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“You know what, I’m feeling generous. I’m going to raise your fee to quadruple the original amount.” Tammy smiled again.
“My husband will find out about this and have you shut down. He’ll make sure you’re prosecuted.”
“Oh, yes. Tell the husband that you’re investigating that you went behind his back and hired me. I’m sure that will only strengthen your marriage. I think we both know you’re bluffing, Mrs. Walker.”
Alessandra pulled her cell phone out of her purse and texted her only available ally. She typed furiously so her opponent wouldn’t see her shaking. Once she was finished she put her phone back in her purse and sat back in her chair.
She remained silent and stared at Tammy until the P.I.’s phone rang five long minutes later.
“Hello?”
Alessandra couldn’t hear the other side of the conversation, but she could tell the angry tone of the male coming through. Watching Tammy squirm and sweat, Alessandra sat up straighter.
“Checkmate.” She rested her elbows on the desk and laced her fingers together, mirroring the Cheshire smile the other woman had treated her to earlier.
The call ended and Tammy jabbed a button on her screen. Her face was practically puce as she glared at Alessandra.
“You’ll be sorry for that.”
Tammy tossed the dossier on the desk. Alessandra snatched it up, but Tammy interrupted her before she had the chance to open it.
“You tell absolutely no one that I was the one who uncovered this information. Do you understand?”
“I do.”
“Don’t open it in the office. Wait until you’re somewhere private. I don’t like dealing with the emotional breakdowns of clients.” Alessandra nodded. “Good luck, Alessandra. You’re going to need it. Our arrangement is over. Never contact me again.”
Alessandra exited the office, slamming the door behind her.
* * *
Alessandra arrived home to find a visitor in her living room.
“You know I believe everyone deserves one favor. You just used yours,” Jerry’s Dom voice and stern look sent shivers down her spine. Her knees trembled as she fought the overwhelming urge to drop down and beg for his forgiveness.
Instead, she said, “Thank you, Jerry.”
“What the fuck were you thinking, Alessandra? Why would you hire a private investigator?”
“I know Drake’s keeping secrets from me. And if he won’t tell me, I’ll uncover the truth on my own.”
Jerry held out his hand. “Hand me the file.”
She took a step back and clutched it tighter. “Why?”
“Depending on what the investigator found, it could endanger you and Drake. I want to see if she uncovered something she shouldn’t have.”
“And why should I trust you? Why can’t I just read through the dossier myself?”
Jerry stepped closer to her. His stern expression now conveyed concern.
“I’m on your side, Alessandra. Believe it or not, I’m not the bad guy here. And I know it might not seem like it right now, but neither is Drake.
“I can’t tell you what’s at stake. All I can say is that I see how much you love each other. Drake’s trying to protect you in the way he thinks is best.”
Alessandra retorted petulantly. “I don’t need his protection.”
Jerry’s face changed so quickly that it frightened her. She’d never seen him appear so serious, even in court. “Yes, you do.”
