Page 78 of Magnetic God

While I was running from a broken heart, Peter was serving our country, where he made the greatest sacrifice. Jess and her family were understandably devastated. His death is actually what brought me back to Texas. I came for the funeral and then stayed because Jess needed me.

“I didn’t mean to bring up sad memories. He was in the same unit as my brother, which is how I knew him.”

“What a small world.”

“That’s what I said, too.”

We fall into easy conversation as I cook. Gabe is charming but doesn’t make me feel ill at ease once.

We’re sitting at the table when he asks, “Want to tell me the name of the man who threatened you tonight?”

The look on his face is sincere, but there’s a hard glint in his eyes that lets me know he means business.

I exhale. “It’s a long story.”

“I’m a good listener.” His gaze softens. “But I want you to feel comfortable telling me. If you don’t trust me, then at least promise you’ll tell Matt.”

Finally, I say, “It was Senator Ryans. I’m not sure if he’s having me followed or what, but he knew things that happened recently. Personal things.”

Gabe nods. “Thank you for trusting me, Hannah. Believe me when I say you have nothing to worry about. Not from him.”

For some reason, I believe him.

“Thank you for saying that.”

Gabe gestures to his plate. “Now, let’s eat. I’m starved.”

Smiling, I pick up my fork. It’s strange, but I already feel better. And once Brooks gets back, I’m going to let him know about the threat Senator Ryans made. No more secrets ever again.

21

Gabriel

Hannah yawns, leaning back against the couch.

Stupid little lamb.

Baby Jeff is fast asleep in her arms, making this feel entirely too homey for my liking. The infant woke up just as we finished eating, so she went to get him to feed him. I was the one who suggested a movie until Matt and Jessica got home. I don’t know why, to be honest. I only wanted to get close enough to Ms. Foster to snap a photo that I could use if Henderson didn’t get his shit together. I sure as fuck didn’t expect to add a name to my list of fuckers who must die.

My skin itches, and it’s a struggle not to slip a finger under the latex prosthetic mask on my face. A soft snort escapes my lips. Who would have guessed the very thing I hate most is what allows me to move freely amongst people? I’m sure my dearly departed brother is looking down, laughing at my discomfort.

While Hannah watches the movie, I pull out my phone, looking up Senator Walt Ryans. It doesn’t take long to find a shit ton of information on him. Well, the world will be better off without this one. But he’s going to have to wait because this little search revealed another name. A name that was already on my list.

I sigh.

Looks like another Elite Member is about to die.

I glance at Hannah. I just hope Ms. Foster is prepared for what this will mean for her.

22

Hannah

I’m on edge as I wait for Brooks to show up at my house. He should be here any minute. I stand, needing to move. Jess and Matt showed up at ten on the dot, and I was at my house thirty minutes later. Before I left, both Matt and Gabe assured me I’d be fine, because there would be an officer patrolling my gated neighborhood. It honestly made me feel better, though I still didn’t sleep worth a crap, mostly because I kept thinking about Brooks. Today has been a similar struggle.

I’m about to sit when my doorbell rings. My heart pounds as I rush to the door, opening it. Brooks smiles down at me.

“Hey, gorgeous girl. I’ve missed you.”

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