table. Opening the jewelry box, I grab a few things and stuff them in my pockets. I’m still wearing the locket my husband gave me as an engagement present.

I look at my wedding band. It symbolizes the vow I'm breaking. But my love said to keep it on, since it would support the lies we’re going to tell.

Turning, I grab my green cloche hat and set it on my head. Looking at myself in the mirror, I take a deep breath.

“You can do this,” I whisper. “It’s not that much longer.”

I turn around and march out of my bedroom without looking back.