Page 75 of Loving Violet
Once we arrive at Violet’s apartment, I set the groceries on the kitchen counter and unpack them. “I’m making Adrian’s favorite tonight,” I say to Violet, trying to lighten the mood a bit.
She smiles weakly. “I’m looking forward to it. Thank you, Austin.”
Adrian runs into the kitchen, looking excited. “What’s for dinner?”
“Spaghetti carbonara and garlic bread,” I reply with a grin.
“Yes!” Adrian cheers, momentarily lifting the heavy atmosphere.
While I start preparing dinner, Violet sits at the kitchen table, watching me. “I’m sorry I didn’t tell you sooner,” she says softly.
I turn to her, my expression serious. “You don’t have to apologize, Violet. We’re dealing with it now, and that’s what matters.”
“I just... I didn’t want to drag you into this mess,” she continues, her voice wavering.
I walk over to her and take her hands in mine. “You’re not dragging me into anything. We’re a team, remember? We’ll get through this together.”
She nods, tears welling up in her eyes. “I’m so lucky to have you.”
I kiss her forehead gently. “No, I’m the lucky one.”
When Adrian is asleep, Violet and I sit on the couch, holding each other close.
“We’re going to be okay,” I whisper, more to reassure myself than her.
“I know,” she replies, her voice steady.
As we drift off to sleep, I focus on the feel of Violet in my arms.
I wake up to the sight of Violet still tucked in my arms. I gently nudge her awake before getting ready for the day. I'll be taking Adrian to school, and Violet’s heading to work with Josy. After I drop Adrian off, I drive to the office and decide to call James, one of my Army buddies. He retired a few years back and now works for a big security firm. He owes me big time.
The phone rings, and he picks up on the second ring.
“Austin, my man! How are you?”
“I’ve been better. What about you?”
“What can I say? The job’s great, the wife is happy. There’s nothing else I could ask for.”
“That’s great, man.” I genuinely feel happy for him. When we were on tour, James was newlywed to his high school sweetheart, Jenny, and always worried about them. “I need a favor, buddy,” I say, getting to the point.
“Anything for you, Austin. What’s up?”
I explain the situation with Violet and the disturbing notes she’s been receiving. James’ tone shifts immediately, becoming serious and professional.
“Damn, Austin, that’s rough. But don’t worry, I’ve got you. What do you need?”
“I need some high-quality security cameras and GPS devices that I can install on Violet’s SUV. Something she can wear, too, so we can all feel at ease.”
“I can help with that. We’ve got the latest tech at the firm. I’ll make sure you get everything you need.”
“Thanks, man. How soon do you think it will arrive?”
“Hey, you saved my life. It’s the least I can do. I’ll overnight the equipment to you, you’ll have it by tomorrow.”
“Thanks. This means a lot.”
“Keep me posted on how things go, alright? And let me know if you need anything else.”
