Contents
Chapter 74
Overview
Roxanne warns Elsie that Shane reappeared at 4 AM, demanded reconciliation, and reacted with rage when refused. He invoked Persephone to hurt Roxanne, raising immediate danger. Police offer little help, leaving protection to vigilance. Elsie promises to safeguard Persephone but feels powerless against the renewed threat.
Summary
On her porch, Elsie is interrupted by Roxanne, who looks exhausted and unsettled. Roxanne explains she encountered Shane waiting outside her home after a late shift. He asked to reunite, revealing his desire to reassert control after their separation.
When Roxanne refused, Shane erupted in rage, belittling her and warning she would be sorry. Although he did not harm her then, Roxanne recalls a prior gun threat before she left him, underscoring the seriousness of his volatility and history of intimidation.
Crucially, Shane mentioned Persephone despite having shown no prior interest in the child, signaling he may target her to hurt Roxanne. Roxanne reported the incident to police, but they only advised calling emergency services if he returns, providing no proactive protection.
Elsie pledges to keep Persephone safe during her care nights and urges Roxanne to prioritize safety, but Roxanne insists she has limited options and must face reality. The conversation leaves Elsie confronting her own limits: she feels useless and powerless, newly burdened by the responsibility of protecting Roxanne and especially Persephone.
Who Appears
- Elsie “Mabel”Protagonist; hears Roxanne’s warning, vows to protect Persephone, and feels powerless against Shane’s threat.
- RoxannePersephone’s mother; rejects Shane’s return, reports his threats, and warns Elsie he may target Persephone.
- ShaneAbusive ex-partner; returns enraged after rejection, previously threatened with a gun, now references Persephone to hurt Roxanne.
- PersephoneRoxanne’s daughter; potentially targeted by Shane; sleeps at Elsie’s several nights each week.