He sat down, tenderly glancing at Bella.
“Who is she?”
“My daughter, Bella.”
“She looks like her mother.” He was as uncertain of what to say as I was.
“Jacob Jones was released from prison.” I did my best to keep emotion from my voice.
“I know.” While his voice was low and husky, the edge of anger was evident. Even his jaw was clenched.
“He threatened me.” The moment I blurted out the reason I’d arrived on his doorstep, the judge’s facial expression changed to anger.
“What?” The snarl in his voice echoed in my ears. “Your identity was supposed to be protected.”
“He didn’t do so directly, at least that I can prove, but I know he was outside my apartment. That was after I had a mysterious phone call from an unknown number. You know the type. When you know someone is on the other end of the line, but they don’t say anything?”
His chest rose and fell. “Fuck.”
“Did you know he was being released?”
“Hell, no. If I’d had any idea, I would have fought to keep it from happening. Who told you?”
“Ms. Guthrie called. She tried to be calm, telling me I would be fine and my name was highly secured, but I sensed in her voice how upset she was.” Her call had been fraught with fear even though she’d tried to hide it.
“You’re certain it was him standing outside your building?”
My nerves were starting to get the best of me. “I didn’t see his face so I can’t be certain, but I felt it. A creepy-crawly feeling when you know something is real, but you can’t place the exact reason why. I’m certain that sounds paranoid.”
“No, it doesn’t. Not at all. Jacob is a very bad man.” He rolled his eyes as if the description of him wasn’t strong enough.
“Maybe I should go, Judge.”
“First of all, there’s no need to go anywhere. Second, I’m no longer a judge on the case but I am your friend. Call me Hudson.”
I sensed he wanted to avoid being reminded of our night of passion. I couldn’t blame him. I’d worried he could face certain consequences if anyone had discovered we’d spent the night together. That’s why I hadn’t said a word to anyone.
“Hudson,” I repeated. “That suits you.” I sensed neither of us knew what to say.
“Do you feel comfortable telling me everything you know?”
“I think so. Everything is a bit muddled. After he disappeared, I waited for a few minutes then fled. I was careful, checking therearview mirror. Thankfully, I didn’t see anyone following me. I don’t know what to do. Will he come after me?”
I could tell by the array of emotions on his face he was debating telling me the truth.
“Contrary to what you witnessed in the courtroom… Hudson, I’m not as fragile as you think. I was very disturbed about what I saw in that dark alley, but I didn’t need convincing that testifying was the right thing to do. I’m scared, but I won’t allow that monster to ruin my life. I didn’t allow it then and I refuse to now. So if you don’t mind, please answer me.”
His features softened, but his eyes burned into mine just like they’d done eight months before. “I think if there’s any chance of a new trial, he will try and silence you.”
“But there’s more. Isn’t there?”
“Maybe. From what I know about Mr. Jones, the man is vindictive. He doesn’t mind erasing his enemies from this earth.”
At least he’d told me the truth. I sat back, holding the glass so tightly my fingers were numb. “Thank you for not sugarcoating it. I might need advice on how to establish a contract for guardianship of Bella. You know. In case something happens to me.” The thought brought a choking sound. I couldn’t believe I’d just made the statement out loud.
I could tell he was shocked by my frankness. “I don’t think you need to worry about that.” Reaching over, he gripped my hand and the same blast of heat and fire roared through both. Very slowly he removed his hand, the moment surprisingly awkward.
“But I do need to worry. I don’t have anyone. My parents died in a car accident a few months ago and I don’t have any brothers or sisters, aunts or uncles. I have a friend I plan on talking to. She’s a good lady and would take care of Bella if anything should happen to me. Then I have my two bosses at the diner I work at. They love Bella like their own.” Another cracking sound left my throat. As I brought the drink to my lips, I hated how much my entire body was shaking. I was usually so much stronger.
