The next morning I’m rushing around the cabin trying to get ready to meet Grandpa at Lily and Mark’s.
Dean and I slept in until eleven. It’s now quarter past twelve, and I still can’t find my damn clutch anywhere. We’re running late as it is.
“Did you see where I put my handbag last night, Dean? I can’t find it, and I need my phone. The police said they’d call to update me on what’s happening,” I rush out, throwing the sofa cushions everywhere.
“Yeah, baby. It’s where you left it,” he tells me, and I turn around, giving him a dry look.
“And where is that?” I ask sarcastically, hand on hip.
“On the floor by the front door where you chucked it.”
Well shit, I did chuck it by the door when we came in last night. I growl, frustrated when I find it where he said it was. “Are you ready to go?” I snap, but there’s no heat in my tone.
“Babe, I’ve been ready for the past hour.” He laughs, jumping back when I go to punch his arm; playfully of course.
“If they ask why we’re late, I’m blaming you,” I tell him, sticking my tongue out at him.
When we finally arrive at the Salvatores, Mark and Lily are standing on the front steps. They both come over to greet us, giving me a warm hug and a kiss. I don’t miss the way their eyes run over me, checking that I’m okay.
“How are you feeling today?” Lily asks, her face full of pain and worry.
“I’m surprisingly okay, all things considered. The police haven’t gotten in touch yet. I think I’ll feel better once I know what’s going on. I’m really sorry for ruining last night. I hope I haven’t destroyed any future business for you,” I say, feeling guilty.
Lily gives me a sharp look, shaking her head disapprovingly. “Look here, doll, we would rather lose our business than do business with people like that. We only care about you. We’re concerned about you and feel terrible that this happened. I just wish we knew what he was like before.”
“What do you mean?” I ask, looking at her and Mark for an answer.
“Well, as soon as he got arrested, everyone started talking. It wasn’t the first time he’s done this to someone,” Mark explains softly, wary of my reaction.
A part of me had already considered this, but hearing it and thinking it are two different things. I feel sick to my stomach. This world can be so evil.
“Oh,” I whisper, my heart hurting for those women who didn’t get away.
“Let’s just try to enjoy the day,” Dean says, giving his mom and dad a pointed look.
They both nod, seeming apologetic. “Are you excited to see your grandpa?” Lily asks, changing the subject.
“Yes.” My voice is full of excitement and happiness, and Lily laughs at my enthusiasm. She opens her mouth to say something when we’re interrupted by my phone ringing.
“Oh, this might be the police. I should get it,” I say, looking down at the unknown caller flashing on my screen. I move back outside, sitting down on the step to get a little privacy, although Dean follows a few steps behind me.
“Hello,” I answer politely.
“Hi, this is Detective Robson. I’m calling for a Miss Lawson.” His voice is deep and smooth. I barely remember the man I gave my statement to last night, but his voice does sound vaguely familiar.
“Hello, Detective Robson. It’s Lola here.”
“I’m just ringing to inform you that Mr Wallace was charged this morning with attempted sexual assault and battery. According to our records, this isn’t the first incident with him. There’s another report claiming he assaulted a woman, but the charges never stuck due to lack of evidence. In this case, we have enough evidence and witnesses to confirm your allegation. It won't be going to court, as he pleaded guilty earlier this morning, which means he will get jail time, though he will get a shorter sentence than what he would have if he had gone to court. Are there any questions that you want to ask me before I go?” he asks, sounding curt and straight to the point.
I pause, shocked. I didn’t think he’d plead guilty. I honestly believed it would be dragged through the courts since Jordan was telling everyone who would listen last night that I gave him consent.
I’m in complete and utter shock, and I can’t help but wonder who got him to change his mind. It’s possible that his lawyer told him he’d get a longer sentence if he fought the allegation. We do have a solid case; even the officer from last night said that.
“Miss Lawson?” Detective Robson calls, and I shake my head, snapping out of it.
“Sorry. Um… no, no questions. Thank you,” I say numbly, still in shock.
“That’s my job, Miss Lawson. I’m just glad we were able to take him off the streets before he could hurt anyone else,” he says sincerely.
