Chasing Bristol (The Finding Trilogy Book 2)

by Morgan, Shane

  Gripping his shirt, I cried, “He’s here! He’s after me!”

  The old man’s eyes peered open, mystified. “Who’s here?” he asked, looking over my shoulder. “No one’s coming.”

  Frustrated, I turned and pointed. “He’s right—” I couldn’t believe it. “There…” my voice trailed. “Where is he?”

  I spun back to Mr. Porter. He wrinkled his forehead and eyed me as if I’d gone mad. “It’s an old building,” he said with a chuckle. “It gives me the creeps too.”

  “No,” I yelped. “The lift’s open. He’s inside the center. He was chasing me.”

  Mr. Porter raised his hands, trying to calm me. “Okay. I’ll go check it out. Stay here.”

  He stepped around me and headed to the connecting door, going through it. I hugged myself, afraid of what he might find, or worse, what might happen to him.

  It felt like an eternity as I waited in the empty passage. I watched the entrance, worried my stalker might come after me from that side.

  The connecting door wrenched open. I shuddered. My heart settled when I saw Mr. Porter.

  He ambled closer, shrugging. “The lift is locked. No doors were open. There’s no one else here.”

  “He was right behind me,” I insisted.

  Mr. Porter cocked his head to one side. “Did you really see someone, Miss Armando?”

  “Yes…” I stopped to consider. “I mean, he said my name… I heard his footsteps…”

  Gosh! Had I imagined it?

  The security guard gave me a wry smile. “Found your phone?”

  I bobbed, speechless. Maybe I was going crazy.

  “Okay, why don’t I walk you to your car?” He motioned for us to head toward the entrance.

  Still frantic, I clutched my purse to my chest as we started out of the building.

  Descending the concrete steps, I watched for any sudden movement in the oak trees and shrubs out front. I halted when a strong wind gushed by, rattling the leaves. Shadows danced in the grass. Branches like arms stretched out toward me.

  Mr. Porter touched my elbow. I recoiled, so damn jumpy. “It’s okay,” he said in a soft tone, then nodded to my car parked outside the gates. “Come on.”

  I exhaled long and hard, and then continued along the concrete path. Reaching the iron gates, Mr. Porter slowed in his steps while I unlocked my car.

  “Thank you,” I said, distressed.

  He waved and started back to the building.

  Feeling exhausted, I sat for a moment without starting the car. A tsunami of emotions swept over me, and I started to cry. I wept until I’d drained myself so much that I didn’t have the energy to shed any more tears. I tossed my purse on the passenger seat and fiddled with my phone, wanting to call Mason.

  And tell him what? That I’d been imagining things?

  He’d been through enough with his sister. I didn’t want to make him panic because of my inability to get a grip on my fear.

  Pulling myself together, I started the car and headed home. Damn. Being stalked was doing a number on me. I was on edge twenty-four seven.

  I stared at myself in the mirror for a beat, and then applied more lipstick. Afterward, I looked at my attire again. I was wearing my favorite black ankle-length dress and matching heels, and my hair was pulled back into a chic bun.

  In less than an hour, the fundraiser would be in full swing. I was excited that it was finally here. I’d enjoyed the process of planning for the event, so I looked forward to seeing how it would turn out.

  There was still a bitter spot in my stomach, though. Mason hadn’t said a word to me all week and Dad still seemed upset about the weekend before.

  The good thing was, my stalker hadn’t reached out for an entire week—aside from those mind tricks I’d pulled on myself at the club and at the center—and everyone around me was starting to relax a bit.

  Snatching my clutch off the bed, I headed down the hallway and picked up my keys from the kitchen island. Dad was tied up at work but said he’d clock out in time to stop by the fundraiser.

  After locking up the condo, I drove for a few minutes until arriving at the Canfield House restaurant on the east side of Newport. Entering the colonial revival structure, I made my way across the sleek pine wood floor over to Julian, Amber, and Seven. The restaurant had been reserved for the event and most of the antique mahogany dining chairs and tables had been moved to the side, creating a ballroom setting.

