Page 48 of Blindsided

I’ve already waited an hour to call. I got that text this morning after Matthew went to work. Everything in me rejected the idea of hearing what Veronica had to say while being by myself. Of course, that made me feel pathetic. It’s not like whatever she needs to tell me can physically hurt me.

“Boss up, Tilly. You can handle this,” I say out loud. Sergio meows at me in agreement.

I grab my phone and call Veronica. She answers on the second ring. “It’s about time you called me back. Jesus, Talia.”

“Sorry, I was out for a run when you texted.” A lie, but I’m not about to tell her I was too scared.

“It doesn’t matter. I have two updates for you. Do you want the good or the bad first? Never mind, I’m going to start with the good.”

I roll my eyes.

“Your apartment sold for over asking. The closing date is scheduled for when you return to New York.”

“Thank you for taking care of that for me. I know that’s not in your job description.”

“It’s fine. With you gone, I’ve had a little extra time on my hands.”

“We both know that’s a lie. You’re just as busy as any other time,” I tease.

“True. Anyway, I’ll let you know if anything comes up on the inspection.”

“What’s the bad news?”

Veronica sighs. “You got another package.”

“Fuck. I was really hoping they’d move on.” My shoulders drop at the news. I knew it was wishful thinking that leaving the city would force my stalker to stop. “What was in the package?”

The pause is enough to tell me it was bad. “Mostly pictures of you. I took photos of them before the police took the box if you want to see them.”

“No, I don’t. Was there anything else?”

“A pair of underwear we’re assuming is yours. That will need to be confirmed with the police, so I’ll send you the contact information for the officer. And there was a note. One of the pictures is of you loading suitcases into a cab, and they wrote,I will find youon it.”

“Jesus. This is a nightmare.” I swipe my palm down my face.

“You need to stay where you are, Talia. At first, I thought you were being dramatic by leaving the city, but your safety is in jeopardy. I’ll do whatever I can to help you.”

“Thanks, Veronica. I may need more time off if they don’t find this guy soon. I’ll come back to the city to sign the papers for the apartment, but I won’t stay if they haven’t caught this asshole.”

“I understand. I’ll make sure your schedule is clear.”

After saying goodbye, I set my phone on the island. Exhaling, I drop my head into my hands. What the hell am I going to do? Not being in the city is the safest option, but how are they going to catch this guy through the random packages he sends? He’s intelligent enough not to leave his prints on anything. I’d imagine he’s adept at avoiding the security cameras, too.

This helpless feeling is overwhelming.

Without thinking, I pick my phone back up and video call Desmond. He answers immediately, and I love him even more for that.

“Hey, sis. You okay?”

I shake my head. “Veronica got another package.”

“Fuck,” Des whispers, dropping his chin to his chest. “I’m sorry, Tills. I wish I was there to hug you.”

“Me, too. I’ll be okay. I’m just… tired of this.”

“We will catch this guy. I swear. Do you feel safe there?”

“Yeah. Veronica told me what was in the box, and it’s clear he doesn’t know where I am.”

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