Magic doesn’t exist, but a curse feels likely in this moment. One that can only be broken by…
I lean in and brush a light,lightkiss to her forehead.
Then I release her. There. She’s free.I’mfree.
Catherine wraps her fists in the jacket from the inside and holds it in place. “Thank you. If you don’t mind, could I also have a ride to the city?”
If she wants to be warm, then there’s no use standing in this forest. I put an arm around her shoulders to steady her, since her hands are occupied, and start walking. “That was always the plan. Take you wherever you need to go.”
There’s a pause as we navigate around a curve in the trail. “How did you know to come get me?”
“Your youngest sister went to Elise, and Elise called me.”
“Whyyou?”
“I thought we were past pretending you don’t think I’m hot.”
“I meant, why not Gabriel? I would think…I mean, it wouldn’t have been a good idea for Elise to confront my dad, but…”
I move a branch out of our way with my free hand. “Gabriel is in the hospital.”
Catherine gasps. “What?”
“Your father has some fundamental disagreements with Gabriel. From what I understand, he lured Gabriel to the Bettencourt International headquarters and had it set on fire.”
“Oh my God.”
“Gabriel jumped out to save himself. He was successful, although the fall took an obvious toll. Don’t tell him I told you that.”
“I wouldn’t.” Catherine shakes her head.
“Catherine.” Her eyes meet mine. “I was kidding.”
“I wouldn’t say that to him anyway.” Her steps slow. “If he’s in the hospital, where is Elise? Where’s Lydia?”
“With Gabriel at the hospital. Or they might’ve gone home to rest.”
“Home?”
“Gabriel’s.”
“That’s where I should go, then. I should be with my sisters.”
I don’t doubt that Catherine wants to see her sisters, but I’ve just rescued her from captivity. She should have a chance to recover first, especially when there’s a showdown with Bettencourt on the horizon.
“If you want to go to Gabriel’s, I’ll take you there.” Catherine’s steps are growing shorter, almost mincing. “Or I have another suggestion.”
“Drop me off at a hotel?” Christ, she sounds tired.
“Or you could come to my place. Personally, I find it more comfortable than most hotels I’ve stayed at.”
“Do you…” Catherine leans into me for a few steps, then straightens up. “You have guest rooms, I’m assuming?”
“It’s a two-story penthouse, so you assume correctly. It’s also safe and quiet. No one will bother you there.”
“You’llbother me there.” A wary note in her voice.
“I’ll turn down the covers on whatever bed you want to sleep in, if that’s what you think is bothersome. I’ll order in dinner from the French restaurant on the ground floor.”