But Fergus was dead, Jared was back in Seattle to claim his rightful place as leader of the family. And it was time to clean house.
There was just one thing North wanted to do while Jared was busy. He snuck up the stairs. No one would have thought to have told her, he was sure.
Staff were rushing through the house, looking terrified, probably wondering what this meant for them.
If this meant they were free.
But they should know that when you signed on to work for the Bartolli family it was for life. He moved up the stairs and intoherroom. It was dark. There wasn’t even a light on under the closet door.
He strode to the closet and opened it, leaning down to cover her mouth as she tried to scream. He didn’t think she could see him.
“Be quiet.” He disguised his voice.
He didn’t know why he didn’t want her knowing it was him. Maybe because he knew Jared would beat his ass for this.
Perhaps he’d even go further than that.
Who knew?
But gut instinct told him to get her out. So he was going with it.
“Fergus Bartolli is dead. You need to leave. Now. Don’t even take any clothes. Here is a grand. Don’t ever come back.”
He drew the money that he’d put in his pocket and shoved it in her hand.
There was a strange spark inside him. Tiny and he barely felt it.
Was it pity?
Regret?
No.
This was just what had to be done.
Angie was barely awake.
She stared down at the money in her hand. The person was already gone, and she’d turned on the closet light.
Was he . . . was he telling the truth?
Was Fergus dead?
If so, it was her every wish come true. She’d never expect another Christmas present or wish on a falling star.
Not that she’d ever really had Christmas presents. Or wished on many falling stars. You didn’t see a lot of stars in the middle of the city.
But what if it was a lie? What if it was a way to trick her? Test her?
Her breathing hitched.
Could she go through it again? Would she survive his punishment?
A whimper escaped her.
Get it together, Angie.
Why would he trick you like this?
