I'm Not Worried About My Husband

Eighteen months ago, I started jogging. I started with just walking, of course, until I built up my stamina. I always take the same route, through my subdivision, through the neighboring streets, down by the river, and circle back to my own home. It’s about 4 miles and takes me more or less an hour. I could go faster, I suppose, but the longer time away suits me.

I’ve lost about 12 pounds this way, and I can see the difference when I look in the mirror every morning when I start my day. I’ve become one of those people who wakes up at 4 am and gets moving right away. I’m back from my run before most people are even awake. I like it that way. I have time to shower and get breakfast ready for my husband before he goes to work. His attorney’s salary affords me to stay home and take care of our daughter and two Pomeranians, as well as keep up with my own appearance. That’s part of why I started jogging – I want to look better for him. I’d hate to lose his attention.

Two days ago, I was taking my normal route, listening to a podcast when I saw red and blue lights ahead. It was several officers with what appeared to be some type of barricade by the river, closer to the water. I took out my earbuds and slowed down, hoping to snoop a little bit.

From what I could see, there was what must have been a body bag. I recognized a reporter from the nearest big city, mentioning the word “body” and I knew what I was witnessing. I continued back home.

This morning when I returned from my run, I flipped on the news. They were covering the identification of the young woman found, a recently missing secretary at a local law firm. My husband’s law firm. I know he knew her. He talked about her, more than I cared for. I’m sure she was nice enough. Very fit, the type to have a smoothie for lunch.

The river by my usual route has been closed off, an awful lot of officers there. I continue my morning jogs, though.

I’ve listened to enough true crime podcasts to know: they always notice if you change your routine after. You have to do it in advance.