“You have no idea what Hugh is capable of. Neither does Sophia. Ryder makes sure it stays that way. But let’s just phrase it as Hugh views Sophia as a trading commodity for more power.” His eyes never leave the road and he will not look at me.
I study his profile. Waiting for something… anything to tell me he’s lying. I know what Hugh Chiave is capable of. But to his own daughter? I can’t fathom it.
“Fine. Then I guess you want my thanks?” I say, still a little snarky.
“No. I just don’t want you associating me with Hugh. There’s about to be a big shift, and I’m not a bad guy. I only want to help protect. That’s why Ryder and I connected as friends in the first place. Both of us protecting our families from evil at too young an age.” He finally turns to face me. “I just can’t stand seeing you look at me like I used to look at my father.”
Well, fuck me.I instantly soften to the guy. I know that feeling and that look.
“I’m sorry. I should’ve listened to Ryder. I didn’t mean to hurt you.”
“It’s okay. Completely understandable. I just couldn’t let you leave again thinking it was me and Ryder. He’s a good one too. We’ve got Sophia, and you by extension.” He gives me a weak smile.
“Then why aren’t you making Hugh stop what he’s doing to me now?” I ask, my voice full of hurt.
“What do you mean?” He puts the truck in park in the spot and spins to face me.
“The stalking. The letters. Breaking into my home. Taking photos of my daughter, all to get their money back. Ryder said you’re not involved, but there’s gotta be something he knows. Lily is innocent. She doesn’t deserve any of it.” I put my hand on the door handle, but he grabs my arm, stopping me.
“That’s not us. I swear to you. I’ve not heard anything, not even a rumble of anything from the other guys. Even if it’s a top secret mission from Hugh, someone talks. There’s always something running around, and there’s been nothing.”
My mouth drops open. I’m torn on believing him, but Ryder said the same. “Are you sure?”
“I’m sure. Ryder would have heard for sure if I haven’t. I promise you it’s not us.”
I stare at him, unmoving. “Then who is it?”
“I don’t know. Can you send me or Ryder what you have? We’ll get on it. If it’s Hugh, he’s keeping it tight-lipped and close to home so Ryder would have to do some digging.”
I nod, holding out my phone for him to add his number to a message. I send him all the evidence I have on my phone. All the photos. The number, everything.
“Shit, Aubrey. I’m real sorry. Ryder and I will figure this out. I promise you.”
Giving him a half of a smile, I open the door and grab my luggage. “Thanks for the ride, Damon.”
“Anytime. And I’ll call you in a few days with some answers.” I nod before walking away.
I was so sure it was them, I was so sure Damon himself was involved. But now my mind is spinning.
Security is basically empty and I’ve made it to my gate almost on autopilot. Pulling out my phone I text Cooper.
Me:It’s not Ryder. It might still be Hugh, but I don’t know. They have no idea what I’m talking about and haven’t heard anything about it.
Cooper:It’s definitely Nolan. I just need to figure out how and who he has doing all his dirty work.
Me:I don’t know. Why would he target me? How does that help him?
Cooper:He thinks I’ll back down. And maybe I should shut the blog down.
Me:No. As much as it sucks, I trust that Wyatt will figure it out. I sent everything to Damon, Ryder’s best friend, too. We’ll get an answer soon. Whether it’s Hugh or Ryder, we’ll get answers soon.
Cooper:I hate that it’s affecting you and Lily, even if she doesn’t know it. They’re getting too bold and Wyatt’s lead hasn’t panned out yet.
Me:Let’s wait until Ryder or Damon calls me back before you give up on your dream.
Cooper:Okay. I’ll give it a week. I can’t wait until you’re back home and I can have my eyes on you.
Me:It’s been a while. I think I’d prefer your hands.
