Page 21 of The One for Forever

“Because we’re the only attorneys who’ve been threatened by name?”

Rex nods matter-of-factly. He’s been using his official voice with me, and I appreciate that. His businesslike demeanor actually makes this feel less…personal. “Max will see to Lana’s protection. And I’m now formally assigned to you.”

I gulp. “Okay.”

A glance. “Will that work for you?”

“Why wouldn’t it?”

“I’ll be with you as much as possible, which includes escorting you to and from work and to the courtroom.”

“But…at night…”

His mouth curves. “At night, I’ll be off duty unless there’s a pressing need.”

“Pressing need,” I repeat. “Got it.”Stop thinking about pressing needs. “I’d prefer going back to my own place soon. My own bed. Do you think it’ll be safe to do that?”

He considers. “I’ll have my guys assess whether your apartment is going to be safe enough. I know that’s not a firm answer, but it’s the best I have at this point. Let’s get to your place, and we’ll take a look.”

“Thanks again. For everything.”

“No problem. You don’t have to keep thanking me.”

“Because it’s your job,” I say, reminding myself.

“And because you’re family,” he says firmly.

“That too.”

I can do this. I’ll have to. Because there’s no more avoiding Rex Easton.

My phone buzzes, and I take it out to check the notification. Lark just texted.

Any longing glances yet?

Go away.

Whatever. You love me. And you’ll really love me when I turn out to be right about Mr. Distinguished Bodyguard.

“What’s that?” Rex asks.

I almost fumble the phone as I cover the screen. “What?”

“That piece of paper.” We stop at a red light, and Rex reaches over. He grabs something on my phone and tugs at it. A tiny piece of paper pulls free. “It was stuck in the case,” Rex says.

I take the paper and unfold it. “What the heck?”

It says,I have information on the Hayworth murder. Please contact me. And then a phone number.

A car honks behind us, and Rex drives forward before pulling over quickly to the side. “Can I see that?”

I hand him the note. He lifts an eyebrow. “How mysterious.”

He’s being all cool and calm about this, but I can’t help getting excited. “Wait, do you think someone put this in my phone case last night when my purse was missing?” The possibilities are swirling in my head. This is the kind of intrigue that only happens on TV. And for that reason, I should be cautious.

But come on. A secret witness?

Why would they decide to contactme?

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