Page 97 of Hush 3: Hidden Family

“You sound happy. Did … did you and your wife talk things out?”

“We did. This is probably the last time you and I will talk.”

“Oh,” she says, sounding surprised. “Um, I’m happy for you. I’m glad things worked out. She’s very lucky to have you.”

“I’m sorry I dragged you into this?—”

“No, don’t you apologize. You were the only one who was truly kind to me. You were honest with me.

“I knew you loved someone else. I knew you were married. You also told me how much she meant to you and why we couldn’t be more.

“I had hoped … It doesn’t matter. Thank you, Michael. I will respect your wife and your marriage,” she says with a shaky voice.

“Julissa, I’m so very sorry. I thought … I didn’t know we could work things out. I always knew if I could, I would.”

“No, Michael, you don’t owe me anything. I saw how much you love her from the moment you told me about her. I’m glad I could be there when you needed a friend.”

“Thank you. I … if you ever need me. You know, if your life is in danger, call me. However, I do love my wife, and I know speaking to you will upset her, so I’m going to go.”

“Goodbye, Michael.”

“Goodbye.”

I hang up, but not before I catch her sobs on the other end. I feel like shit. I did care for her.

However, I’m crazy about my wife. I love Symphony in a way I could never explain. Maybe someday Julissa will find what she’s looking for in someone who can return her feelings.

CHAPTER 47

ICan Help Him

Symphony

Five months later …

I am having a bad day. The last four months have been difficult since Ellen Mairettie was murdered. I told her she could come to me. If she could see things, why didn’t she come to me?

I would have protected her. Everyone wouldn’t be so sad if she would have allowed me to help. I have been trying to understand how she could help me keep Michael alive but not ask for help for her own life.

Her decision has been messing with my head. Today has been especially difficult and I can’t figure out why. I have had to put on my weighted vest to try to realign myself.

“Sim, baby, did you hear me?”

I look up to find Michael looking at me expectantly. I notice I’m popping my wristband and I’m chewing on my tongue. I’m so confused.

Why would a woman who could see things not change such a horrible thing? Did she not see that I’m one of the best? I could have helped. I could have done something.

“I’m sorry. What was that?”

“Are you okay?”

“Yes, I’ll be fine. I just need a little time today. I’m having a bad day. Did you need something?”

“No. You take all the time you need. Misha is coming by to see me and Uri. He’s bringing Sammy along. I’ll be with them.”

I pop my head up at the mention of Ellen Mairettie’s son. I still remember how she said I would be instrumental in his life. I desperately want to do all I can to repay his mother for her words of caution.

Had it not been for his mother, he wouldn’t be alive, nor would his father. I like Sam Mairettie. It would have been a mistake to take his life. I am sure of that now.

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