Page 124 of Fierce Obsession

“Just to get some fresh air. I’ll be back in twenty.” I grab my coat and boots, ignoring the burning sensation of their gazes on my back.

There’s hushed murmuring behind me, but I ignore it. It isn’t until I’m at the bank of elevators that I realize I’ve been followed.

I glance over my shoulder, more expecting Knox than anyone else. Which is why I’m surprised by Violet Devereux. She offers me a small smile and steps into the elevator ahead of me.

I hadn’t even heard it arrive.

Once we’re in, the doors slide closed. We are both immobile for a moment, until she finally reaches forward and hits theLbutton. Lobby. Right.

“You okay?” she asks.

I sigh. “Just grappling with the knowledge that my fiancé might be in on this whole thing. I thought he was a good person. Deep down.”

“Even good people can make bad choices.”

There’s a chime, and the elevator doors open. We head toward the exit, passing the doorman’s station. At this time of night, they’re not outside all the time.

“Mrs. Whiteshaw!”

Violet tugs on my sleeve. “I think he’s talking to you.”

The manager hurries across the lobby in our direction.

I make a face. Of course this guy is going along with the freaking name change. Like I don’t have anything attached to McGovern.Asshole.

Beside me, Violet snickers. “I don’t suppose you’re used to that level of domineering?”

“He used to be… I don’t know. Maybe he was always like this and I just never noticed.”

“Mrs. Whiteshaw,” the building manager says when he reaches us.

“It’s Ms. McGovern.” I fold my arms over my chest.

He pauses. He kind of resembles a bullfrog—short, squat, and sweaty. His hands tremble, and he holds out a small box. “This came for you. I was going to have someone run it up to your unit, but since you’re here…”

I raise my eyebrow and take it. I don’t make a move to open it until he gives a quick nod and scurries away. Only then do I let out a slow breath. It’s wrapped in brown paper, about the size of my palm. There’s no note on it, no writing. Just carefully taped edges.

I meet Violet’s gaze and shrug.

“I’m dying of curiosity,” she murmurs.

“Okay, okay.” I slide my nail under the edge of tape. The rest opens easily, until I’m left with a plain white box. The lid comes off, and I stare down at the piece of folded paper.

Thought you might appreciate the memories attached to this. – L

“Is theLfor Luke?” Violet whispers, scanning the paper over my shoulder.

“I…”

In the box is the ring.

The engagement ring Joel gave me.

Violet frowns. “That’s not good.”

“I couldn’t agree more.”

45

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