Page 31 of Sacred Vow

It’s the one thing that kept her safe directly after it all went down.

“You still don’t remember?”

“I remember the funeral.”

“Yes. But the day it happened? The day after?” I prod around the edges. I don’t want to trigger the memory. It’s better if she never opens that portal. If she blocks it out for the rest of her life, it’s better for her.

She moves her eyes away from me, concentrating. After a long moment, she brings back her gaze. It’s filled with confusion.

“No. I don’t remember those days,” she says. “You know that, but I don’t understand how me not remembering something can put me in danger.”

Damn Craig.

“Those men last night, the ones who thought they recognized you?”

“Yeah?”

“They are probably telling other people that they saw Craig Madson’s sister. And when word gets around to those that want the information you can’t remember, they’ll come looking for you.”

“Because I know something that I can’t remember?” She squishes her lips together. “But I don’t remember.” Her frustration comes out in her tone.

“You’ve been going around town trying to remember, Izzy. They’re going to take that as a threat. And they’re going to want to make you remember because they’ll think it benefits them.”

“I wasn’t asking anyone anything. I stayed low. The only reason to worry about those guys last night is because you brought me there.” She points at me.

“And this morning?”

“I didn’t ask him anything.”

“But he recognized you. Craig went to that shop weekly. A lot of times with you.”

“Right. That’s why I went. Do you have any idea how frustrating it is to have a chunk of your life just missing? The last time I saw Craig is lost up here somewhere.” She touches her temple. “I don’t care what sort of underhanded shit he was into; I just want my memories back.”

“I’m trying to protect you here, Izzy.” I look away for a beat, then back to her. “You have to stop trying to trigger things that your mind wants to stay buried. Which means no more work. You’re done there.”

“I need a job,” she argues.

“The diner you work at is owned by Antonio Baratone. He’s close with the men who would love to know you’re back in town. Antonio doesn’t run his businesses; most of them are just bullshit for him to put on his tax returns. So, he probably hasn’t seen your name on the payroll. If he had, I’m pretty sure you wouldn’t have been around in order to waltz into my club.”

“Do you know what it is? What they think I know?”

I shake my head. “No. I think Craig told you something, gave you information, but it’s lost.” I tap her temple. “Up here. And honestly, Izzy, I want it to stay that way. But I need to straighten shit out so you’re safe before you can go walking around Chicago free as a bird.”

“Maybe it’s better if I remember. Then I can at least make a deal with them or something. Or I’ll be able to prove I don’t know anything.” She sits up, adjusting her position as her ass rubs against the bedding.

“How would they know if you’re lying or not?” I ask.

“Then it doesn’t sound like there’s any way for me to win here.” She pushes her lips together.

“There’s a way. We’ll talk more about it later.” I squeeze her hand. “Get some sleep. You were up early.” I move to my feet.

“I’m not going back to Nebraska.” There it is again, the stubbornness. “I’m not going anywhere. I’m staying right here.” She points to the floor as if to mark the spot she’s taking her stand.

“Later,” I say.

“No. Now.” She throws off the blankets and slides off the bed. “This is my life, Andrei. I’m not letting you or anyone else dictate what happens in it.”

“I vowed to keep you safe. That’s what I’m going to do.”

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