Bad Intentions

Fourty-Nine

All my hopes deflated. I felt my shoulders dropped in that moment.

It can't be. Not the man who was literally my second father. Who was there for all my major milestones even after my father passed.

Not my father's best friend.

Jace must have felt my disappointment because he pulled me into his arms. My head against his chest. It was comforting. It was safe.

"But I'm not saying he is." He whispered softly. His strong arms held onto me tightly.

I could stay like this for forever.

Then it hit me. He was probably still upset from last night. And even if he was he didn't show it in this moment.

I didn't even acknowledge that and I want too. To let him know I wasn't playing him. I wanted to acknowledge his feelings.

Just as I was about to say something, Jace pulled away leaving my body to be exposed to the cool air. I was already missing his presence.

"Go home. We'll figure this out. We'll figure out if Nate's father is a part of this." He said definitively.

"How? You can't keep putting yourself in the line of fire." It true. Every time Jace tries to uncover hidden information he is putting himself at risk of getting caught.

He gave me a charming smile. "Don't worry. I have ways."

"Charming your way out of this isn't gonna work this time." I said deadpanned.

"Oh, you think I'm charming?" He asked with a smirk playing on his lips.

I shook my head. Way to turn this around, Jace.

"Whatever." I waved him off dismissively. "I'm going to get burgers." And on queue my stomach growled.

A blush rose to my cheeks as I hear Jace chuckle. "Please do."

I rolled my eyes as I started to walk back to the direction of the restaurant. I turned back and Jace was still there making sure I made it.

"Go." He mouthed I knew he could still see the concern on my face. He motioned for me to go towards the restaurant.

I nodded and headed to the entrance. I turned back once more to see if he was still there, but he was long gone.

I couldn't help the aching I felt in my chest. He shouldn't be doing this himself. But I wasn't sure how to help.

I finally grabbed the food after ordering it and headed home. The rain started with a drizzle and by the time I got home it got heavier. I ran inside protecting the precious treasure.

"Finally!" Kayla exclaimed as I entered the house. She grabbed the bag out of my hands. "I thought my stomach was going to eat itself. Where were you?" She popped a fry into her mouth.

Wow, thanks Kay.

"The restaurant was busy." I lied.

She nodded and ate a few more fries. "Oh! I took the trash out and got the mail for you and this was in it." She handed me an envelope.

It was dark gray and had white cursive writing on the front. It was addressed to my mom and I. I opened the envelope and it was invitation.

You are cordially invited to the Annual Before the Holidays Fundraiser Event.

This was the event that Nate's parent throw every year. Right before the holidays to raise money for the community and it's resources. It was always a way to give back.

"Did you get one?" I asked Kayla as she took a bite of her burger.

"Yeah, mine came in the mail yesterday. I love this event! We always get to dress so fancy. I can't wait to go shopping. And this year it's being held at the Rylan's residence." She said before taking another bite.

Then it hit me like a ton of bricks.

I know how I can help Jace.

If Nate's dad was associated with Dominic he would have some documentation of it for the company and he could possibly be keeping it safe at his house. It's a long shot, but it's worth trying.

I just hope Jace was ready to play James Bond.

***
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Lisa S.