  The place looked exquisite with low-hanging bronze chandeliers and old century decor. It excited me to see that they’d incorporated my idea of hanging pictures of animals as well as offering souvenirs for pets, since proceeds were going to an animal shelter. There was also a buffet, an open bar, and a live band playing jazz music.

  “Look at you, beautiful,” Amber complimented as I reached them. She had on a loose-fitting chiffon dress and sky high pumps, while Julian was wearing a purple knee-length dress, her long hair in a classic French braid over her shoulder. Both were stunning. Seven looked handsome too, in his smooth black tuxedo.

  I smiled at them as I said, “You guys look great.”

  Always modest, Julian waved me off. She surveyed the room. “Everyone did a good job, especially you. George Wilcox is happy with how well you’ve performed for this event. So is Aunt Bev.”

  “Really?” I gave her a wide and genuine smile, my eyes surely sparkling. I hadn’t felt that good in a while.

  Julian jerked my arm playfully. “Of course. In fact, I hear there’s another nice offer coming your way.”

  I creased my forehead, clueless. “What kind of offer?”

  “Soon,” she replied, winking at me.

  “Hmm. That is one sexy man right there.” Amber gaped at someone across the room.

  Rotating, I spotted a tall, pale-looking man by the entrance. He looked sharp in his dark blue tuxedo with black grosgrain details on the slacks, his features strong and well-defined. His black hair was brushed back, and his brooding dark gaze remained serious as he scanned the room.

  He seemed like he was in his thirties, so composed and confident with one hand inside his pocket and the other holding a glass of wine.

  Something about him was…familiar. I couldn’t figure out what though.

  “Well…ahem,” Amber cleared her throat. I swiveled back to her. She picked up a glass of wine from the passing tray. “I’m going to mingle.” She giggled and started over to the mysterious James Bond-looking man.

  “Any lead on that stalker?” Seven asked.

  “Babe.” Julian bumped his arm. “Not the right time.”

  “I’m just curious. You never tell me about it,” he said to her.

  “It’s okay,” I told him. “There’s nothing new. In fact, I haven’t received anything from him all week, so…maybe this time it’s really over.”

  Humph. Unless the encounter at the club and at the center weren’t hallucinations.

  A doubtful look crossed Julian’s face as if she could hear my thoughts.

  “That’s good,” Seven remarked. “Hope it stays that way.”

  “Okay, let’s forget about that and try to enjoy ourselves,” Julian suggested. She knocked my arm as she added, “We should get to know these people. Networking is always a plus.”

  Seven bobbed in agreement and stepped off with Julian. I went in the opposite direction to greet the owner of the animal shelter that the fundraiser was benefiting.

  Later on, Dad showed up. I spotted him the second he walked in the entrance wearing the tux I’d left out for him.

  I ambled over to his side to keep him company. “Hey, Dad.”

  He pecked me on the cheek and then regarded my dress. “Sweetheart, you look lovely.”

  “Thanks, Dad. So do you,” I joked.

  He chuckled. “Not as lovely as you.” He skimmed the room, then asked, “How’s it going so far? Any deep pockets?”

  I gave him a wry smile as I answered, “We’ve received a little over twelve thousand.”

/>   His forehead crinkled. “That’s good, only I sense there’s a ‘but’ coming.”

  “Your senses are dead on. According to Greg Wilcox, anything below twenty is deemed a failure.”

  “Yikes. Hard to please, huh?”

  “Guess so.” I was about to introduce him to Beverly Vanderson when I glimpsed a few surprising guests. “Um, what are Mom and the McKinleys doing here?”

  Dad turned and stared at them. “Beats me. Your mother tends to receive invites based on the company she keeps.”

  “Just a sec.” I slipped away from him and wandered over to my mother. She was laughing pretentiously with some of the donors.

  “Excuse me,” I cut in. “Mom, a moment please?”

  She strode with me to a private area in the room.

  “What are you doing here?” I asked. “Did you invite the McKinleys, too?”

  Mom scoffed. “Oh geez, Bristol. They were invited by George Wilcox and I came along to support the cause. Good heavens. Why are you always ready to attack me?” She raised her glass to her lips.