“Me too,” I whisper, realising what this all truly means. He won’t be able to hurt anyone ever again. My mind goes to Rick and what this signifies. Would getting him arrested and sent to jail be as easy as Jordan?
I shake my head, concentrating on the phone call, missing half of what Detective Robson says.
“Have a good day, and if you ever need anything, please just ring the station and ask for me. If I’m not there then leave a message for me and I’ll get back to you as soon as I can,” he offers, which I find remarkably kind.
“Thank you. Goodbye, Detective Robson,” I say, still in a daze.
I hear him end the call, the line going dead, but I still don’t move. I’m just so relieved I’ll never have to see Jordan again.
I am worried about the media. Due to his position, the newspapers are going to be all over this and I don’t want my name to be leaked. It will be like sending a neon flashing sign to Rick that says I’m here.
Dean said that they had to respect my privacy due to the nature of the incident, but you never know with reporters these days. I haven’t even looked on the Internet or at the newspapers this morning, and I’m not going to. I’d rather not know.
“What did he say?” Dean asks, wrapping his arms around me as he sits behind me, his legs either side of me.
I lean back, soaking in his warmth, and place my hands over his that are crossed in front of me.
“Jordan pleaded guilty. There was too much evidence against him. What your parents were saying was true. Detective Robson confirmed it. He said this wasn’t the first accusation made against him.” I sigh, saddened about the women who haven’t received justice.
“I can’t believe he’s gotten away with this before. I’m glad he’s going to jail,” he growls. “How do you feel now?”
The question makes me wonder if he’s thinking of Rick. I know how desperate he is for me to go to the police and, if I’m honest, a part of me wants to.
“Honestly? I’m more shocked than anything. I can’t believe he actually admitted to it. I really believed that he’d drag this through the courts, pleading his innocence. I’m just glad he can’t hurt anyone else.”
“I know you did, baby, but you really need to have more faith in the justice system. I’m glad they’ve charged him. He deserves everything he has coming to him,” he seethes.
“Was it the police, doll?” Lily asks, walking out with Mark.
“Yeah, he’s been charged this morning. He pleaded guilty,” I inform them, still going over Dean’s last words about trusting the justice system.
“Wow, I thought he was going to fight tooth and nail. Guess I was wrong,” she says, looking dumbfounded.
“Me too. I really thought he’d turn everything around on me.”
“I wish the fucker couldn’t afford shower gel,” she blurts out, and my mouth gapes open in shock before I burst out laughing, everyone joining me.
“Lily.” I giggle.
“Ew, Mom,” Dean moans, yet a chuckle slips free.
Mark just shakes his head, amused. “C’mon, let’s get the kettle on. Your grandpa called me, letting me know he was on his way over. It’s why we came out. He’ll be here soon.”
“I could kill for a coffee,” I whine dramatically as Dean helps me up off the step.
“Are you sure that’s wise?” he whispers in my ear as we walk in and I look over my shoulder at him, confused. His eyes flicker to my midsection before pulling me back against his chest, his hands rubbing my stomach.
My eyes widen with realisation. “Or tea. Yeah, I can do tea,” I shout to Lily and Mark in the kitchen, making Dean laugh as we follow them.
“Where’s Pagan and Sid?” Dean asks, seeming more relaxed after the officer’s phone call.
Lily fills the kettle and turns it on before turning to face her son. “Sid offered to help Pagan sort everything out at the marquee,” she says, looking at me before averting her gaze.
What was that look about?
“I thought she hired cleaners?” Dean says, looking through the fridge for food.
“Stop bloody messing. I’ll make you some lunch when Dwayne gets here. And the catering company were meant to clean everything up last night, but we sent everyone home when… well, you know when,” she says, waving him off, and her earlier look makes sense. She didn’t want to bring it all back up in front of me.
Guilt gnaws at me. “Does she need any help?” I ask, ready to go down there.
“Oh no! We called a cleaning company this morning. Sid and Pagan are basically supervising and getting all the donations boxed up and sent to buyers.”
“Are you sure? That sounds like a lot of work,” I ask again, biting my bottom lip.
