“You did?”
“Yeah. We’re going to a safe house?”
“Are you okay with that?”
“Yes. But I’m scared. What if that man tries to get me again?”
He moved Zoey to one leg and retrieved the rubber bracelet from his pocket. He’d intended to discuss the tracker with Jennie first, but with Zoey’s fear of being taken, he’d tell Jennie later. “I have something for you to ensure that doesn’t happen.” He handed her the wristband.
“What’s this?” She took it and slipped it over her hand.
“That’s special made just for you. It has a tracker in it. As long as you wear it, I can find you.”
“Anywhere?” Zoey’s hopeful tone sent daggers into his heart.
“Unfortunately, not anywhere. But within several miles.”
Zoey stretched up and kissed him on the cheek. “Thank you.”
His heart exploded into pieces at the love and trust she put into him. “Why don’t you go help your momma pack your things.”
“Okay.” Zoey jumped down and skipped to the kitchen archway only to turn around. “I’m so happy you’re my friend.” She hurried off.
“Me too, little girl. Me too.” There was no denying it. Jennie and Zoey had stolen his heart. Now, if he could be the man they needed and not fail them.
Not long after Zoey joined her mom, Jennie came back into the living room. “I’m ready.”
She plopped two duffel bags and two backpacks by the front door.
“That was fast.” She’d shocked David at the speed of her prepping.
“I learned long ago to be efficient.”
“Let me call Brandon and tell him we’re ready.” David dialed his partner and made plans for the transfer.
Twenty minutes later, three vehicles sat in the driveway along with a police cruiser parked on the street. Brandon had joined him in the kitchen while Randy loaded the car.
“Are you ladies ready?” he asked.
Zoey clutched her teddy bear and nodded.
David jerked to a halt at the sight of Zoey. She’d always carried herself with age beyond her years. But today, she looked like a child.
Jennie hitched her purse on her shoulder and lifted her gaze to his. “I think we’re good to go.”
He blinked away the realization about Zoey and focused on Jennie. “Here’s the deal. We’ll leave out the back. Stay sandwiched between Randy and me as we head to the gray sedan next to the garage. You and Zoey will get in the back and hunch down in the seat. Once we’re away and I’m sure no one is following us, you can sit up. Brandon will take the other car. While Randy stays at your house making it look like he’s guarding you.”
Randy came bounding up the back steps from taking the bags to the car. “Let’s roll.”
Jennie took a deep breath. “Come on, Zoey.”
They hurried to the car and slipped into the backseat while David moved to the driver’s door. He glanced around to see if anyone was watching. He raised his voice to Randy. “Thanks for staying with the ladies, man. I’ll be back later after I finish the paperwork.”
“Not a problem. I’ll take care of them.”
David held his breath hoping if there were ears, the ruse would work.Please let this work.
He scanned the streets as he drove. No one was visible, but that didn’t mean Jennie and Zoey’s attacker wasn’t out there.
