Page 38 of Love Finds Home

“The note said they knew where you were and they’re coming for you.”

My body goes cold. Who would do this to me? What have I done to anyone to get this treatment?

“I don’t understand,” I finally whisper.

“I don’t either, baby girl, but I need to know that you’re safe. Is there security at your apartment? Can you ask one of your guys that know how to do that? I need you to be in Fort Knox. You are gold, baby girl, understand?”

I roll my eyes, even through the fear. “Don’t you think you’re going a little overboard? I mean, someone new shows up in town and everyone knows.”

“I don’t think you’re taking this seriously enough, Elenore. Don’t make me call that man you’re falling for and tell him what’s going on.”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“Don’t play stupid. It’s not a good look on you. I don’t understand why you aren’t taking this seriously. You’ve been down this road before, you know—”

“We aren’t talking about that,” I cut him off. “We are never talking about that. This is not that.”

“It’s close enough that you need to be careful. I don’t think you’re dealing with a run of the mill, overzealous fan, Elle. They didn’t sign the card. They know where the cameras are and leave the dead flowers where they won’t be caught. I adjust the cameras and they move the flowers’ location.”

“Wait. Exactly how many times have they left them?” I ask.

“It’s been every day.”

“For how long?” I ask, my voice raising.

“For a week now,” he admits.

“And you thought I only needed to hear about it now? Now that they’ve left a note?”

“It was just flowers.”

“Until it’s not just flowers.”

“The cops are looking into it, okay?”

“Keep the studio safe, Jorge. That’s my baby, and I need to know you can keep her safe.”

“I’ll keep her safe, Elle. Promise.”

“And you’ll call me next time. Every time. And when the cops get back with you.”

“I will. Love you.”

“Love you, too.”

I hang up the phone and lean against the side of the house, taking in a few deep breaths. Pushing everything to the back of my mind, I take the few steps to the backyard again. Where I’m met with more than one pair of worried eyes. I plaster the smile on my face and walk to the table where I left my drink. I can feel their eyes boring into my back. After taking a gulp, I turn to everyone.

“Sorry about that. Crazy chaos at the studio back in the Cove.”

“Everything alright?” Lottie asks quietly as she comes to stand beside me.

“Yeah, fine. Nothing to worry about. We have it all under control. Jorge’s on it.”

“And what am I supposed to tell your brother when he grills me about this conversation later tonight?”

“Tell him to fuck off?” I ask, getting a chuckle out of her. “Tell him everything’s fine. The last thing I need is my oversized giant of a little brother trying to play superhero.”

“Like that would stop him.” She arches a brow at me.

---