“Dwayne’s here,” Mark shouts from the other room. My eyes meet Dean’s, and a wide grin spreads across my face before I rush through the house, excited to see Grandpa.
As I rush outside, I bounce on the top step, waiting for him to pull up.
Dean said Mark filled Grandpa in on last night’s events for which I’m thankful. I don’t think my heart could handle telling him more bad news. It’s just one less thing to deal with, and by the look on my grandpa’s face, I can tell it’s going to be a long day. His salt-and-pepper hair looks a mess, like he’s run his hands through it too many times.
The car barely comes to a stop before I’m jumping down the steps and running over. He’s just getting out of the car when I reach him so when I barrel into him, he falls back a step, catching me.
Bringing my face into the crook of his neck, I breathe him in, and a tear falls from my eye right before I break down, my body trembling with sobs. Grandpa holds me, running his hand up and down my back, letting me get it all out.
Guilt hits me painfully. He’s the only blood relative I have left, and I pushed him away. The fear of him having to face Rick’s wrath if he ever found out, made it easier, but doing so cost me my grandpa, and I’ve missed him so bloody much.
“Hush child. Everything is going to be okay,” he says hoarsely, sounding choked up.
“I’ve missed you so much,” I cry, holding him tighter.
“I’ve missed you too, doll.” He kisses my temple before pulling away and looking down at me with a sad expression. “Let’s go inside. We need to talk.”
My stomach sinks and I nod, knowing I need to hear what he has to say. Dean pulls me into his side as Grandpa greets Mark and Lily with pleasantries.
“You okay?” Dean whispers, looking down at me.
“Yeah. I just have a bad feeling about this. He sounded off on the phone last night, like he was distracted,” I tell him, having forgotten to mention it last night.
“I’m not going anywhere, love. I’ll be here,” he promises, taking my hand. I squeeze his gently and together we walk in.
*** *** ***
We gather at the dining room table and, like the last time I was here, it feels formal and uncomfortable. It doesn’t help that Mark and Grandpa hovered in the doorway whispering to one another before they sat down. It’s clear that Mark has already been filled in on whatever Grandpa needs to tell me. It must be bad if he’s told someone else before me.
Lily walks in holding a tray of coffee and cups of teas, and I give her a grateful smile as I take my tea, needing it to calm me down.
My eyes drift to my grandpa again, surprised at how pale and shaken he looks. He’s barely been able to keep eye contact with me, and I hate it. I don’t know what’s going on or what’s running through his head and it’s driving me nuts.
“Who’s going to feed Hunter and Dolly?” I ask Dean, needing to say something, anything to keep myself from being sucked into the tension of the room. “Maybe we should go feed them?”
“Matt’s going to clean them out today. Don’t worry about the horses. He works Sundays to earn money.” He smiles, and I nod, remembering him mentioning it before.
“That’s good. I mean, they won’t starve, and Matt gets money. To spend,” I babble nervously.
Dean chuckles, placing his hand on my thigh. “Calm down, love. It’s going to be okay,” he tells me, looking me straight in the eye. I just nod, hoping he’s right.
“Lola, did you want to talk somewhere private, or can I talk in front of everyone?” Grandpa asks, and I turn from Dean to stare at him.
“No, they can stay,” I tell him, gulping.
I pick at my thumbs under the table, but Dean feels the movement, and he takes my hand in his.
“You know when we last spoke I said Patrick was on his last warning?” Grandpa asks, and I nod, not seeing where this is going. I thought something bad had happened but if this is him telling me he’s fired Rick, then isn’t that a good thing?
“Well, the day you called me, I went down to his office to see if he had closed a case he’d been assigned and I found him drinking hard liquor. That was the last straw. There are no rules really for drinking―we all have a glass of scotch now and again―but he was so drunk he could barely stay focused. I gave him his last warning and told him he wouldn’t get another chance. One more incident and he was gone,” he says, pulling his hair roughly before looking at me. Pain and guilt paint his face and my stomach twists.
“That’s a good thing right? You’re one step closer to firing him,” I say, looking between Dean and Grandpa, needing someone to explain.
