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I thought about my father and how rough he’d been on me. “You know I didn’t realize until now? My father was tough and will never understand why I care about Arman. I realize that. But he’s always wanted the best for me. I can tell that’s how your father is. He adored your mother and wants you to have that kind of love.”
She rested her head on her knee as she looked at me, taking several shallow breaths. “I know. And all I’ve ever wanted is to see my dad happy. Maybe then he’ll get off my back. I think you can help make that happen.”
We giggled together and I pushed her playfully, tingling all over as I thought about him. If only it were that easy. I’d gotten no answers, the man’s promises uncertain. However, I was determined to discover whether my father was indeed trying to hurt the man I loved.
And I did love Arman.
How had that happened?
I’d wrestled with my thoughts, concerned I was still out of my mind. I’d also been hesitant to accept my strong feelings, thinking maybe I was doing nothing more than pushing against my father and his controlling hold. But during the hours of reflection, I’d finally realized that I was my own person, ready to not only take hold of my life and my future, but willing to face the consequences for my actions.
Even if it damaged the relationship with my father.
It was a heavy weight to bear, but in my heart, I knew I’d compare every other man with Arman for the rest of my life if I didn’t take a leap of faith. Maybe my mother had been right after all. Who knew?
“But you must have a boy you have a crush on.” Hearing a strange sound, I realized it was a melodic ring tone from Zoe’s phone.
She groaned. “No doubt it’s Dad. He’s called four times. And yes, he asked about you all slyly like I couldn’t figure out what he was doing.” Her laughter continued as she scampered to her feet, moving to her phone. “Hello? Hey, Dad. We were just talking about you.”
I leaned back, eager to see him to the point I was more restless than before. There were so many things to say to Arman, so much that I needed to convey. But first, I’d throw my arms around him.
“Yeah, she’s right here. What’s wrong?”
Hearing the change in her voice, I shifted so I could see her. Zoe threw her head up, darting her eyes back and forth as she walked closer.
“Okay. Yeah, hold on.” She held out the phone. “Dad wants to talk to you.”
I took the phone from her and as soon as I did, she backed away, folding her arms. “Hiya. Are you on your way back?”
“I need you to listen to me and try not to make it apparent what I’m telling you.”
“O-kay. What is it?” I tried to fake putting a smile on my face, but Zoe was watching me carefully.
“Where are you?”
“We’re out by the pool.”
“Fuck,” he hissed. “I need you to get inside and lock the doors. Now.”
Hearing the shake in his voice shocked me more than the words. My fingers were almost numb as I struggled to stand, moving quickly toward Zoe. “We need to go inside. Okay?” While I was usually pretty good at disguising fear in my tone, I could sense she was able to read me like a freaking book.
She jerked her arm away. “What’s going on?”
“That’s what I’m going to find out. Let’s go inside.”
She nodded, numbness already settling in. I hurried us into the kitchen, closing and locking the door immediately. Then I realized we’d gone out through the living room doors.
“Raven. What is happening?” Zoe asked.
“Just stay here,” I told her, immediately heading out of the kitchen toward the living room. “You’re scaring me and terrifying your daughter. What is going on, Arman?”
“I think I’ve been compromised.”
“What does that mean?” I moved more quickly, heading into the room and hissing when I noticed the cracked door. After closing and locking it, I tried to think about what to do. The security system. I had no idea how to operate it.
“It means I can’t get in contact with my men who are guarding you.” I was stunned, trying to figure out what in God’s name I should do.
“What? Who?” I moved toward the hallway, determined to get the entire house secured.
