by Nicole Vidal
While I was working on my wrists, my father has successfully broken the ties on his ankles. In an effort to assist him, I tighten the ties on his wrists as he attempts to break them same way I did.
I pull my phone from my pocket and dial Sam. It takes me a moment to place the voice answering his phone. “Cruz, it’s Savannah. I need Sam.”
“Are you okay?”
“For the most part.”
“Where are you?”
“I don’t know yet. We freed ourselves. Cruz, please, I need Sam.” The sheer need in my voice is impossible to miss.
I hear shuffling and Cruz shout, “Sam.”
“Hello.”
“Sam.”
“Cara, are you hurt?”
The relief I hear is almost as thick as the relief I feel, even though I’m still not in his arms. Just hearing his voice decreases my anxiety even though I’m far from out of this mess. “No, I’m fine. We just freed ourselves, but I don’t know where I am yet.”
“Hold on.”
I hear Sam talking to Cruz. “Can you track her phone or trace this call somehow?” Then his voice comes back on the line. “Baby, I need to go to the meet. I don’t want to tip them off. Please do whatever Cruz’s team tells you.”
“I will. Sam, be caref—”
“I love you, cara mia.”
“I love you, Samson.”
With the phone still to my ear, I walk around the empty apartment, carefully checking out the windows to figure out our location. My father does the same.
A minute later, I hear, “Savannah, this is Detective Rich Berry.”
“Hi.”
“Lt. Cruz has requested a trace on this call, but any information you can figure out would be helpful.”
“I checked a few windows. They’re small, basement size. We’re in a lower-level apartment. I don’t recall any street names.”
“It’s no problem. Keep talking with me. Are you injured?”
“Nothing of consequence, my father will need some medical attention though. His eye is swollen shut. I’m not a doctor, but it looks pretty bad.”
“Savannah, is there a bathroom or lockable door on the same level of the apartment where you are?”
“Yes, the bathroom locks.”
“Good, go into the bathroom with your father and lock the door. Our team has traced this call. Finn and Maia are nearby. I don’t want to tip our hand if someone is still watching the apartment. Pick a word or phrase so you know it’s Maia and Finn.”
“So Elegant.”
“Okay, go and lock the door.”
I nod, even though Detective Berry can’t see me. If he thought my choice was odd, he didn’t say as much. “Dad, let’s go. They were able to trace the call.” I lead my father into the bathroom and lock us in.
“Squirt, I’ll make this right. I may not be able to pay your boyfriend back, but I would like to be in your life.”
“You need to go back to rehab and stay sober this time. I need you to be sober. Scarlett needs you to be sober. Most importantly, you need to be sober for you.” After what feels like an eternity and a series of loud bangs and a loud thud, I hear my name.
“Savannah, it’s Maia.”
“What is the word I gave to Detective Berry?” I ask even though I’m certain it’s Maia.
“So Elegant,” Maia replies.
I exhale sharply and slowly open the door of the bathroom. Finn and Maia are outside the door.
“Hi, Maia. Finn. I’m really glad to see you. My dad needs some medical attention.”
“Mr. Clemons, right this way. Let’s get you checked out.” Finn leads my father out the door.
“Savannah,. our instructions are to take you home to wait for Sam, Cruz, and Christoph to return.”
Renewed fear rushes through me. While they didn’t hurt me, they beat up my father. I stare at Maia. Unfortunately for me, she doesn’t flinch. I’m not going to get my way right now no matter how exceptional my negotiating skills may be. Resigned I’ll have to wait longer, I follow Maia out of the apartment toward the waiting car. There’s a very small police presence and an ambulance. I can only identify two possibly unmarked vehicles.
“Maia, I need to talk to my father.”
I walk over to the ambulance and watch the EMTs check out my father.
“Savannah, I’m so sorry.”
I raise my hand to silence him. I can’t deal with him right now. I need to get to Sam and Emerson. “After you get checked out and are able to leave the hospital, we should talk.”
