Page 83 of Jael

“Sounded like a domestic violence issue.”

“It is, but it goes beyond that. I need you to be discreet.”

“I’ll call it in. Do you need me to get my partner?”

“No. I’d rather Becca knows the police are looking out for her.”

The officer nodded and then returned to the vehicle to make the call.

Chapter 23

“That wasn’t so bad,was it?” Jael said to Becca after the police left.

“I didn’t want it to come to this,” Becca said.

“I know. But now Martin knows it’s serious.”

“The room is booked,” Danny said from the doorway.

“It’s only a motel,” Jael said. “But there’s a pool for the kids. I’ll find more suitable accommodation as soon as I can.”

“Anywhere is fine as long as… Martin won’t know?”

“I’m paying for this one out of my own pocket, so I won’t be telling anyone.”

“You shouldn’t do that.”

“I’ve got more than enough. And you’ll sleep better knowing you’re one hundred percent safe. Why don’t you and the kids get packed?”

After Becca left the living room, Jael took Danny’s arm and led him outside. “Thanks again for coming. But you can go now.”

“You’re that desperate to get rid of me?”

“Becca will feel safer with you gone. I know you’re on our side, but she doesn’t trust many people, as I’m sure you can understand.”

“I can, but I don’t trust Christopher. I’d like to follow behind so I can make sure no one’s tailing you.”

“I’m perfectly capable of spotting a tail.”

“A second pair of eyes would help.”

“I can handle it.”

Danny rested his hands on his hips. “If you don’t trust me, why did you call me?”

“Honestly? I don’t know what to believe about you. I knew I couldn’t get Christopher to leave without help, and you were the only one I could think of that could step in. I had thought for a fleeting moment that you’d followed me here. But of course, you always pick the most inopportune times to give me a break.”

“I haven’t been following you. Not recently. But I can start again if you want.”

“Is that a threat?” She smiled despite herself.

“I’m only here to help. Let me make sure Christopher’s not following you.”

Before she could reply, Becca and the kids came out the door. “We’re ready.”

Jael looked at Danny and nodded.

After a detour through the McDonald’s drive-thru, they arrived at the motel.

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