Page 112 of With this Ring

“He didn’t say where he was going?”

“I asked.” For a few seconds, Brenda couldn’t speak, before finally managing, “He wouldn’t tell me. Just kept saying everything would be okay.”

Determined to keep her client safe, Sasha redirected the conversation. “I know I already asked you this, but is there anywhere you can go? Don’t you have a sister?”

“I won’t put anyone else in danger.”

Though she understood the sentiment, Sasha’s only concern was for her client. “In that case, I’m going to make arrangements to get you to safety.”

“I’m not leaving.” Stubborn determination filled Brenda’s voice.

“Listen to me… Please.” She forced measured calm into her words. “Mr. Santos will do better if he knows you’re safe.”

For a moment, the older woman was silent.

Pressing her advantage, Sasha added, “Whatever is going on, your husband doesn’t need to worry about you right now.”

“I’m not sure.”

At least she wasn’t saying no. “How do you think he’d feel if he knew that man had been in your house? And if he comes back, do you really want to be there?” Sasha hated using scare tactics, but nothing was more important than Brenda’s safety.

Without waiting for a response, Sasha changed her tone, making it more imploring as she asked, “Please, will you pack a bag? And then leave the house as quickly as you can? Just start driving away from the house while I find somewhere for you to go where you’ll be safe.”

“I—”

“Please, Mrs. Santos. This is important.”

“But what about my husband?”

“We’ll protect your husband, as well.” She offered a quick prayer that she’d be able to do that.

In the background, Sasha heard the woman’s footsteps, as if she was pacing.

“I want to talk to Felix.”

“I understand that. I promise you’ll be able to stay in contact with him.”

Another sound reached her, like a door opening, maybe. A closet, she hoped, meaning the woman was packing.

“Where should I go?”

“I’ll call you back with instructions.”

“The airport,” Gregorio said immediately.

In the dark compartment of the SUV, she turned in his direction.

“Long-term parking,” he added.

Solid plan. Nodding, she repeated his instructions to her client.

“No.” Panic made her voice shake. “I won’t leave the state.”

“You’re not actually getting on a plane.” At least she assumed not.

Gregorio nodded his agreement.

The airport would have good security, and a place to leave her car where it wouldn’t be easily found.

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