Page 27 of In Their Hearts

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It's time to find out. I'm done waiting.

“Let's go."

14

Grant

What a night. One I won't be forgetting anytime soon. I liked seeing that side of Jo.

She relaxed and trusted us to take care of her. I don't think that comes easy, and something she won't admit to.

We get ready, and I help her into the truck. My bag is tossed in the back. I brought extra clothes because we hadn’t told her we were staying overnight. She looks adorable in my flannel pajama pants and sweatshirt. It’s strange seeing my clothes on someone other than Clay, though. I turn up the truck’s heat and head back inside. Clay should’ve been checked out by now.

“What the hell is this?" His tone is firm.

“What's wrong?” Concern lines his features. “Tell me what's going on?”

“She got another letter." He shoves the envelope at me. “Delivered here.” I take it.

“Fucking hell, Grant. She said she's never gotten more than one a year. And what does that even mean? Why even one at all?" Clay paces as I read it. He already took the liberty of opening it.

“Shit, Clay. You're right. This isn't good. Can you bring this to Matt and Derrick? See what they think? Or what we should do?”

“I hate to bother them, they just got married for fuck’s sake. But this can’t wait. I’ll message Derrick, but I’ll need to go into the office. Maybe he has a friend who can help. Let’s get Jo home, and I need to change.”

“Okay. When are you going to show this to Jo?”

“When we get home. Let her relax a little while longer. I expect this will rattle her more than the others.”

I give Clay a quick kiss, and we head out to the truck; I slide into the driver's seat, knowing his frustrations and concerns are growing.

Who knew the sassy redhead had someone else after her? Hasn't she been through enough? She deserves a break. She deserves more.

The radio plays country music in the background, and we are all lost in our own thoughts. Jo is still relaxed and half dazed, while Clay is frantically typing on his phone. Oblivious to the tension building around him.

We arrive at our house. Time to break the spell and see what else we can learn about Jo.

“Just wait, Jo. Let me help you inside.”

I walk around and help her to her feet. My arm stays around her waist. I like the feel of her soft body. She's completely different than my husband, and I like her close. My need to offer protection is growing as the unknown deepens.

I don't know exactly what's going on here, but I don't want to see her hurt either by us or by anyone else. For now, I'll gladly help keep her safe and show her all the ways to bring her pleasure.

Jo and I are barely through the door. Clay is already pacing. “Jo, are you sure no one is threatening you? Or wants to hurt you?"

“Yes. I told you before. One letter. Once a year. That's it. I can’t explain the other one except to say it's strange. But I’m not worried.”

“Jo, we think you should be. Another one was at the hotel desk for you.” My tone is firm. She needs to get serious about this.

“What? Are you sure that it's mine? That's nonsense. I wasn’t even home.”

“Here. Look for yourself." Clay hands her the letter, and I almost wish he hadn't. I wish he could make it go away for her, but it doesn't work that way.

We watch her read and take it in.

* * *

Jolee,