  “Support the cause?” I placed my hands on my hips. “You don’t even like animals. What are you really doing here with them? Don’t tell me this has anything to do with Tyler.”

  She didn’t have to answer; I saw the reason over her shoulder. He caught sight of me and started to approach.

  “I can’t believe you,” I fumed under my breath. “You’re still trying to put me and Tyler back together.”

  “Oh honey.” Mom stroked my cheek. “Men cheat, no matter what. Look, I think it’s best to be with him. I’d feel better and would know you’re safe from this mad man that’s been taunting you.” She twisted to turn away as Tyler neared us, adding in an afterthought, “And by the way, will you stop favoring your father over me? We both know he’s not perfect either.”

  I spoke through gritted teeth. “At least he’s considerate of my feelings.”

  “So am I. If only you could see that.” Mom spun and flounced back to the donors she’d been talking to before.

  Tyler edged closer. If I hadn’t been so infuriated I might have been impressed by his attire. He never wore a tux for me, always just a nice shirt and dress pants.

  “Hey, can we talk?” he asked, seemingly sincere.

  “Not the time or place,” I replied in a dry tone. “And for the last time, stop calling me babe.”

  He gripped my arm as I was about to leave. “Bristol, it’s been a few weeks. Aren’t you tired of being mad at me? I am. I want you back. I miss you so bad. I know you said you can’t trust me again, but if you give me another chance I’ll earn that trust back.”

  I tried to writhe my arm away but he wouldn’t let go. “Tyler, please. My boss and coworkers are here.”

  “Well, come outside with me then,” he implored. “We can talk in private.”

  “No. Let go of my arm. Now,” I warned.

  Irritation warped his features. “You think if you keep ignoring me I’m just going to disappear? I’m not going anywhere. I love you, damn it. You honestly think I’m going to let you go?”

  “Look, I said—”

  “Get away from my daughter!” Dad intervened, shoving him.

  Tyler released my arm. “Mr. Armando, listen, I know you prob—”

  “You don’t get to talk to me, you little prick, or my daughter.” Dad edged closer to him, gritting his teeth. “You better leave right now before I teach you a lesson for hurting her.”

  People started turning our way. I glanced at Dad’s hands and noticed he had his fists clenched.

  Oh no. He was getting riled up.

  I touched his arm. Trying to calm him, I said quietly, “Dad, it’s okay.”

  Tyler risked reaching for my hand again. “Bristol, please come outside with me. It’ll only be a minute.”

  I was going to do it and avoid drawing attention, but Dad plunged forward and punched Tyler. The impact sent him to the floor.

  Everyone gasped.

  “I told you to stay away from my daughter,” he grunted. “Leave her alone!”

  “Oh my gosh! Dad, stop it. Calm down,” I pleaded.

  Worried he might hit Tyler again, I yanked him back. The McKinleys hurried over to their son’s side.

  “What the hell is your problem?” Mr. McKinley snapped at my dad.

  His wife bent down and helped Tyler to his feet. “You hooligan.”

  Julian and Seven came over.

  “What happened?” Julian asked, bug-eyed. “Did he hurt you?”

  Looking at my dad, I shook my head and said, “No.” Embarrassment screened his face. His lips trembled, like he wanted to apologize or something.

  Tyler straightened and wiped his bloody lip with the back of his hand. He glared at my dad. “You know, if it wasn’t for Bristol, I’d have you arrested again,” he grunted, loudly.

  Everyone heard, and started talking in hushed voices. I peered around the room, ashamed. Greg Wilcox glared at me, displeasure darkening his gaze. His father twitched his mouth, astounded, and then tried to divert the attention of the people he was talking to.

  “I’m sorry, I’m going to have to ask you to leave,” a sincere voice said. “Please.” I spun back to Tyler and his parents. Beverly Vanderson was ushering them to the exit. She apologized several times until they left.

  Walking up to me and my dad, an annoyed burst of air spewed from her lips. “A word, Bristol.”

  She marched off through the bewildered crowd. I followed, fearful of what might come next.

  Beverly led me into an empty hallway for privacy. She rested her hands on her hips as she spoke. “I don’t like commotions of any sort, Bristol, especially at an event like this. The people in that room will pull away just like that if they find our companies to be unprofessional.”

