Wanted by Her Lost Love

ThreeRyan mounted the steps to Kelly’s apartment,grimacing as he took in the missing handrail and theshaky stairs. It was a wonder she hadn’t alreadyfallen down them. He wasn’t entirely expecting to findher home, but he’d stopped in at the diner in caseshe’d gone to work, only to be told by a surly mannamed Ralph that she wasn’t there.It annoyed him that her door wasn’t locked. Hepushed it open to find her on her hands and knees,peering under the rickety recliner. She made asound of frustration and then pushed herself upward.“What the hell are you doing?”She shrieked and whirled around. “Get out!”He held out a placating hand. “I’m sorry Ifrightened you. Your door was unlocked.”“And so you thought you’d just come on in? Didthe art of knocking escape you? Get a clue, Ryan. Idon’t want you here.” She went into the kitchen,opening and shutting cabinets, obviously looking forsomething.