Jake
"I guess I've been wrong all along, Jackson isn't dead. He didn't die that night. He has found me and now back for revenge." She let out slowly while I continued staring at her.
I didn't know she had finished until it was almost a minute and she hadn't said a word. The silence was eating deep into me, I was momentarily speechless. The realization hit like a punch, Jackson wasn't dead. He'd survived, and now he was back, sending threats.
I almost couldn't believe she was once married, not once did I ever imagine that or that she had been through that much abuse. I had so many questions running through my mind but it wasn't the right time for that.
Laura's struggles weren't over yet, and she was still in danger. I clenched my fists, feeling a wave of protectiveness wash over me. I couldn't let her face this alone, not when I had the resources to protect her.
"Move in with me," I said, meeting her gaze.
She blinked, as if trying to process my words. "Jake, I—"
"No arguments," I interrupted, my voice firm. "If Jackson is back, and he's out for revenge, I'm not letting you face this alone. My place is secure, and I can make sure he won't get close to you."
"Arlene already asked me to come over. She's presently at her boyfriend's place." She revealed but I wasn't too comfortable with that.
"No, I don't think that would do. My place is more secured and I will even get more security now that I know the gravity of the problem at hand. Let me protect you, please." I pleaded.
There was a pause, and then Laura nodded, a hint of relief flickering in her eyes. "Thank you, Jake. I… I don't know what else to do."
"Then it's settled." I reached out, giving her hand a reassuring squeeze. "Pack whatever you need. I'll take care of the rest." She nodded and then went inside. She soon appeared with a small bag, there was one with her already, which I guessed was the one she was going with before I arrived. I helped her gather a few other work essentials, and once everything was ready, we headed back to my place.
The drive to my place was quiet, both of us deep in thought. As we pulled up outside, I could see the tension in her shoulders. I put a hand on hers, hoping to convey my commitment to protecting her. "Whatever it takes, I've got you."
Her eyes widened as she took in the beauty and sheer size of the mansion.
"Your room's on the second floor," I said, leading her upstairs. "You'll have space, privacy… and top-level security."
We walked into her new room, a spacious suite with a large window overlooking the gardens. I helped her set her things down, making sure she was settled.
"Thank you, Jake," she said, her voice soft. "I don't know how I'd manage this without you."
I gave her a gentle smile. "You don't have to worry about that. I'm here, okay?"
After making sure she was comfortable, I stepped out to make a few calls. Pulling my phone from my pocket, I dialed my head of security.
"Steve, it's me. We need extra security on the premises, specifically in the areas around the guest suite on the second floor," I instructed. "And I want someone keeping an eye on Laura at all times. Discreetly. She's my assistant but now at my place because of some insecurities around her now. She's special to me so make sure she's your top priority. I wouldn't like or appreciate any error." I ordered sternly.
"Understood, Mr. Harrington," Steve replied.
"Good. Make it happen immediately." I ended the call, feeling a small measure of relief. Knowing that I had people on watch made me feel a bit better, but I wouldn't rest until I knew Laura was truly safe.
Late that night, after making sure everything was in place, I finally allowed myself to retreat to my room. Lying in bed, my mind wouldn't stop racing. Jackson was out there, somewhere, and he was after Laura. The thought of her being hurt was unbearable. I wouldn't let it happen.
The next morning, I was up early, determined to make her feel comfortable and at home. I prepared breakfast, carefully arranging everything on a tray. It wasn't my usual routine, but something about taking care of her felt right. After making sure everything looked perfect, I headed upstairs to her room.
I knocked gently and then entered. She was just waking up, blinking sleepily as she sat up. Her surprised smile made the early start worth it.
"Breakfast in bed?" she asked, a playful glint in her eye.
"Consider it a perk of staying here," I replied with a smile, setting the tray down on the table beside her. "I wanted to make sure you had a good start to the day."
She looked at the tray and then back at me. "Thank you, Jake. This… this is really thoughtful."
I gave a small shrug, trying to play it cool. "Just call me if you need anything, alright? I'll be in my office, and I've left my cell on all day if you need anything at all."
She nodded, her expression softening. "I will. Thank you."
I lingered for a moment, wanting to say something more, but I couldn't quite find the words. Instead, I gave her a small nod before turning to leave but I hadn't taken more than three steps when she called me back.
"Yeah?"
"I'm so sorry for being a burden… I know I should have told you all this before things went this far… I'm so sorry…"
"Sorry for what? I don't get you at all…" I quizzed.
"You're not a burden and you shouldn't be apologizing. As for telling me before now, that isn't a big deal. It was your personal life, I have my secrets too. We all do. What matters is that you've told me now."
"You're in need of my help and I'm happy to. Just relax and put your mind at rest, you've been through enough already." I chimed in.
She wanted to say something but I cut in before she could.
"Enjoy your breakfast and rest." I added and then turned to leave.