Page 257 of Champagne Nights

“Yeah. Why?”

“You’re fidgeting as if you’re really nervous.”

“Oh. I didn’t realize. I’m not nervous. Why would I be?”

I shrugged my shoulders as he opened the door and climbed out. Stepping out of the car, I stood in front of the large all-white home and admired its breathtaking beauty. Taking my bag from Frankie, I wheeled it to the porch and waited for him.

“He said just to walk in when we get here.” I read Frankie’s lips.

Placing my hand on the handle, I pushed the button down and opened the door.

“Wow. Wow,” I said as I looked over at Frankie.

“You’re not kidding. Look at this freaking palace.”

“Is the owner home?” I asked as I set down my suitcase in the foyer.

“Oh. He said to take a seat in the living room when we got here.”

“Don’t you think this is weird? And I don’t see any special artwork up anywhere.”

I fell onto the comfortable and luxurious white couch. This was definitely a place where I could unwind and relax. I already felt the stress leaving my body.

I looked over at Frankie, who was standing in the middle of the room. His eyes diverted to the left, and when I turned my head, I saw Henry standing there.

“Hello, beautiful,” he signed with a smile.

I jumped up from the couch as my eyes widened. Looking over at Frankie, I stared into his apologetic eyes.

“I’m so sorry, Ellie. Please forgive me.”

“You little piece of shit!” I shouted. “Did you lie to me?!”

“Damn it, Henry. I told you! I’m sorry, Ellie,” he said as he shook his head and walked out of the living room.

Running after him, Henry grabbed my arm and stopped me.

“He’s leaving, and you’re staying,” he signed with his other hand.

“Fuck you! I am not staying here. This is low, Henry. Even for you.”

I freed myself from his grip and went into the foyer. Frankie was gone, and so was my suitcase.

“Where is my suitcase?!” I shouted at Henry.

“I put it away.”

I frantically ran through the house, trying to find it as tears filled my eyes. Fuck it. I didn’t need it. I ran down the stairs, and as soon as I opened the front door, Henry stood there and gripped my arms as he stared at me.

“Calm down,” he slowly spoke. “I’ll explain everything.”

“So what? You’re kidnapping me?” I tried to get out of his grip as my heart raced.

“No.”

“Really? You secretly have Frankie bring me here, took my suitcase, and won’t let me leave! Sure sounds like a kidnapping to me.” I got in his face and caught a whiff of his scent.

“Please, Ellie. Just calm down. Let me explain things and show you around. If you still want to leave after that, you can. I promise you.”

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