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Stuart catches me. “Hang on,” he says, and I grab him, trying to find my balance.

“Take care of her,” Derek says.

Stuart nods. “I’ll get her to Mariska and be right down.”

It’s the last they’re able to say before the group of cops escorts him out of the building.

Chapter 10: Unmasked

Derek

It’s been a week since Dex’s party, and nothing has changed. It’s driving me crazy. I keep texting Melissa, debriefing her on my days. She continues not responding. I keep digging through these records, looking for any clue as to who’s behind the letters. We continue coming back with nothing. It’s starting to feel pointless, and the strain is wearing on all of us. Patrick’s ready to set a trap, and for the first time since I’ve known him, Stuart agrees with his brother.

I’m turning over the details of their plan when my phone buzzes. One glance, and I’m surprised to see it’s Star. Ever since that night in my condo, I’ve given her a wide berth. I sleep at Stuart’s place and spend most of my time there or here. When we do speak, it’s very basic: the latest on the case, if she needs anything, how Cammie is adjusting.

Snatching up my phone, I slide a finger across the face. “Derek here.”

Panic fills my ear. “It’s over! He knows we’re here! Oh god!”

I’m out of my seat, snatching my blazer off my chair and heading for the door as she’s still speaking. “Calm down. Where’s Cammie?”

“I’m holding her.” Sounds of movement, and the little girl makes a fussy noise.

“Are you in my condo?” Waving at Nikki, I’m out the double-glass doors.

“Yes. We’re in the condo, alone—”

“Go across the hall and stay with Mariska until I get there. Can you do that? Is Mariska home?”

“I-I think so?” Her voice cracks, and I hear the tears coming.

“Star, listen to me.”

A sniff. “Hm?”

“Don’t cry. Think of Cammie. She doesn’t know what’s going on. You need to stay calm.” Fishing in my pocket, I pull out the keys to the Audi.

“Okay...”

“I’ll stay on the phone with you until you get to Stuart’s place. Go ahead.”

More rustling noises, another little fuss from Cammie. I hear a door opening and closing followed by soft tapping. Mariska’s high voice greets her in the background.

“Are you in?” I’m on the road, making my way through traffic.

“I’m at Stuart’s.” She already sounds calmer. “We’re here together.”

“Good. Ask Mariska to lock the door and don’t let anyone in until I get there. I’m five minutes away.”

“Okay.” She speaks to Mariska, but I cut in.

“I’m hanging u

p now.”

“Derek!” She’s back to panicky.

My stomach tightens. “What is it?”