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“He was at the airport in Washington. He dropped a bag that had the hat he’s worn anytime we’ve seen him on camera. SJ almost caught him, but he got into a cab and fled,” I add.
“I didn’t know it was him until he pulled away. I saw him drop the bag by baggage claim. I chased him, trying to return it, not realizing he was fleeing because he recognized me.” SJ speaks more cautiously this time.
“You mean he recognized Nora? Why would he recognize you?” Camilla moves to the edge of the sofa, turning to face SJ.
As his mother, I’m sure she’s filled with concern for her son. SJ releases another sigh and hangs his head for a few moments before answering. This is the part he dreads telling them.
“Son, what is it?” Charles speaks, but not with force.
SJ looks up, meeting his dad’s eyes when he speaks. “When Liam went into his apartment, he not only had a shrine dedicated to Nora, but he also had photos of Nora and me together leaving her hotel in Chicago. He somehow used those photos to identify me. He knows where I work, where I live, and he knows I’m from Sutter Creek.”
The realization in Charles’ face makes my stomach turn.
“What can we do to help?”
Charles’ words aren’t what I expect. I thought he’d insist I go to a hotel. He wouldn’t potentially risk Camilla and Sam for a perfect stranger. Even if the stranger is here with his son.
“Wait, he knows you’re from Sutter Creek. Does that mean…” Sam’s words trail off as she realizes what’s being said.
Camilla pats Sam’s leg. “Don’t get worked up. We’re safe here with SJ and your daddy.”
“He knows about all of you. He knows where you live, and he knows about the hardware store. But so far, he hasn’t attempted to come into contact with Nora. When I tried to approach him, he ran.”
SJ is trying to reassure Sam that she’s safe, but I can’t tell yet if he was successful.
I think I’m the most shocked person in the room because of his family’s reaction to the details. They aren’t scared for me to be here; they want to help. I didn’t expect this reaction at all. I can’t tell if SJ expected it or not.
Charles nods. “We’ll go about our lives as we normally would. If he shows up in Sutter Creek, we’ll deal with him accordingly. Nora, as for you, you’re welcome in our home for as long as you and SJ need or want to be here.”
Charles’ words are stern and final. SJ cracks a smile at his dad’s words. Maybe he knew his father would stand behind him after all.
“Thank you,” I reply gently, surprised but thankful for their kindness.
“He’s picked the wrong ones if he shows up here,” Sam adds, holding her chin high. I love her young spunkiness.
“Well, now that that’s all sorted out, I think we better get ready to turn in for the night. All of us will be up before dawn, heading into the hardware store.” Camilla stands, and Charles follows suit.
“Nora, I’ll help you get settled in SJ’s room.” Sam stands, offering me her hand to help me up.
SJ stands and comes to my other side. “I can help her with that, Sam.”
There appears to be some sort of standoff going on, both siblings staring at each other for several beats before Sam relents.
“Fine, Samuel. Goodnight, Nora.” She snickers as she walks out of the room.
“SJ, I’ll put some bedding on the sofa for you while you help Nora get settled,” Camilla offers.
He pulls me up to stand before turning his attention to his parents. “Thanks, Mom. Goodnight to you both.”
Camilla comes over, pulling her son into a momma bear hug.
“Goodnight, son,” Charles adds before they leave us in the living room.
“Ready?” I ask.
“Yep,” SJ says before picking me up like his bride more than his client or friend.
I don’t even fight it at this point. I ignore that my heart pitter patters at the feel of his hands on my body as he carries me up the stairs carefully. He carries me all the way into his room and sets me gently at the foot of his bed.