My father nods, and the EMT closes the rear door of the ambulance.
“Are you good?” Maia asks as we walk away.
“Not even a little. Since you refuse to take me to Sam, can you at least update me?”
“I’m sorry, Savannah.”
“Don’t be. You’re doing your job. I didn’t think for one moment I would get my way. Nor would I expect you to heed my request. It’s to ground myself more. I won’t be even on the path to good until I literally hold Emerson and feel Sam’s hand in mine.”
Maia nods as we reach the car, and Finn slides into the driver’s seat.
After settling into the car, Maia updates me on the plan, telling me that Sam was set to meet with Carl and Joe at six. Causally, I glance at the dashboard clock and note it’s just after six.
Under an hour later, Finn pulls into the garage at our home. Despite all the people and questions, I brush past them and stalk to Emerson’s nursery. The pounding in my chest decreases when Maria-Luisa steps to the side to show me she’s okay.
“Savannah, I’m glad you’re okay.” She throws her arm around me while keeping one hand on Emerson’s belly at the changing table.
“Thank you. How is she doing?”
“Better. The medication will take care of it.”
“Good. May I?”
“Of course.”
I lift Emerson into my arms and hold her close over my heart. I may not have given birth to this angel, but she’s mine just the same.
“While this may seem out of line or at least awkward, Samson loves you with all his heart. Take care of him and Emerson for me.”
Never once did I think I would find someone as amazing as Sam to share my life. Now I have Sam, Emerson, his amazing siblings, and their significant others.
“I will.”
Maria-Luisa leaves us in the nursery. I lower myself into the rocking chair in the corner and tighten my hold on Emerson. Never once was she in danger today, even though Carl and Joe threatened as much. It still tore my heart out that my father could mess with my family.
“Savi.” Scarlett appears in the doorway.
“Hi, Scar.”
“Do you mind?”
“No, I’m sorry for not stopping. They threatened Emerson. I had to touch her for myself.”
“How badly hurt is Dad?”
“How do you know that?”
“I overheard Lt. Cruz and Detective Berry requesting an ambulance. I was so scared; I didn’t know if it was you or him.”
“His eye is swollen shut. Other than that, I don’t know much more. They took him to the hospital. I asked him to reach out when he’s released.”
“I’m glad you’re okay, Savi.”
“Me too, Scar. Me too.”
Scarlett leaves the nursery. I set my head against the back of the chair and close my eyes.
Chapter 50
Samson
The mere thought of losing Savannah nearly guts me. Along with Cruz and Christoph, I make my way to Central Park. We arrive before six.
Cruz stops walking about three hundred yards from the bridge and sets his hand on my forearm.
“Don’t offer any extra information. Get the wiring instructions and send the money. I don’t know who will show up on Drake’s behalf. Mikhail Drake’s is the most successful loan shark on the east coast with significant reach which has increased exponentially in the recent past. He has acquired the debts of at least two of his closest com
petitors. From the intel we received from Jacob, Mr. Clemons owed five different lower-level sharks, and Drake bought all of the debt.”
I acknowledge his words. Christoph and I continue closer to the bridge. Cruz and I worked together on a few high-end art thefts about five years ago. We were able to establish that the household staff from each theft worked for the same service company. We also worked tirelessly when Billie was injured to find those responsible. We failed only because the driver wasn’t really involved with the paparazzi. Cruz is good people. I’ll do whatever he says to get back to Savannah faster.
“Mr. Morgan. I’m surprised you’re here personally.” Cruz identified this guy as Carl Maxwell in the photos before we left. He’s the right hand of Mikhail Drake, a guy I don’t want to cross. Two other henchmen stand beside him.
“What are the wiring instructions?” I just need to get the money sent. “Where are Savannah and Mr. Clemons?”
“All information in due time, Mr. Morgan.” Carl reaches out with a small sheet of paper.
Immediately, I dial Cash and relay the numbers. Once he confirms, I hang up. “The wire has been sent. Where is Savannah?” All I know for certain is she’s physically unharmed and Maia and Finn are looking for her.
