Chapter 11 - THE MAN WHO CAME BACK FOR HER
Three weeks passed.
Claire focused on work.
She spoke with investigators.
Provided the records she had.
And avoided Vincent.
Then Ethan appeared outside her apartment building.
It was nearly ten at night.
Claire stopped on the sidewalk.
“Ethan.”
He smiled.
“Miss me?”
She reached for her phone.
“Leave.”
His expression hardened.
“You've caused me a lot of trouble.”
Claire stepped backward.
“I said leave.”
He moved closer.
“You think Hail will protect you forever?”
Claire looked toward the building entrance.
A neighbor appeared.
She called out.
“Mrs. Alvarez?”
The woman turned.
“Claire?”
Ethan stopped.
Claire moved toward her neighbor.
“Could you stay with me while I call the police?”
Mrs. Alvarez nodded immediately.
Ethan walked away.
Claire reported the encounter.
She also contacted her attorney.
The following morning, Vincent learned what happened through the investigator.
He called Claire once.
She answered.
“Vincent.”
His voice was quiet.
“Are you safe?”
“Yes.”
He exhaled.
“Good.”
Claire swallowed.
“Thank you for not coming over.”
Vincent was silent.
Then said, “You asked me to give you space.”
May you like
Her eyes filled.
“I know.”
