Page 79 of Every Single Vow
“Girls,” I say, my tone causing Arizona to furrow her brows.
Motioning them to me, I quickly tap Dakota’s name. It rings four times before going to voicemail.
Shit.
“Hey. They’re closing up. We better get out there before we’re stuck trying to leave,” Maddox calls as he and Ivy walk up.
“What’s wrong?” Ivy must see the worry on my face.
“I’m not sure.” I clear my throat. “Maddox. I need you to take Heather home. Then take Ari back to your house at the ranch.”
He holds my gaze for only a few seconds before he jumps into action. “Alright girls. Load up.”
Ivy watches me closely. “Where’s Dakota?”
I lower my voice. “I need to find her.”
“Hey.” Laiken and Trace join us, her hand holding tightly to his.
I meet Maddox’s eyes, the unsaid words passing between us.
“Laik, I need you to meet us at the ranch,” he says calmly.
“Why?” She asks. “It’s Trace’s bedtime and he…”
“Laiken.” Maddox’s tone changes, before he swaps another silent look with her. “Please go to the ranch.”
“Come on, Ari.” Ivy plasters on a smile, trying to keep things calm for the girls.
Arizona stands next to me, her face scrunching. “Where’s my sister?”
I reach out to squeeze her shoulder. “Bathroom. We’ll be right behind you.”
Arizona may be only thirteen, but she’s got more street smarts than any adult I know.
“Something’s wrong,” she states.
“I’m not sure.” I shake my head. “But I need you to go with Ivy and Maddox. Please.”
For a second I think she’s going to argue, but she nods before following my sister out of the entrance.
My chest tightens as I glance around. The carnival is clearing out, and I’m searching for that familiar long, dark hair. My boots move across the field, aiming toward the bathrooms.
I toss the cotton candy in a nearby trash can before I reach the portable trailer. A woman is sweeping the staircase. “Ma’am,” I call to gain her attention. “Can you check if my wife is in there, please?”
“Sure, hon.” She yanks open the door, poking her head in. “Anyone in here?”
When there’s apparently no answer she comes back out. “Sorry, it’s empty.”
“Thanks.”
My gaze darts around.
Where are you, Kota?
She wouldn’t just leave. I know her. And she must have felt Ari was in danger. But why?
Fire lights in my veins. The thought of Billy possibly showing up. Of scaring her.
