Elliot’s jaw ticks. “Dilynne tends to have trouble keeping her nose out of other people’s business, but you’d think I’d be used to it by now. Although, not sure why she’s always talking about me.”
“I don’t think she meant anything harmful by it. In fact, she seemed relieved that you avoided more hurt.”
He rolls his eyes, forcing a smile after. “I know you didn’t come in here to talk about one of the most annoying people on the planet, so let’s focus on how I can help you.”
Sensing his annoyance grow, I nod and then direct my focus back on my question. “Okay, but I need to know that what I discuss with you here stays between us.”
“Of course. Anything you share with me is protected by attorney-client privilege, Vienna.”
I let out a sigh of relief. “Good, because I don’t want anyone to get involved that doesn’t need to.”
Elliot studies me with a pinch in his brow. “Do you mean Rhonan?”
I stare back at him, debating whether I should answer him honestly. But my conscience wins out. “Yes.”
“Is there a reason?”
“Not one I should discuss with you.”
He leans back in his chair, folding his hands together over his chest. “You know that if you hire me as your lawyer, you’re going to have to share details with me, Vienna.”
“I know, but I also know that what I’m about to share with you could put both of us in danger if it got out.”
He sits upright in his seat again. “Are you in danger?”
“I—I honestly don’t know, but I figure the best thing I can do is be proactive to keep everyone around me safe.”Most of all, Rhonan and Ellis. “And I do know that you are familiar with being lied to and manipulated, so I thought you might understand.”
He swallows roughly. “Talk to me, Vienna.”
I take a deep breath and then admit why I’m here. “I need you to help me divorce my husband.”
Elliot’s mouth drops open, but he recovers quickly. And before I leave his office, I realize that getting out of my disastrous relationship would come at a greater price than I even imagined.
Chapter 14
Rhonan
My Worst Fear & One Hell of an Apology
Walking into my house after a long shift sends a wave of relief through me. It’s been a long few days at the station, and I’m more than eager for some rest before I have to go back tomorrow.
Brody is on vacation this week, and Daniel’s wife is going into labor, which means I’m working more than I’m used to. Truth be told, the distraction from real life has been nice, but that means I haven’t had much time with Ellis, and I miss my daughter fiercely.
“Ellis? Joanne?” I call out as I step through the front door and shut it behind me, but all I’m met with is silence. Assessing the empty house, I hang my keys on the hook by the door and peer outside to the deck, where I find Joanne pacing around the backyard.
“Joanne?”
She spins to look up at me from the grass below as I make my way toward her. “Oh God, Rhonan.” The desperation in her voice makes my heart rate climb instantly.
I rush down the stairs to her. “What’s wrong?”
Tears cloud her eyes and her bottom lip is trembling. “I—I can’t find Ellis.”
“What do you mean you can’t find Ellis?”
“She was out here playing, and I had to use the bathroom, so I went inside. When I came back out, she was gone. I’m so sorry.”
I pull her into my chest, rubbing her back affectionately. “Hey, it’s okay. I’m sure she’s not far.”
