Page 64 of Save Me

It takes her a beat before she regains control over herself and replies, “This place hired me as a manager.” She motions toward the fast-food restaurant behind us.

“But you left McGruder’s soon after Erika died.”

“I-I’m sorry about her death, but I don’t have anything to say.” She looks over her shoulder at me.

There’s sincerity in her eyes when she mentions Erika. And fear.

Nicole gets in the car and slams the door shut.

I tap on the glass and motion for her to roll down the window. She hesitates but eventually does.

“Did you enjoy working at the chain owned by Sebastian Blackmon? How’s he to work for? Have you ever met him?”

She stares out of the windshield. Her hands tighten around the steering wheel.

“I-I’ve never met him.” Her voice shakes.

“I don’t mean to cause you distress.” I dig into the pocket of my jeans. “Here’s my business card.”

I extend my hand to give her the card. She just stares at it.

“I don’t know what Blackmon and his company are hiding, but I intend to find out—for Erika and anyone else whom this company’s actions may hurt.

“I'll be here when you’re ready to tell me what’s happening. Use that number any time. I’ll pick up.”

Her bottom lip trembles as she slowly reaches out to take the card from me. She doesn’t say anything, and I don’t expect her to at this moment.

“Call anytime,” I repeat.

It’s nearly imperceptible, but I notice it when she nods. I don’t say anything as I step away. Nicole starts her car and slowly pulls out of the parking space. She doesn’t look at me again, but I remain there.

She has something to tell me, and I’m certain whatever it is, it’s linked to Erika Dalton’s death.

I head back to my car. The first thing I do is check my phone.

There are two text messages from Dae. Yes, I’ve ignored his messages over the last few hours even though it makes my stomach muscles clench with longing that I’m loath to admit. I can’t make myself available at his beck and call.

I’ll respond to him when I have time. For now, I plan to head back to the office for a few more hours to research Blackmon’s company finances and the church he attends.

CHAPTER 19

Dae

I frown as I stare at my phone. According to the spyware I installed on her phone, Kennedy’s still at work.

It’s close to six o’clock. For the past two days, she hasn’t responded to my calls or texts. At first, I told myself it was because she was busy. Then, I legitimately thought maybe she was injured. But all it took was one look at the app to know she’s well.

She’s gone to work as usual, had lunch with her mother yesterday, and stopped by her cousin-in-law’s art gallery this afternoon. Presumably for lunch as well.

That leads me to believe she’s intentionally ignoring my calls, claiming to be busy only when it comes to me.

She’s running. Our closeness scares the hell out of her. As a woman who values her independence, it’s frightening to see how quickly she’s falling for me.

A slow grin tips the corners of my mouth.

“Mr. Kim, right this way,” the host of Blackmon’s signature restaurant, Le Vie, says, capturing my attention.

I shove my phone in my pocket and follow him inside. As we pass through, I survey the main dining area of the restaurant. A handful of couples and a few people are seated alone.

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