“We need to bring him in,” Carson said. “Right now. Before he escalates further.”
“Already calling for backup.” Finn had his phone out. “But, Carson? This note.You can’t protect her forever.That’s a direct threat against you too. Eugene knows you’re involved. Knows where to hit you.”
“I don’t care.”
“You should. Because if Eugene sees you as an obstacle, he might come after you to get to her.”
Let him try. Carson would welcome the confrontation. Would welcome the chance to put Eugene down permanently, legally, and without remorse.
But first, he needed to get back to Nora. Needed to make sure she was safe. Needed to tell her about this new evidence.
Needed to apologize for pushing her away when all he’d wanted to do was pull her closer.
His phone rang. Unknown number.
Carson answered. “Black.”
“Detective.” Eugene’s voice was smooth, cultured, completely calm. “I see you found my storage unit. Did you like the photographs? I’m particularly proud of the one from last Tuesday. The blue sweater really brought out her eyes.”
Every muscle in Carson’s body tensed. “Where are you?”
“Somewhere safe. Unlike poor Nora. She must be so scared, hiding in your apartment. Does she know why you kissed her and pushed her away? Does she know you’re too damaged to actually care about anyone?”
Ice flooded Carson’s veins. “How do you—”
“I know everything, Detective. I’ve been watching you both. Learning your patterns. Waiting for the perfect moment.” Eugene’s voice dropped lower. “And that moment is coming soon. Very soon. Tell Nora I said hello.”
The line went dead.
Carson stared at his phone, his heart hammering.
Eugene knew Nora was at his apartment. Knew about the kiss. Which meant he’d been watchingthe apartment. Had maybe been watching them through the windows.
Or worse—had cameras inside.
“Finn, I need to go. Now.” Carson was already running for his car. “Eugene just called. He knows where Nora is. I need to get back there before—”
His phone rang again. This time, Nora’s name on the screen.
Carson answered, already sprinting. “Nora?”
“Carson.” Her voice was terrified. Shaking. “Someone’s trying to get into the apartment. They’re picking the lock. I can hear them. I—”
“Hide. Right now. Bathroom, lock the door, call 911. I’m ten minutes out. Stay on the line with me.”
“Carson, I’m scared—”
“I know. But you’re going to be okay. I promise. Just hide and stay quiet. I’m coming.”
He ran to his car, phone pressed to his ear, listening to Nora’s terrified breathing on the other end.
And prayed he’d get there in time.
Because losing her—failing to protect her—wasn’t an option.
Not when he’d finally found someone worth fighting for.
Chapter 9
