Page 22 of Only If You Dare

Chapter Eight

Julian

“Stalked!” Desiree clutched the phone a bit firmer. I strolled to her taking the cell from her grasp, placing it on speaker. Santana’s voice filled our space.

“My house has been burglarized along with Lily Fosters, Tabitha McKnight, and Gloria Stephani. A note was left at all of our apartments.”

A visible tremor ran through Desiree. “What kind of note,” Desiree asked.

“Pretty reporter ladies shouldn’t be left alone after ruining a man’s life. Anything could happen to them.”

A foreboding crept through me.

“Oh my God,” Desiree covered her mouth with a hand, staring at the phone in shocked silence.

“If you’re in a safe place, you need to stay put. You probably shouldn’t be home alone tonight. If this guy broke into our homes on the same day, yours could be next if it hasn’t been already. When was the last time you were home?”

Desiree’s hand dropped. “Oh my God, Jasper!” She sat the glass down. “I’ve gotta go, Santana, I’ll call you back.” Desiree disconnected the call and threw the phone in her purse.

“Where are you going?” I barked.

“I’ve got to get Jasper!” She dug her feet into the Christian Louboutins and headed for the door, but I’d beat her to it.

“What are you doing,” she asked as I blocked her escape.

“I assume Jasper is your pet?”

“Yes, my dog, a Pomeranian. I haven’t had him a month! I need to get to him.”

“Give me your keys.” I held my hand out.

“Why?”

“Because I’m driving.”

“What?” Her voice rose. “No, I can’t allow you do that!”

I reached out to lay my hands on her shoulders. “I’m not letting you go home alone after that phone call. Do you hear what I’m saying, Desiree?”

Desiree looked like she wanted to object again, but thought better of it and handed me the keys. Swiftly, we left the solitude of the room and headed for the private elevator. On the way down, Desiree fidgeted, bringing her fingers to her lips to nibble on her nails. She followed the lights as each number lit up every time we passed another floor. I reached out, sending a soothing hand over her back.

“Hey.”

She looked to me; a worried glance etched on her beautiful face.

“Everything will be fine, alright? I’m sure Jasper is sitting by the door wagging his tail, waiting for you to come home.”

She gave me a halfhearted smile. “I hope you’re right.”

“I’m usually always right.”

That pulled a laugh from her.

“Oh, I’m sure you are.” She looked away briefly. “Thanks.”

“For what?”

“Trying to make light of this situation.”

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