Page 75 of Ashes of Saints

These photos might give me a lead to find the other predators who were involved. With technology and the right experts—and a lot of money—it’s amazing what you learn.

I found Mary-Anne, but through a death notice. The images could lead me to a living criminal and that means these could be the first solid lead I’ve ever found.

Until Aurora trusts me, getting her to share her childhood memories, or nightmares, is going to take time.

It could happen.

But what I don’t like is how possessive I’ve become of her. Keeping my distance is going to be key.

In fact, taking her to the Alliance Club will be a good test.

She isn’t mine.

I will be walking away.

Therefore, I will sit back and let...

My phone beeps announcing our breakfast has arrived, which is good timing, as I can’t finish that train of thought.

I let him up to the penthouse and give the driver a tip.

“Cheers mate.” The Australian grins cheerfully at the fifty-dollar bill. “Shit. I might take the rest of the day off.”

I laugh and wait until the door closes before taking the food into the kitchen.

“Oh god, I’m starving.” Aurora walks out wearing little black shorts and a matching tank top, and wet hair.

Not mine.

Fuck that, she’s mine.

She squeezes her hair with a small white towel while I contemplate how bad microwaved eggs might be if I dump this bag of food and bend her over the sofa.

Aurora strides past me, chucks the towel on a stool and pulls the boxes of food out of the bags. My stomach grumbles, so I reluctantly choose the food.

After we eat and take a nap, that ass is mine.

CHAPTER NINETEEN

AURORA

“I’m going to explode.” I hold my hand against my stomach and carry my plate to the kitchen sink. Parker follows, putting the dishes in the dishwasher, then we both head into the living room.

I collapse onto the sofa while he sits on an armchair opposite me. I’m still getting used to living in Mom’s apartment and thought it was pretty fancy until I went to Parker’s last night. I’ve never stepped foot in such a beautiful home.

“My view isn’t anywhere near as nice as yours.” I smile.

“It’s better than the one you had.” He chucks his phone on the coffee table between us.

“That’s for sure.” I sigh.

It feels as if we’ve turned a corner in our relationship and that it could get serious. Clearly, I’m not a wealthy woman. After paying Mom’s latest utility bill, my savings were vastly stripped, so I won’t be able to hide it for much longer.

Parker isn’t dating me for my money, but I need him to know I am cash poor. Until after probate.

That could take months or longer.

I hope not.

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