“Once I confirm, I’ll give you the address.”
Christoph leans down and whispers, “Savannah and her father are safe.”
I nod and return my attention to Carl and his cohort. “Where is Savannah?” I’m going to pay the debt knowing she’s safe in the hopes that Drake will leave Mr. Clemons alone.
As the words leave my mouth, Carl’s phone rings. He answers, saying, “I understand, sir.” He turns his attention to me again. “You can find your girlfriend in the ground apartment at 184 E 138th in The Bronx.
“How do I know you aren’t lying?”
“You don’t, but I have no use for her anyway. Her father was the problem. I’m only the middleman. She was the only way to get to your money. You should know, your girlfriend gave up herself for your daughter.”
I pause to process his last statement.
“Sam, let’s go.” Christoph shoves me away from Carl and his buddies. It takes all my resolve not to break off into a sprint across the park. Walking as fast as possible, we rejoin Cruz and continue briskly to his car.
Once inside the car, I exhale harshly. She gave up herself for Emerson. I never questioned Savannah’s commitment, only mine. Truly and madly she loves both of us, and I couldn’t possibly be more thankful. So lost in my thoughts, Christoph has to tap me on the shoulder to get out of the car.
“She’s in the nursery with Emerson.” Christoph informs me. He must have spoken to Maia.
I fidget the entire ride upstairs. I burst through the elevator doors and all but sprint to my world. When I step inside the nursery, Savannah is rocking in the chair with Emerson in her arms. The heaviness in my chest immediately dissipates. Despite the anguish of the day, they are both safe. I fall to my knees at her feet and slide my hands to her hips. All the remaining emotions spill from my eyes, soaking her pants.
When I look up again, tears have fallen down Savannah’s cheeks and my angel is blissfully sleeping. Rising to my feet, I scoop up Emerson and place her in her crib.
I draw Savannah into me, lifting her eyes to mine. “I have no words for your insane bravery and selflessness. Putting Emerson first is more than I could have ever hoped for her and for me.”
“I love you both completely. There is no limit to what I will do for the both of you.” Lowering my lips to her, I claim Savannah as mine for the rest of my life. As soon as possible, I’m going to marry this phenomenal woman and build a life with her.
Chapter 51
Savannah
After promising one another a long discussion about the events of the day, we tiptoe out of the nursery and deal with our houseful of people. At some point after I returned, Scarlett ordered enough pizza and wings to feed everyone.
Christoph, Maia, and Finn leave soon after eating but request that the four of us stay put for at least twelve hours for them to get some sleep. Cruz, Sam, and I, along with Jacob on speakerphone, hash out a few details before Cruz leaves for the evening. I agree to have someone with me everywhere I go until we move.
Within three days, Sam has finished packing the office, his penthouse, and obtaining the certificate of occupancy for our new home. During those same days, my father checked himself into rehab again. For his sake, I hope the third time is the charm. We flew to our new hometown from the city first thing this morning with both of our cars on the plane as cargo I’m following Sam who is driving the Rover from the airport to our home. The movers arrive soon after us. A few hours later, they set the last box in the garage.
“Let’s order some takeout, and then we can set up Emme’s room,” I suggest as Sam enters the kitchen.
“No need. Dinner is on its way, along with a small army of helpers.”
About fifteen minutes later, a steady stream of family and friends cross the threshold of our new home.
“This is gorgeous. You have a yard and a view,” Billie raves, gazing out the French doors on the back of the house.
“Thanks.”
Kelly and Ellis brought in the food, followed by William carrying boxes of deliciousness from the Perk.
Under three hours later, we’ve finished eating and assembled Emerson’s furniture and a temporary bed for Sam and me. While Sam can work miracles for most things, speeding up the furniture delivery wasn’t possible. I don’t care.
