Page 103 of Jael

“Has something happened? Where’s Christopher?”

He stared at her for a moment. “I heard you weren’t feeling well.”

“No. I felt dizzy. I think I’m still sick.”

“Turned out to be a good thing. I’m glad you’re safe.”

“Safe from what? What’s happened?”

“The FBI were watching,” he said.

“Watching what?”

“Your engagement party. They were there. You must have left right before they stormed the place.”

“Why would they be at my engagement party?”

“Why do you think? They’ve been after me for years.” He shook his head. “I think they took Christopher in. Danny got to him. It gave me time to escape, but I doubt Christopher got out.”

“That’s— I’m so sorry. Do you think they’ll be able to hold him for long?”

“I don’t know. I’ve heard a few whispers, but to make a bold move like that, they must have something.”

She walked to the couch and sat, glancing briefly at her phone. “They haven’t gotten you before. But I hope he’ll be okay.”

“You don’t have to pretend to be sad.”

“Excuse me?”

“I know you were only marrying him because you had to.”

“I—”

Artus raised his hand. “It’s okay. He’s my son, and I love him, but his credentials as a husband aren’t the best. And I’ve known you a long time. You’re a good liar, but not good enough to fool me.”

She nodded. Artus was practical enough she could be honest with him in this. If she could get him to trust her and relax, she’d have a chance of alerting Danny. “You know I’ve always done what I’ve needed to in order to survive.”

“I know. You’re a remarkable woman. I’ve thought so for a long time. I’ve never known your equal.”

“That’s more praise than I deserve.”

“It’s only appropriate that you say that. But I don’t agree. Gregory and I may not have always seen eye to eye, but I’ve gotta say, he raised a hell of a daughter.”

“That’s kind of you to say.”

He walked over to the couch and sat beside her, resting his hand on her knee. “I’ve been privileged to know you a long time. I think I’ve earned the right to speak into your life.” He was too close, but she didn’t dare move away.

“You’ve been a good friend to our family,” she said. “You’ve also given my dad and me wise advice.”

“I’m glad to hear you say that.” He rubbed his thumb across her knee. “You’re a beautiful woman. But when your father made it clear that he had Christopher in his sights to marry you, I was willing to go along with it. I care for you very much, and I only want what’s best for you. But I always thought he got it wrong. My son is no match for you.”

Jael’s throat was so tight, she had to clear it to speak. “Christopher and I don’t have a lot in common. But in these types of situations, you give up your expectations to fulfill your duty.”

“What if you could do both?”

“I don’t think that’s possible.”

“I see the way you look at me.”

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