Page 189 of Chandelier Sin
I didn’t like the fact that I found it necessary to look for any new signs of abuse—bruises or any other indication she was trying to conceal an injury.
I hated that she kept going back to him, even as I understood her reasoning.
Locating a child in a foreign country took time. But if anyone could find her, Shay Gardner and his team could. They’d tracked the child through customs and were currently working to find Eloise’s last whereabouts.
Eve looked around furtively. “Anyone else here?”
“Just my demons.”
She exhaled sharply. “Any updates?”
I gave a slow shake of my head, saying without words that, no, there was no news on her daughter. I watched her reaction, waiting for her to become tearful.
She merely forced a smile.
“No need to come here.” I felt like an asshole for saying it. “I promised to contact you once we have news.”
She had to know it put her at risk.
“It’s taking too long.”
“Sorry. I know it seems that way.”
Eve paused as she read my expression. She wasn’t used to compassion.
“Want a drink? Wine?”
She shook her head. “I’m driving.”
“Of course.” I was an idiot for suggesting it, but I wanted to dull her pain.
“I know what you’re doing.” She turned to look at me. “I can help.”
“Well, that’s vague.”
She let out a sigh. “I will have a glass of water, please.”
I opened the fridge and pulled out a bottle of sparkling water, and then poured some in a glass.
God, even the night adored her, casting moonlight over her face as though it too couldn’t keep its radiance off her skin, highlighting her shiny brunette locks.
For a moment I became lost in my thoughts, considering what kind of ring I’d give her. Then I handed her the glass.
She moved closer to the window and stared at the beach. “Pretty view.”
“I think so.”
“It’s peaceful here.”
“Can be.”
She leaned against the counter. “I meant in here.”
I gave a nod to accept the compliment. “I highly recommend living near the beach.”
“There’s this place called Manchester by the Sea, it’s a secret haven—”
“I know it. A beach community.”
