Page 76 of Magnetic God

“Senator? Are you there?”

“Still here, darling. Just taking a sip. A bit of liquid courage, you see.”

“I don’t understand, sir.”

He exhales. “I have it on good authority that you’re planning Grant Carter’s upcoming wedding, which is ludicrous. The man isn’t even seeing anyone. But I know that bastard, and he’ll do whatever it takes to win, even getting married.” There’s another pause. “If you take him on as a client, I will ruin you.”

Ice courses through my veins, but I don’t take shit from anyone. Period.

“First, all of my calls are recorded, which you were made aware of before I answered. Second, you do not get to tell me who I can or can’t have as a client.”

I don’t add that I haven’t heard from Grant Carter or his people, mostly because it’s none of his business.

He laughs. “It’s all in who you know. You think this is the first recorded phone call I’ve been on that will go away? Check after we hang up. You’ll find nothing but static. And you’ll listen to me if you’re smart. This isn’t some game where I say I’ll ruin you, but not back it up. I know everything about you, Hannah Foster. How you slept with Brooks Henderson while he was married years ago. How he was seen leaving your house after the gala a few days ago. I think the media would like to know that America’s most sought-after wedding planner is fucking one of her clients.” He laughs again. “Now, do we have an understanding?”

His words have sent me into shock. How does he know that Brooks was at my house? Unless I’m being followed. Unease creeps up my spine. Would I even know if someone was tailing me?

“Ms. Foster.”

His words snap me into the present.

“Yes, Senator. I understand.”

I end the call and grab my bag. For the first time since I’ve been here, I don’t feel safe.

Outside, I get into my SUV, looking around. There’s no one there that I can see, but I still can’t shake the feeling that I’m being watched. Is it safe to go to Jess’? Should I call and cancel?

My phone rings as if I’ve summoned her. I answer as I back out of my parking spot.

“Hello?”

“Please tell me you’re on your way. This baby is being extra clingy, and Momma is ready to get it on.”

“I’m on my way. I had a weird call from a client and it kind of has me freaked out about bringing Jeffie to my house.”

“Weird how?”

I give her the short version, leaving out Senator Ryans’ name.

“Yikes. That is scary.” She pauses. “I have a great idea!”

“Do I even want to ask?”

“Our new neighbor is a cop or used to be before he got injured on the job. I’m sure he wouldn’t mind staying with you here while Matt and I go out.”

“I thought the whole point of me watching the baby was so you could get it on.”

“Girl, we’ve become creative these days. Don’t you worry about us.”

“If you’re sure? And I don’t want the neighbor to feel obligated.”

“He won’t. I’ll have Matt text him right now.”

“Does the mystery neighbor have a name?”

“Gabe Ferrums.”

“Well, I’ll head that way and you can let me know what he says when I get there.”

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