Page 16 of Fated Love with You

“She hasn’t come home yet, sir,” he says. “I’m still waiting for her to show.”

“You’re sure she’s not there right now?”

“I swear, sir.”

I end the call.

“If you’re worried about your slight miscalculation, don’t,” Chester says. “I’ll handle it.”

“No.” I head toward the garage. “I will.”

End of Episode 5

Conundrum

EPISODE 6

Autumn

My fingers grip the heated steering wheel as I speed down 93-North.

Since Kylie is now four cities away, I’ve stopped at Target to grab blankets, snacks, and plenty of “keep-me-up” coffee like she’s asked. Ever the paranoid, she’s also requested to meet me at a public bar and follow me home from a distance.

“Just trust me on this, okay? You have no idea who you’re dealing with…”

With every mile, my heart begs me to turn around and let the facts about Ryder remain as they are, but I’m too close now.

Way too close.

I can’t get the sound of Kylie’s warnings out of my head, and every time I try, Ryder’s “You have no one to tell” overpowers them.

“New developments in the recent assault in Seattle’s Sweet Lane subdivision,” a soft voice suddenly sifts through the radio. “Today, we’re speaking to the residents of the wealthy area where established financier Nathaniel Taylor was recently the victim of a home invasion and near-fatal assault.”

“Neighbors are turning in footage from their ring cameras and assisting the authorities as much as they can, but the police chief insists that there are no leads at this time.”

“Things like this don’t happen in our neighborhood.” Julie’s voice catches me off guard. “We are absolutely devastated and are determined to make sure this never happens here again.”

“Other neighbors are voicing concern about the violent attack,” the reporter says, “but one thing is for sure. Mr. Taylor is beloved and heavily supported.”

“He’s a huge pillar of our community.” “He’s helped manage my life and finances for years after I had an accident.” “He’s an amazing man who has never?—”

I change the station.

Pulling into the parking lot, I settle between a semi-truck and a sports car.

I made it.

Kylie

Okay, I’m still a way out. Can you get us a booth and ice water for me? (Did you remember to buy strong coffee?)

Sure. (Of course)

Cigarette smoke and indie rock music greet me as I walk through the bar’s doors.

The cherry red booths that line the walls are taken, so I settle for a seat at the counter and signal for the bartender.

“Hello there, beautiful.” He smiles. “What can I get for you tonight?”