Me: What does that mean?
Unknown Number: I know you’ve discovered something. I’ll be waiting, but not for long. Don’t worry, though. I’ll leave you a parting gift.
This unnerves me. Does he know what I’m doing on my phone? How? That would mean he has access to it.
The only people who realistically have access to my phone who would have the capability to do this would be Dad or Theo. I’m still trying to figure out what their angle would be.
Maybe S is right in front of my face.
Solomon?
Solomon didn’t have access to my phone on the yacht, per se, but it doesn’t mean someone couldn’t have hacked it anyway. Gareth was on that trip as well. I know what a piece of shit he was. It wouldn’t surprise me if he, who was skilled with technology like myself, gave information to Solomon. He’s hated me ever since I insisted on him having a nanny for Kaitlyn. When Romy came along, he fucking lost it. It’s definitely a possibility.
If Solomon has Calista, I’m fucked.
That bastard is sadistic.
Was he at the event? I didn’t see him. Supposedly, Calista was there, but I’m not sure I believe S or Solomon or whoever the hell he is. This could all be an effort to confuse me.
Unfortunately, it’s working.
I’m closer to the location, so I pick up speed despite the raw pain from my blisters on my feet.
The location leads me to a bustling restaurant. My stomach growls upon smelling the greasy food. I scan the building front, peering through the windows before rushing inside.
A waitress holds up a finger to let me know she’ll be with me in a moment while she takes an order. The place is full of people, but there are a few empty tables. One particular dirtied table catches my eye.
Beside a full, still steaming cup of coffee, is an abandoned old phone, probably a burner. The phone is most likely missing its SIM card, though I’ll take it anyway just in case, but it’s the other thing that chills me.
His parting gift.
It’s a doll—one that wears a custom-made dress. Her nails have been painted a hideous blue color.
It’s not just any doll, though.
It’s the same one Calista had that day.
He wasn’t lying. Whoever S is, he either has her or knows where she’s at. I’m so fucking close to finding her.
So close.
Romy
The cloud I’d been floating on begins to dissipate. Slowly, I open my eyes and become aware of what’s around me.
I’m on a soft bed.
Caius’s cologne scent clings to the covers.
My skin is warm. I could go back to sleep.
“How about a bedtime story, hmm?”
I’m in and out of consciousness. Is this a dream? Fingers stroke through my damp hair and the person chuckles.
Theo.
I fight to keep my brain locked in on the sound of his voice. I can’t open my eyes and can barely understand what’s happening, but his voice is the one thing I can cling to.