“Also not an answer.”
I puff out an exasperated breath, but before I can say anything, there’s a knock at the door. We both jump up, but Paige remains in front of the couch while I sprint to the door and open it. I meet Rafael’s eyes, then land against his chest hard enough to make him grunt.
“You okay?”
Me? AmIokay? God, I’ll cry. “Areyou?”
“I’m fine. Hey, Paige.” His hand rubs softly against my back, and my fists are probably hurting the skin of his back where I’m clutching at him. “Let’s go in. What do you think?”
I nod, though I can’t fathom the thought of letting go of him now. I was so worried something had happened to him, but he’s okay. He’s all in one piece.Mine.My Rafael.
“Okay,” he says, awkwardly turning around and walking without letting me go. I don’t protest but let him drag me inside the house as I inhale the scent of his chest for a few more moments.
Once the door closes, I reluctantly loosen my arms, my hands still roaming over his body to make sure no part of him is hurt. “What happened? I’ve been worried out of my mind.”
“I know, I…” Eyes shifting to Paige, he says, “Vanessa’s in custody.”
Paige sniffles, and I join her by the couch, rubbing her back. “So it’s true?” she asks. “I mean, not that I didn’t believe you, but—”
“It’s true. They’re charging her with multiple homicide, stalking, breaking and entering… among other things.” He presses his lips tight. “I’m sorry.”
Paige looks small and fragile, her eyes glassy with unshed tears. She stands on shaky legs, her fists balled tightly at her sides. “Okay. I’m going home.”
“What? No, Paige. Please stay.”
“This house is at full capacity already,” she says, gathering her things. “And besides, no offense, but I really don’t feel like being around a couple right now.”
I watch Rafael, whose eyes dart to me, but he doesn’t say a word.
“Are you sure?” I insist. “There’s plenty of room, and we promise to keep the… romance to a minimum.”
“I’m sure.” She gives me a quick hug. “I’ll call you in the morning, okay?”
“Yeah.” I walk her to the door, then watch her step away, a heavy weight settling in my stomach.
I close the door slowly and lean against it. I should’ve done more, said something better. She’s always been there for me, and now that she’s the one who’s in need, I feel perfectly useless.
“How’s she doing?” Rafael’s voice pulls me from my thoughts.
Turning around, I see him standing a few steps away, hands shoved into his leather jacket pockets, his brow creased with concern.
“I’m worried about her,” I admit, crossing my arms. “But I’m also just… so relieved you’re okay.”
The space between us shrinks as his eyes search mine. “I’m fine, Freckles. I promise. Are you?”
I nod, though my chest feels tight. “Your texts are embarrassing. ‘All good’?” I playfully smack his chest. “That’s not even remotely helpful.”
“Sorry. I had to say something quickly before they took my phone, because I…kind ofgot arrested.”
“Youwhat?”
“Well, I had to explain to Chief Donovan how I knew Vanessa was guilty, and… serial killer or not, breaking and entering is illegal.”
Holy crap. Holyfuckingcrap! “And he arrested you?” I gasp. “Oh my God, will I be arrested next?”
“Yeah, ’cause I ratted you out to the cops,” he says flatly. “Of course not, Scarlett. I told them I was alone, and Vanessa confirmed it. Guess it’s the one upside of her being psychotically obsessed with you.”
I exhale, but the relief is quick to vanish. “So… wait, what happens next? You won’t go to prison, right? Will they take your PI license? Oh my God, Rafael, will you—”
