“Okay, but when you can’t find your boxer briefs, don’t complain.”
He nodded. “I’ll go commando.”
“Hmm. That idea has possibilities.”
Van sucked in a breath. “I have meetings in town and things to catch up on since we’ve been away. The house is secure and between Jonathon and the others, you have no need to worry about your safety.”
“Is…?” I hesitated.
“Go on?”
“Is Phillip still in Chicago? What does everyone know? Could he come here?”
Van wrapped his arm around me. “The PI found where he’s staying in Chicago. From what I’ve learned, he slipped out of your parents’ home after we left.”
“And Arnold told my parents the truth of what happened?”
Van nodded. “My information has been spotty. We’ll get it all worked out.”
My shoulders drooped. “The world thinks I walked out on another wedding.”
“No one’s opinion matters.”
“Wade?”
“Your laptop is with the things. Unpack or keep up on your research. You, my dear, are your own boss.”
I pursed my lips, holding back a grin. “Not always.”
“Let me know if you have any complaints. Remember, we established that the day you moved in. Any complaints by either of us should be brought to the other.”
“No complaints.”
Van reached for my hand. “Come downstairs and let me show you something before I leave.”
“Do you have to leave?” Even I could hear the neediness in my tone.
“I’ll be back before too late. When I do, I’ll bring you your phone.”
I tugged my lower lip. “I’ll be alone without a phone?”
“Margaret is here.” Tugging on my hand, he winked. “You’re covered in my shirt. Come downstairs.”
I padded a step behind as Van led me past the bathroom door, the tray of food and coffee, and out to the hallway, landing, and down the stairs until we passed through the French doors. Beside the inside of the front door was another sensor.
Van motioned to the sensor with a keypad. “Jonathon will come by and program your handprint. For now, to unlock or lock the doors enter your birthdate.”
“Isn’t that an obvious PIN?”
“Do you have a better idea?”
“Twelve eighteen.”
“Should I know what that signifies?”
“It’s the date of the blizzard. The date we found one another.”
Van stepped to the keypad and pushed buttons. “There, your birthday is gone. The code is twelve eighteen.” He kissed my hair. “If someone comes to the house and you need help, enter 1-2-3-4. It’s the emergency code. The security team will be notified. It’s a direct signal to Michael, Albert, and Jonathon. It’s faster than the phone.”