Page 132 of Illicit

Beyond sucks.

But I did it.

Rocco and I also told my mom that I’m moving in with him as soon as he closes on his house. Then, because I’d had enough, I begged her to tell Dad.

She agreed.

Sammie announced she is officially the favorite child, even if it only lasts a day or two.

Rocco had some errands to run, and I came to my room to pack.

What else am I going to do?

Well, look for a job, I guess.

I frown when my cell vibrates with a call.

No one ever calls me but my parents. Not even Sammie.

Everyone in my life knows that unless someone is dying, I’m strictly a text girl.

I have no idea who it is, but it doesn’t even say Unknown Caller. It doesn’t say anything other than incoming call.

I send it to voicemail.

Two minutes later, I get a text.

Unknown – Teagan-the-baddy-Coleman. Answer your phone.

What the heck?

This goes against everything I am. But curiosity also runs through my veins.

Me – Um, who is this?

Unknown – I have news you’re going to want. On Heath Hayes.

Oh, wow.

My phone immediately rings again, and this time I can’t connect the call fast enough.

“Hello?”

“Thank you for answering. Uncle Sam doesn’t exactly give us Caller ID.”

“Sorry. I can’t help it. I don’t answer calls without a name. You have news about Mr. Hayes?”

“I’m well, thanks. Got home safely. The wife and kids are thriving. Even the damn cat is living its best life. The Virginia countryside is as peaceful as ever. I’m happy.”

I frown. “Um, that’s great.”

Cole sighs. “Conversation is a lost art.”

“I can converse all day long. I’m just very anxious to know if Mr. Hayes is okay.”

“The target has been extracted. He’s with my contact on a private jet, and they just landed in Spain.”

I drop my face into my other hand as tears spring to my eyes.

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