Page 10 of Promise Maker

Shakily, I lift the latch and peer outside at thedark trees before dashing into them, huffing, crying, riddled with terror.

At the echo of gunshots, I trip and tumble to thegrass. The shooting is far behind, but I’m still so scared someone’s chasingafter me.

I push myself from the ground and resume running.

A fragment of hope fills my thrashing chest when Iglimpse lights ahead. Coming to the outskirts of the woods, I peer down thehill at the neighbors in the distance.

Martelli. Trust no oneelse.

My dad’s warning rings in my ears.

I bolt down the hill in the direction of town.

I’m a panting mess by the time I emerge from theprivate neighborhood onto the main road.

Dragging myself to the gas station nearby, Icrouch in the bushes at the back and power on the disposable phone, pressingthe only number my dad has saved.

4

I’m not sure how long I’ve been standing in thesame spot, staring out the window.

My encounter with Solari is occupying my mind, somuch so I’m only now realizing Francesca’s absence.

I wander to the bar to pour another glass ofwhiskey when pinging catches my ears.

Scowling, I look around the large office, tryingto find the source. The sounds draw my attention to the shelves.

I hurry over and search the books, finding adisposable cell phone tucked at the back.

Bishop’s name flashes on the screen.

“Mr. Brigham?” I answer right away.

Painful sobs and gasping fill the line—a woman.

The sense of urgency immediately cascades over mybody. “Solari? Is that you?”

“Domenico…please help me!”

“Where are you?” I storm out of the office as sherattles off her location and other things incomprehensible. “Stay put. I’mcoming!”

Father hastens from the living room. “What’s thematter?”

“Brigham. I’m taking men with me.”

I run out the door without his permission. I doubthe’d be against it since Bishop is his old friend. But I wouldn’t have backeddown had he refused.

Solari needs me.

I won’t break my promise to her this time around.

I reach the gas station in less than five minutesand rush from the car, combing the area for Solari.

My stomach clenches when I spot her hiding in the bushesat the back, knees up to her chest, sobbing.

I want to rip the guts out of the bastards thatmade her so drenched in fear.

Startled by my steps, Solari pushes up to run.

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