Page 49 of My Destiny

“But until then, what? I’m a prisoner? I need to go back to work, my students rely on me.”

“We’ll work something out.”

“I can’t afford to lose my job,” she says.

“I understand that, I can have Chris take you if need be.” My gut tells me not to let her out of this building until he’s found, but the last thing I want is her feeling like a prisoner. “It’s not safe to be out there on your own.”

“I couldn’t ask that of you. You’ve already done enough.” Uncrossing her legs, she moves to the edge of the bed and stands. Her back is now to me, as she gazes out the window. “Maybe it’s best if I move to a hotel.”

Rising, I close the distance between us and place my hand on her shoulder, turning her until she’s facing me. “Stay,” I plead. “You don’t have to share my bed—my offer has no strings attached, I promise. Just let me care for you until he’s found. I’d never forgive myself if any harm came to you.” Tears well in her big brown eyes, and it tugs at my heartstrings. I want to see her smiling again, because it tears me up seeing her like this. Pulling her into my arms, I hold her tight. “Please stay.”

Picking up my phone, I dial Chris’s number. “How’s things there?” He is under strict instructions not to let her out of his sight. I even asked him to escort her inside the dance studio, to be safe. Who knows if this maniac is lurking in the shadows, just waiting to pounce? Chris is an ex-soldier, so I know he can handle himself. I trust that man with my life.

“Good. She’s inside. I’m just sitting out the front, but there doesn’t appear to be any movement.”

“I’m glad. Keep me updated.”

“Will do,” he says.

“And Chris.”

“Yes, Mr. Cavanagh.”

“Guard her with your life.”

“You have my word.”

I can’t think straight. Neither the detectives nor Mike, the private investigator I hired, have yet to find a lead on Jake’s location. Unlocking the top drawer of my desk, I pull out Brooke’s old phone and turn it on. I haven’t checked it since yesterday, so I’m curious to see if anything more has been sent.

The phone alerts me of a new message the moment it comes to life.

I’m going to ruin you, just like you ruined me, BITCH!

Reading it makes my blood run cold. If he harms one hair on her head, his life won’t be worth living. Leaning forward, I buzz my secretary. “Rose.”

“Yes, Mr. Cavanagh.”

“Something’s come up, and I have to go out for a few hours. You’ll need to reschedule my appointments.”

“Okay.”

“Do you want me to move them up for later today?”

“Please.” I’ll work late if need be. By then Brooke will be home and safe, and I’ll be able to relax.

“Oh, and Rose, I need you to courier something to Mike for me.”

“No problem.”

Standing, I grab my suit jacket from the back of my chair and put it on. I can’t just sit here. Jake found out where she lives, so I presume he’s familiar with all of her movements. I place Brooke’s phone on Rose’s desk as I pass.

“Send him this, but I need it done immediately.” She nods as she pulls a large envelope out of her desk drawer.

“Do you want me to enclose a note with it?”

“No, I’ll call him now and explain.”

I hand the driver a fifty-dollar-note and exit the taxi. “Keep the change.”