“He took a few days off to get his shit together. While he was off, I took over the Salvatore accounts and made sure his assistant knew. When he arrived back, he stormed into the office demanding why I’d taken his biggest client. It ended up in a heated discussion, and Lola, God, I’m so sorry,” he says, sounding broken. My eyes fill with tears, but I still don’t understand what’s going on.
“It’s okay, Grandpa. Whatever it is, it’s fine,” I assure him, needing him to be the strong man I know.
“I pride myself in my work, Lola. I’m a lawyer. But he got me so worked up. I was already struggling not to throw him out of my office window, so when he kept demanding why, I explained I didn’t want him fucking up a family friend’s account. I explained the Salvatores had been life-long friends and that I didn’t want him coming here and embarrassing me and my firm.”
I shake my head, wondering where he’s going with this. So far, everything seems fine. Rick didn’t attack him, and he doesn’t know where I am, so I’m unsure why he seems so torn up over this.
“Grandpa, I don’t understand. You got him off the case and one incident away from been fired.”
“Lola,” Dean says gently. When I turn to face him, he looks sad, although his jaw is clenched.
“What am I not clueing in on?” I demand, looking around the table. The only other person who seems oblivious is Lily.
“I think he knows you’re here,” Grandpa whispers and I gasp, sliding my chair back and jumping up. My hands are shaking, as I glance around the room, like I’m waiting for him to pop out from somewhere.
“How?” I ask hoarsely, moving back when Dean tries to comfort me.
“Please sit down,” Grandpa asks gently, looking pained.
“Tell me!” I yell, throwing my hands up. “Please.”
“When I was explaining who the Salvatores were, he got a calculating look in his eyes. He asked if I’d spoken to you, and my suspicions were confirmed,” he explains.
I relax, sitting back in the chair as he takes a breather. “So it’s only a guess? He might not even know I’m here?”
“No. He definitely knows you’re here. I denied talking to you, but then he said Sally said you called. He kicked off, causing a mess of the office, and I had to get him removed from the building. After I returned from dealing with security and the police, Sally had already taken the Salvatore case file. I’ve not seen her since, but I’m assuming she knows she’s fired,” he says, running a hand across his face. “Last night when you called, I was in the middle of reading a report on Rick. I’ve had someone keeping close tabs on him since you first called me, but somehow, last night, he evaded them in a DIY store. We haven’t been able to find his whereabouts since.”
“What does that mean?” I ask dumbly.
“It means that whatever he has planned, you’re involved. I’m so fucking sorry, doll. You were safer pushing me away, not calling me. All I’ve done is put you in danger,” he says, his eyes watering.
“Grandpa,” I whisper, shaking my head. “None of this is your fault. What about Sally? If she’s helping him, maybe she can tell you where he is,” I offer, picking at straws.
Lily’s phone beeps and she sends us an apologetic look before checking it.
“We tried that. She wasn’t at her flat. We tried her mom’s place, and she wasn’t there either. We have no idea where she is,” he says and my stomach sinks, instantly thinking of the worst.
“Maybe they’ve run away together?” Dean adds.
That’s actually a good point.
“Yeah, Sally did hint a few times they were together,” I say, hope rising in my chest.
“Maybe, but I don’t want to risk your safety,” Grandpa says, taking a sip of his tea.
“I’m going to put some food on. Sid and Pagan are on their way,” Lily announces as she stands to leave.
“Make extras. Me and Lola didn’t eat breakfast,” Dean announces to the whole table. I blush at the look my grandpa gives me.
“I’ll get to you two later,” he says, giving Dean a look that would have most men cowering in their boots. “But first I want to talk about what your next move is. After what happened last night, I don’t think going to the police with what we have is wise. From what I read up on about this Jordan Wallace, he has money and is used to getting away with shit. If we go to the police now, as much as what you’re reporting is true, it could possibly get him out of charges or a lower sentence,” he says.
“But he pleaded guilty,” I tell him, confused.
“It doesn’t matter. He could say he was coerced,” he says sadly.
“That’s bullshit,” Dean growls.
“You know how the law works, and how defence lawyers can twist everything. If she suddenly goes in, reporting two assaults, then they’ll think it’s a cry for attention or whatever bullshit they can come up with. We have the hospital records and managed to get CTV footage of you at the hospital,” Grandpa says, and I gasp.