After refusing help for the boxes labeled holiday decorations, we pack Scarlett’s belongings in the Rover and drive to her new place. She is going to live in the same complex as Billie’s condo near Short Sands Beach while she attends college. Her plan is to find a job at the beginning of the year. I’m really proud of her for opting to leave the city. Once she’s settled into the condo, we agree to meet tomorrow to take her car shopping.
After a short and chilly walk across the beach, we climb the hill toward our home. Once we’re sure that everyone has left, Sam and I set to wrapping the copious number of gifts for Christmas in a few days. Due to our recent ordeal and expeditious move to Maine, the Morgan family Christmas will be at Billie’s this year instead of Tahoe.
Today is my first Morgan family Christmas. I’m so excited. My early childhood holidays weren’t packed with gifts, but they were filled with joy. The delicious smells already swirling around Billie’s home are tantalizing. Even though we’ve been here before, the water view is spectacular. I hope Auggie slept a little last night. He arrived late from New York with Caro. It’s before eleven when we arrive. Caro is smiling at Auggie while they work in the kitchen. Their feelings swirl all around them, but they refuse to see it. Eventually someone will break and the truth will be told. Honestly, I think they’re perfect for one another.
“You’re here!” Billie hurries to greet us and scoops Emme away from Sam.
“Hi to you too, Billie.” Sam feigns dejection.
“Sorry, big brother, but my niece is far prettier and more fun than you. Aren’t you, Emme?” She can’t answer, but Billie is having fun anyway.
“So what did you open already, Savannah?” Auggie asks from the kitchen.
“Our stockings and a few larger items for Emerson.” Those present exchange a look that can only be interpreted as mischievous.
“What have you done, Samson?”
“I have no idea what you’re talking about, cara?”
“What do they know that I don’t?” My raised eyebrow is an indication that I’m not buying his answer.
“You’ll see in due time. I warned you, and you promised to be accepting. You can’t take it back now.”
I have no clue what else he could possibly get as a gift. Not only did he buy a house, but furnished it, purchased another SUV for me, and moved Morgan Insurance to another state. Knowing that no matter what I say or do, the outcome won’t change, I join Auggie and Caro in the kitchen.
> Over the next few hours, I assist Auggie. Mostly we watch him work his magic with the food and wash the dishes around him. Billie is swooning over Emerson while Peter is building a warm fire. Cash and Noelle arrive with some treats from the Perk.
“Isn’t Kelsey joining us later?” Of all the people other than Sam’s family that I’ve met here in Maine, Kelsey is my favorite, and it has nothing to do with her delicious treats.
“She is, but she asked us to bring some of the goodies first thing,” Cash replies, setting the boxes on the sideboard in the dining room. Once he frees himself from the boxes, Noelle and Cash make the rounds hugging and greeting everyone. Noelle promptly steals Emme.
“Peter, where are your sisters celebrating this year?” I ask as we get closer to dinner.
“My dad, Gen, and Joseph went to Colorado with Kelly and Ellis. Maggie is in New York with Grant’s family. Norah decided to celebrate with Jacob’s family this year. We had a sibling dinner last weekend to celebrate together.”
“I think the Ramirezes and Scarlett are the only remaining people to arrive. I don’t expect William and Kelsey until after dinner. They’re opening gifts with his family first.”
“Thanks.”
Soon thereafter, Auggie starts requesting actual help from Caro and me. Scarlett breezes in right before we sit down to eat.
“Hi, everyone.”
After a resounding welcome and numerous trips to the dining room, we take our seats and enjoy a scrumptious holiday meal. Auggie is truly a magician with food. The turkey is perfect, the ham dripping with glaze, the rolls are warm and flaky. The side dish, which looks like sweet potatoes, is to die for. I can only imagine what desserts he’ll pull from the oven.
After our delicious meal, the guys, except Auggie, handle the dishes while I assist Billie and Noelle setting up the gift exchange. Caro is feeding Emme over near the fireplace. I’m in shock over the sheer number of packages surrounding Billie and Peter’s gorgeous tree. It’s possible that they equal the number Scarlett and I got over our entire lifetimes.
