Page 66 of Fortune's Control
“He drove straight at us. It wasn’t a mistake.” My sister bolted to her feet at my appearance. Messy hair and dirty arms replaced her typical neat appearance.
“Where is she?”
Lilah stayed behind the car’s left rear wheel, crouched in the muddy ditch. “He found me, Shane. He’s going to kill me.”
“No, he won’t. Do you think I’d allow that?” Her beautiful eyes moved and met mine, seeking the truth in my words. I pulled her close, crooning into her ear. “You’re safe. I’m right here, and you’re safe. He won’t hurt you, not today or ever again.” I’d kill him first.
“What happened?” Aiden asked.
Jack checked out Sophie as his hands wavered between reaching for her and staying away.
“Some freak tried to run us over,” Sophie said. She drew a hand into a fist to signal her trademark anger’s return. “We hid behind the car, and he left.”
“My dad’s car,” Aiden said.
“Tell him thanks,” Sophie said.
Lilah stayed silent.
Brown mud smeared her legs and shoes. I grabbed the edge of her dress. “You’re wet and your shoes are soaked. It’s time togo home.”
“We have a meeting with Sam,” she protested, pulling herself up.
“It’s canceled.” I pointed at Aiden. “Call your father and let him know it’s rescheduled for tomorrow, and then close up your building. We’re done working today. Jack, bring my truck.” I tossed my keys behind me, knowing he’d catch them.
“How did he find me?” Lilah leaned on me and nuzzled into the space between my arm and chest. “No one knew. I didn’t tell Detective Davis.”
She told her mother only a few hours ago. “We’ll figure out that part later, after we get you home.”
Jack returned with my truck. “I’ll follow you back,” he said, opening the passenger door.
Lilah didn’t move.
“I’m going home with Jack,” Sophie announced. Lilah grew alert for the first time since the attack as Jack scowled and something akin to hope flickered across his features. “To give you two privacy, that’s all.” To Jack, she added, “We aren’t friends. Don’t forget that.”
He lifted his brows. “That won’t be a problem.”
“My shoes are all wet.” Lilah lifted one and shook it. Standing caused a streak of dirt in her hair to catch the sun’s reflection. Dust covered her arms. “I need a shower.”
“Very soon. It’s time to go.” I scooped her up, so her legs dangled over my arm, and kept still to regain my balance. I’d carried items much heavier than Lilah, but didn’t want to risk her falling or my shame.
I tucked her into the passenger seat and took off while trusting Jack withmy sister.
*****
Lilah slipped off her leather sandals after they squeaked on the kitchen’s tile floor. She stared at the different appliances. “Would anyone else enjoy a cup of hot tea?”
Sophie raised her hand.
“I’ll make it for you.” I beat her to the electric kettle and turned it on. “Make yourself comfortable in the living room. I’m right behind you.”
Sophie arched a brow at my suggestion but didn’t otherwise comment. The main living room had once been our parents’ space, and, by unspoken agreement, we rarely used it. Continuing the habit was a waste, as the living room provided Lilah with a much-needed sense of tranquility.
“Aiden called. He’s on his way and bringing Pete,” Jack said once we were alone.
I forgot he called me. “Do you know why?”
“Didn’t ask.”
