Page 51 of Tangled Trust

But, deep inside of me, I feel the flames smoldering. They’re gathering momentum with each passing day. I must find Ella. If Emily has shown me anything, it’s that Ella is my soulmate. She is the woman for me.

It’s 4 p.m., and my last patient has just left. I spoke to a friend in confidence and told her I needed the name of a decent investigator. I’m clearly not going to find Ella on my own. Not with my work schedule. I have the PI’s number loaded on my phone.

"Poppy," I say into the receiver, "you may go early today."

"Thank you, Doctor. Have a pleasant evening."

"Thank you."

I’m alone in the office as soon as she leaves. I dial the investigator’s number.

"Hello. Roland Simms."

"Hello, Mr. Simms. My name is Sebastian. A mutual friend, Agatha, gave me your number."

"Hello, Sebastian. How may I be of assistance?"

"I’d like to discuss something with you. In person."

"Alright."

"Are you able to meet me today?"

"Anything for a friend of Agatha’s," he says jovially.

"Good."

We agree on a time, and I suggest we meet in town. I don’t want my patients to know about this, so I don’t want him to come to my office.

It’s 5 p.m. when Roland Simms sits down at a small table across from me. We order coffee and check each other out. I reckon he's in his late forties. He’s well-groomed, has good taste in clothing, and sports an expensive watch. He must be good at what he does, as he has an air of confidence about him.

"How can I help?"

"I need you to find someone for me. I need you to do it quietly."

"I see."

Roland gives me a rundown on the information he needs on Ella, and I promise to supply him with as much as I can. I don’t bother asking him for a breakdown of his fees, as I’m not bothered. I’ve never been short on money. Besides, this is important. I’ll happily pay this man whatever he charges to get Ella back.

I feel better once the meeting is over.

I’m coming for you, Ella, my love. You can’t hide from me forever. You’re mine.

15

CARTER

I’ve dropped all pretense when it comes to my attraction to Ella. When we’re alone, at least. It’s nothing but professional between us in front of the other staff, and when we’re with Jagger, of course. Not that I particularly care who knows, but I don’t want to put Ella in an awkward position when it comes to the people she works alongside.

I have to say, I’m smitten. Being with Ella is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. It’s corny, I know, but I feel as if I’ve known her all my life. She’s so easy to talk to, and her quick wit is refreshing. I find myself missing her when she’s out with Jagger, and my heart skips a beat when I hear her voice in the house or smell her perfume in a room.

We’ve had a few stolen moments here and there, but I think it’s time I explored the possibility of what this relationship could become, given the proper opportunity. It’s time for a weekend away—just the two of us.

Jagger is with Amanda for ten days. She asked if he could accompany her on her annual ski holiday in Aspen, and I agreed. He’s becoming quite proficient on the snow, and he does so enjoy building and decorating snowmen. I must admit that I have an ulterior motive for my enthusiastic altruism. This gives me an opportunity to have Ella all to myself for a few days.

As far as the rest of the household is concerned, Ella is off for a few days. Where she goes and what she does is no one’s business but her own.

It’s day two of Jagger’s break when I call Ella into my office. Her scent wafts across the desk and envelopes my senses.

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