“What?”
“Yeah.” He winces. “I’m sorry, doll. I did tell you I was going to dig into everything, make sure we had enough evidence.”
“So what do we do?” I ask, feeling shaken.
“I know you’re scared, but I think we need to wait and see what Rick does. It’s obvious he’s obsessed with you and that he isn’t letting you go. I believe we can find a cop who will take a statement without pressing charges against Rick just yet. After that, we can file for a restraining order. You’ll also need to sign a form to release your medical records. But until Rick makes another move, I don’t think we have much to go on,” he says. “I feel really awful, doll, and I’m sorry I’ve caused all of this. He’d have no idea you were here if it weren’t for me.”
“Grandpa.” I sigh, getting up and moving around the table to him. “This isn’t your fault. In a way, I think this is a good thing. I’m fed of up of being scared, of looking over my shoulder all the time. I knew he was going to find me eventually, but at least I’m somewhat stronger now,” I tell him, hoping that’s the truth as I wrap my arms around his neck.
Anyone can say they can do something, but the minute they’re faced with the reality, everything changes.
I’m still unsure whether I’m okay with talking to the police about Rick, but if it means getting him out my life, then I’ll be sure. I need to do this, not just for everyone around me but for myself. I need to.
“Okay, I’ll do it,” I whisper, kissing his cheek.
He leans into me, kissing my arms wrapped around him. “Good girl.” I roll my eyes, feeling like a two-year-old. “Now, about you two…,” he starts, and I groan, moving back around to Dean just as the twins walk in.
“Ah, are we in time for the ‘don’t mess with my granddaughter’ speech?” Pagan asks excitedly, rushing over to my grandpa and hugging him.
“Yes, you are.” He chuckles before narrowing his eyes on Dean. “Are you going to marry her?” he demands.
“Grandpa!” I yell, covering my face with embarrassment.
“I need to know, Lola, shush. The men are going to talk now,” he says, and I narrow my eyes on him, making him gulp. “So?” he asks, looking back to Dean.
“Yes, I am. And we’re going to have a family, buy a house, and live happily ever after,” Dean says, answering everything my grandpa was bound to ask.
“Will you take care of her?” Grandpa demands, sitting back in his chair as Lily walks out with food. Mark chuckles before looking at his son, waiting for an answer.
“I’d die for her. I’ll take care of her, worship her and never take her for granted,” Dean answers, not looking affected whatsoever.
Sid makes a whipping noise, laughing.
I roll my eyes.
Pagan giggles.
Grandpa shakes his head.
And Mark snorts at Sid.
“Good lad. Don’t wait long to put a ring on my girl’s finger. Her mother will be dancing in heaven knowing you two kids are together,” he says, and my eyes water.
“We’re not kids,” I snap, trying not to sound affected.
Grandpa rolls his eyes. “You’ll always be my baby girl.”
“Mom. Food!” Sid shouts, and we burst out laughing.
“I’m not a little girl,” I mumble, pouting, and Dean chuckles.
“One last thing. Do you love her?” Grandpa asks, and my eyes widen, wishing he’d shut up.
“With all my heart,” Dean answers immediately, turning towards me. My eyes get lost in his gaze, and I smile longingly at him.
Leaning forward, a wide grin on his lips, he kisses me. It’s not a quick kiss; it’s deep, passionate and full of heat, and I’m close to reaching out and pulling him closer. I’m also pretty sure I moan.
When he pulls away, I’m breathing heavily. In a daze, I turn in my seat, finding everyone’s eyes on us, grinning. I didn’t even notice Lily walk back in with plates of food and I blush furiously, annoyed that Dean makes me lose my mind.
So I do the only rational thing a woman can do.
I kick him in the shin.
“Fuck! What was that for?” he asks, a small grin on his face.
“You know damn well what for,” I snap. “You couldn’t have kissed me like that when, say, we weren’t surrounded by family?”
Everyone bursts out laughing, and after a few seconds, I follow, shaking my head at everyone. The minute I do, Dean is on me, kissing me once again. I readily submit, getting lost in the kiss.
Damn this man and his charm.