Page 37 of Silk and Steel

I stare at the flashing screen in my hand. Unknown number. Could be spam. Could be a call from a producer who needs my skills for a gig.

And yet, I have this awful feeling there’s just one person who’s going to be on the other line.

Cole is on his phone, talking to the Platinum Security office’s resident tech expert, Harlowe. If I can keep Julian talking for at least three minutes, then they might be able to find his location.

And if they find his location, the police can put hands on him and I’ll be safe. If, of course, Cole lets the police get there first.

“Emory?”

Everything’s waiting on me. But I can’t bring myself to touch the answer icon. The phone stops ringing and I cringe.

“Sorry.”

Cole purses his lips. I can tell he’s annoyed, but he’s trying to keep it from showing. For my sake, or because he’s being professional?

“It’s all right. Just be ready–”

The phone rings again. Startled, I push the icon and take the call before I can really think about what I’m doing.

My voice falters when I answer.

“H-hello?”

“How’s the old man?”

Lovejoy’s voice hits me like a shock of electricity. The slightly mocking tone makes me think my darkest suspicions might be right.

“What did you do to my father?”

Sniggering laughter is his response.

“What did you do?” I say again, louder.

“I never said I did anything. He’s alive, though. For now.”

“Julian, please, your problem is with me! Why do you have to go after my parents?”

Julian’s voice takes on a guttural edge.

“Your parents. Your friends. Your co-workers. That perky little brunette who gives you the latte on set. Anyone and everyone you know will suffer.”

My heart beats so hard I’m afraid it’s going to burst. A sickness grips my stomach with an iron claw. It’s my worst nightmare come true. Julian is on the loose, actively threatening me and everyone I love.

The tears pour down my cheeks. I shake so hard I can barely hold the phone.

“Crying doesn’t work with me, Emory. You know I can’t take negative emotional displays.”

“You’re threatening my parents! Of course I’m crying! You never understood anyone’s feelings but your own. You can’t treat people like this and expect them to love you.”

His tone changes immediately.

“But I do love you, Emory! Can’t you see that? Can’t you see all of the things I’ve done for you? I’d do anything for you, Emory. Anything.”

“Then why don’t you leave me the fuck alone?”

My back got up. A rare moment of defiance for me. Maybe Cole’s toughness is rubbing off. But immediately after the anger flares, fear rushes in to replace it.

“Leave you alone? I just said I love you! I can’t breathe without you. You owe me! You owe me your love and devotion. You were nothing before I found you, nothing.”

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