She smiles over at me. “Just going to the farmers’ market in Nashville with a friend, and then I have some work I need to catch up on. What about you?”
“I have to go into the office for a little while and get some work done. Or my paralegal slash receptionist will strangle me,” I joke, but I’m a little scared Mandi really would if I don’t get my shit together.
With a laugh, Lily notes, “I think I like her already.”
“I’m sure you’ll get to meet her eventually.” I hesitate about what I need to say next, not wanting to scare her. “Lily, I need you to be careful today. Please pay attention to your surroundings and try not to be alone. As much as I’m telling myself that guy last night was here for something relating to Blake, I don’t want to take any chances.”
Her face pales, and her throat muscles flex around her swallow. “That’s been on my mind since you asked me last night. I’m also worried about that.”
The look on her face is a stab to the heart. “If it makes you feel better, I can come with you.”
She recovers slightly and waves her hand dismissively. “No, it’s okay. I’ll be smart about it. Besides, I’ll be in a very public place. Surely, no one would try anything with a bunch of people around. And I’ll call you if anything happens.”
I smile at her offering to call me, as if it’s the most natural thing for her to do. “Thank you. That would make me feel better. And if all else fails, I have some friends who run a security company. We can get you a bodyguard.”
Her laugh sounds strained. “I don’t think that’s necessary yet. But it’s good to know that’s an option.” She still looks a little freaked out. But I’d rather her be safe and vigilant than not have this conversation.
I nod. “Text me when you are done. Before I leave for the office, I’ll get you all set with security. I’ll text you instructions on how to enter and exit the garage. You can continue to park in those guest parking spots that you parked in last night.”
“Can I make dinner tonight? As a thank you?” Her question sounds unsure, as if I would ever turn down a beautiful woman cooking for me.
“Absolutely, send me the grocery list, and I will pick up whatever you need.”
With a nod and a sweet smile, Lily leaves me to get ready for the day. I press my hands to the cool granite and drop my head below my shoulders.
I’m so fucked.
15
Lily
Nerves flip in my stomach as I turn off the engine, Chris’s concerns about my safety echoing in my ears. My eyes fly up to the rearview mirror, looking for anyone who might be after me, but there are just a few couples and families milling around the parking lot.
No one is suspicious. Just normal people doing normal things.
“This is fine. Everything’s fine. Nothing will happen to me here.” Despite the trepidation I feel, there’s a budding giddiness within me that feels wrong but also…perfectly right all at the same time. “If something happens to me, I’ll call Chris.”
That thought gives me enough solace to open the car door and step outside. Common sense tells me I should be hesitant to stay with Chris, but the fear of being alone orwith anyone else screams that this is absolutely the right choice. As unconventional as it is.
I swing my purse over my shoulder, lock my car, and walk toward the building. This is a half-indoor and half-outdoor, year-round farmers’ market, and since it’s a little chilly this morning, Anna opted to wait inside for me. I almost asked her to come to the parking lot, but I’d prefer not to tell anyone about last night if I can avoid it. And I know she would ask why if I had made that request.
When I’m halfway to the door, my resolve starts to slip, and I quicken my pace. Not enough to draw attention, just enough that it looks like I’m trying to get inside to warm up. I whip open the door and hurry inside. Spotting Anna across the open area, I wave as I make my way to her. “Hi! So sorry that I’m a little late.”
She gives me a hug. “Don’t worry about it at all. I’m just glad you could make it.”
“Me too. This was much needed.”
With a sympathetic smile, she hooks her arm in mine and drags me to some booths down from where we are. “Good, let’s go. I’ve got money to burn.”
Grateful for my friend’s infectious mood, I allow her to lead me wherever she wants to go. There isn’t anything I need, as this was more to just get out of the house and not be alone.
Except…I’m not alone now since I’ll be staying with Chris.
My cheeks heat at the thought of staying at his place. When I went up to bed the night before, all I could do was toss and turn, thinking about him sleeping just a few feet away. I lay there thinking about how he was the first person I thought of when I was in trouble. And how he didn’t hesitate to come to my rescue. Maybe that’s why I’m not findingit odd to stay with him, knowing that he will help me the moment I need him without questions or stipulations.
At least for now.
I don’t understand it. I don’t understand him or my reaction to him, but it’s undeniable and strong. Part of me thinks this is the universe’s cruel joke. I meet a man who I feel an attraction to that I’ve never felt before, and it’s right after my husband is murdered, and he’s my attorney to defend me should I be charged for said murder.
