Page 20 of Objection
“Mr. Wellington, I —”
“Come with me.” It wasn’t a question. We exited the car, my hand leading the way as we entered my home, bypassed the dining room and headed towards the stairs.
If she had any questions or hesitations, I felt none from her. I led her to a room down the hall and led her inside.
“You’ll stay here from now on.” I spoke softly.
“Bullshit.” The word shocked us both. I hadn’t expected that kind of reaction, let alone that kind of language from her.
“Language, Ms. Adams, and it wasn’t a suggestion,” I urged.
“You can’t expect me to stay here, with a stranger.” Her argument was valid. I didn’t want her to feel unsafe, even if she felt that way with me.
“Do you feel unsafe with me?” I asked with genuine interest.
“No, not at all. But I will not put you out or be an inconvenience. I simply refuse.” she asserted.
“It’s mutually beneficial,” I pushed right back with a small smile.
“How on earth could me being here be beneficial to you?” There was such tiredness, such pain in her eyes. It made me want to take it all away. I clenched my fists tightly at my side in an attempt to stop myself from taking her into my arms and making her feel safe, if only for a moment.
“You need a place to live, Ms. Adams. I need you available to work when I need you to. Plus, this place is too quiet most of the time.” I made up reasons. I needed something completely different from the things I said.
“Fine.” I was surprised at the agreement, but I wasn’t about to question it.
“And I need to know you’re safe,” I admitted as I walked from the room, letting my words hang in the air. Her safety was all that mattered.
That, and finding the scumbag who did this to her. But that would have to wait until tomorrow. She was traumatized enough for one day.
10
Posey
What the hellhad happened with the last thirty-six hours of my life? Seriously, what in the actual hell? The early morning light was filtering through the expensive curtains in the guest room. Guest room. This room was larger than my room in my own house, larger than even my parents’ room at their home!
It was spacious without being ostentatious, well decorated, and more comfortable than I could imagine. The bed was easily one of the most comfortable I had ever been in. I had expected to toss and turn all night, visions of David and what had happened, a new place— it was a recipe for a terrible night’s sleep. Yet, I had fallen asleep before I even realized I was tired.
I glanced at the clock, noticing that it was later than I had realized. Mid-morning. Luckily, it was a Saturday. I cozied myself back into the blankets when a thought struck me.
What in the hell was I supposed to do all day in Mr. Wellington’s home?
I grabbed my phone and tried not to think about it for just a few more blissful morning moments. Sandra had texted and called. Several times.
I quickly redialed her number, holding the phone to my ear as I waited for her to answer.
“Thank God, Posey! I was worried about you! Are you okay? Are you safe? Are you back home? Is David dead? I hope he’s dead. Do you need help hiding a body? I know people, you know. Do you —”
“Sandra, I can’t answer if you don’t breathe and let me talk,” I chuckled. There was no one in this world like Sandra.
“Right, right, right. But seriously, are you okay?” I couldn’t help but smile at Sandra’s words. Her pure caring heart was exactly what I needed to get through this mess.
“Yes, I’m okay. I promise. I don’t think David is dead, but can we just not talk about him right now?” I whined.
“We really need to though, Posey. He isn’t safe. You really need to —”
Knock! Knock!
I sat up suddenly, getting out of bed and checking that I was appropriate. A glance in the mirror showed me just how awful I looked. I was wearing what was obviously a man’s solid navy-blue tee-shirt and a pair of men’s sweatpants. Oh well, it would have to do.