  “I’m sorry,” I said in a whisper. “Tyler was trying to take me outside and my dad snapped.”

  “Your father…” She dipped her head in thought. “Wasn’t he arrested for having a bad temper?”

  I didn’t answer; I was too embarrassed.

  Her eyes relaxed as she looked up at me. Dropping her hands from her hips, she said, “Julian asked me to put in a word for you with George Wilcox and his son. I spoke very highly of you, Bristol, and I meant every word. Don’t let me down.”

  I shook my head. “I won’t, Ms. Vanderson. I won’t.”

  Relief swarmed me when she touched my arm. “I’m sure they’re both upset about what happened. You and your father should go. I’ll take care of it.”

  All I could do was nod and say, “Thank you.” Turning to leave, I said again, “I’m sorry for causing a scene.”

  “We’ll talk on Monday.”

  I sauntered back to the lobby and searched for my dad. He was having an intense conversation with Mom. I hastened over before they caused another scene that would result in me getting fired this time.

  “What’s going on now?” I groaned as I reached them.

  Dad turned to me, looking sad. “Sweetheart, I’m so sorry about that. I lost it for a moment there.”

  “Did you?” Mom smirked. “It’s good you’ve learned to admit it.”

  “Verona, I don’t need this right now.”

  I placed my hand on Dad’s shoulder. “Let’s head home.”

  He frowned. “Did I get you in trouble, sweetheart? Did they—”

  “No.” I contrived a smile. “I’m feeling tired anyway, and Ms. Vanderson said it was okay to leave.”

  “Huh.” Mom finished her wine. “I better head out too, no sense in staying since the McKinleys left.”

  “Yeah, Mom. No sense at all.”

  She leaned forward and kissed my cheek. “Honey, please come home. I’m worried about you.”

  “Are you really?” I tittered, doubtful.

  Mom flicked her gaze to Dad. “You’re the reason she’s like this with me. You’ve brainwashed her.”

  Dad huffed and looked away to avoid saying anything.

  “Mom,
” I massaged my temples. “Dad has nothing to do with what happened between us and you know it, so stop blaming him.”

  Surprisingly, she didn’t protest. Her lips pressed into a line like she was upset. Regret prickled my heart as her eyes welled up with tears. She turned and headed for the exit.

  “Great. I never meant to hurt her,” I whispered. “I just…”

  Dad squeezed my shoulder. “I know, sweetheart,” he said. “I know.”

  I told Julian and Seven that I was leaving. I’d only just realized that Amber and the strange guy had disappeared from the event. I made a mental note to call her later. On top of my problems, something about that guy had unnerved me.

  I drove home behind Dad. Entering his condo, I started toward the spare room. “I’m off to bed,” I said over my shoulder.

  “Um, sweetheart, I’m going for a drive.”

  I pivoted at his words. “Now?”

  He nodded. “Yeah, down by the bay, just to clear my head.” He came up to me and pecked my forehead. “Mason says he’ll swing by. I’ll be back in a bit. Make sure everything’s locked before you go to sleep, okay?”

  “Okay,” I replied as I watched him move toward the door. “Dad, what happened at the fundraiser? Does it have anything to do with what’s going on with me?”

  He paused and spoke with his back turned. “Bristol, let’s not talk about it.” He opened the door and left.

  I continued to the bedroom, then peeled off my dress and put on a tank top and shorts. Excitement bloomed in me, knowing I’d see Mason that night.

  Lying in bed, I sent Amber a text since she wasn’t answering my calls. A few minutes passed and then my phone started to ring. I thought it was her, but when I looked at the screen it was Mason calling me.

  Butterflies assembled in my stomach. My heart walloped behind my ribcage. I eased up and pressed my back against the headboard, smiling as I answered.

  “Hey.”

  “Hey, uh, how’s it going?” he asked, sounding nervous.

  “Um, fine. What’s up?”

  He heaved a sigh before answering. “To be honest, Bristol, I’ve been thinking about how I acted last weekend.”

  “It’s okay,” I assured him. “You were right. What I did was careless. This isn’t a game.”