“Rachel, listen to me.” He moves closer. “I trust them. With my life. With your life. With Tommy’s life. If you’re with them, I know you’re safe. I can go to Alaska without worrying.”
“You want me to do this so you can leave guilt-free.”
“I want you to do this so I can leave knowing my sister isn’t going to die in a fire.” His voice cracks. “Please. Just consider it.”
I look at Cole, Theo, and Marco. They’re watching me with varying expressions—Cole’s protective intensity, Theo’s earnest hope, Marco’s practical efficiency.
“Our security system is top-grade,” Marco says. “Motion sensors, cameras, direct line to the station. If anyone approaches the house, we know about it.”
“And we’re connected with the fire department and police,” Theo adds. “Response time would be under two minutes for anything.”
“You’d have your own space,” Cole continues. “Your own room, Tommy’s room. We’re not trying to intrude on your life. Just keep you safe.”
They’ve planned this and actually thought it through.
The part I’m desperately trying to ignore flutters at the idea of living with them, seeing them every day, and being close to all three of them.
“I need to think about it,” I say finally.
“How long?” Jake asks.
“I don’t know. This is a huge decision. I need to talk to Tommy. I need to—”
“We need an answer soon,” Marco says. “The longer you’re unprotected, the more danger you’re in.”
“I know.” My hands are shaking. “I just need time.”
“Take tonight,” Cole offers. “But Rachel? This is the smart move. You know it is.”
Jake looks at me. “This is the compromise. You move in with them, and I go to Alaska. It’s the only way this works.”
“So, you’re saying if I don’t do this, you’re staying.”
“I’m saying if you don’t do this, I can’t leave in good conscience.” He softens his voice. “Please. Let them help you.”
I look at Tommy, still building with his blocks. Oblivious to this entire conversation. Oblivious to the danger we’re in.
“I’ll think about it,” I say. “That’s all I can promise right now.”
“Fair enough.” Jake turns to the three men. “Thank you. For offering this. It means a lot.”
My chest tightens.
“I should check on Dorothy,” I say, needing to escape this conversation. “Make sure she’s okay at her niece’s place.”
“She’d want you to say yes,” Marco says. “She’d insist on it.”
“I know.” I grab my keys. “I still need to think.”
I head out before anyone can stop me, leaving the four of them standing in my living room.
In my car, I grip the steering wheel and try to steady my breathing.
Move in with them. All three of them. Under one roof.
It’s the smart choice. The logical choice. The option that keeps Tommy safe and lets Jake pursue his dream.
It’s also terrifying.
