Page 88 of High Frequency

“That’s what it sounds like,” I confirm. “But he’s not getting a cent from me.”

“Hold on a sec,” Dan interjects as he steps out of the shower and grabs a towel, rubbing his hair vigorously. “I think you should give him the money.”

My mouth falls open as I stare at him in disbelief.

“You’re not serious, are you?”

“Yup. But on the condition he gives up his parental rights. It’s not like he wants them, and he’s using his rights as leverage over you. I don’t think you’ve heard the last of him. I can call my sister, Lindsey, for advice. She’s a legal assistant for her mother, who is a family lawyer in Durango. The law may differ from state to state, but they’ll at least be able to tell us how to go about getting this done.”

It takes me a moment to process. This is what Mom was suggesting this morning, making Jeff sign off on his rights. At the time it was something to consider for the future, but I guess Jeff’s unexpected phone call makes it a reality to deal with now.

This would cost me legal fees and filing or whatever else is needed on top of his first and last month’s rent, but it’s probably cheaper in the long run than potentially having to deal with him long term. The only problem is, I’m not sure I’d be able to afford it. Even just first and last month’s rent—which I’m guessing would be around fifteen hundred, so three grand total—would be a stretch for my meager savings. Of course, that also means I don’t have first and last when I get around to looking for a place of my own.

“I can hear you thinking.”

“I am.” I grin up at him as he pulls me to my feet. “Your idea is kinda brilliant, but I’m not sure if it’s going to be an option for me at this time.”

He places his hands on my shoulders.

“Us,” he corrects me. “You know where I see us going. I’m pretty sure you’re at least on board with the concept of that. And that means we tackle shit as a team.”

“But this isn’t your problem,” I point out.

“Sure it is. Anything that affects you, has an impact on me too. Isn’t that the nature of relationships?”

“Honestly? I wouldn’t know.”

He shakes me gently and I’m suddenly aware that I’m standing in a small space with a very handsome, very naked man.

“Eyes up here, Sloane,” he mumbles. “My point is, I benefit too. Once he’s out of your and Aspen’s life, there’s more room for me.”

Then he gives me the full force of his smile, and I feel the effect down to my toes.

“Okay,” I give in with a nod. “If you could contact your sister to see if she knows what all of this would entail, that would be very helpful. Thank you.”

“That wasn’t too hard, was it?” he teases, still very naked.

The man is too tempting, and I’m having a hard time thinking of anything other than jumping him.

“Shouldn’t you put some clothes on?” I suggest.

He slides his hands up my neck to cradle my face and drops a hard kiss on my lips, before letting go.

“I will, but only because I want to hear about the rest of your day and tell you about mine.”

I’ll be damned if that doesn’t make me want to jump him harder.

Dan

“Seven victims.”

I shake my head. It makes me a little sick to think what may have been happening in my backyard.

Sloane has been filling me in on the meeting at the sheriff’s office this morning.

“Eight. Chelsea was a victim too,” Sloane reminds me, snuggled up against my side.

“Of course, you’re right.”

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