Committed (Book 2) (30 Days) Read online

Page 3


  ELLE

  When Rachel brought in the most stunning fire orange roses I was shocked. I’d pulled the card from the arrangement and as I read the floodgates opened spilling tears down my face. The card read;

  Elle, One for every day we had. Twenty seven real and one fake ... I will love you until the last rose dies. Colin.

  Sure enough there was one fake rose in the mix. Rachel had rubbed my back and told me I was so lucky to have something so romantic sent to me. My heart nearly burst with the affection, need and want I felt while staring at the flowers. At seven a strange glare at the window kept drawing my attention. Curiosity finally got the better of me and I walked to the window. Someone was shining a light in my window. I put my palm to the cold glass and leaned into the window staring out. Colin. He dropped the light to the sign he had in his hands and I switched the over light off leaving the bathroom light on to make it easier to see him.

  IF YOU’RE CRAZY, I DON'T WANT TO BE SANE.

  I can't stop the waterfall of tears that stream down my face as he stands there holding his sign trying to be near as possible right now. It means more than anything in the world. The glass barrier between us frustrates me but if this is the only way I can have him right now then I’ll take it. His smile as he gazes up at me is lopsided and gorgeous. It must be cold out because his jackets zipped and his hat is pulled low over her brow. He takes my breath away. I have nothing to write with. I can't communicate and it irritates me. I lean forward blowing hot air on the window. In the fog left behind I draw a heart with my finger and move left to see him again. His bright eyes and smile beam at me from the courtyard. I could stand here lost in his eyes all night.

  The overhead light flickers to life making me jump. I wave Colin away and turn to find Manny at the door.

  “Hey Ellebell.”

  “Hey, you’re early.”

  “Yeah, someone will be back with your sleeping pill at nine but I’m doling out everything else before I leave early.”

  “Oh. Ok.” I sit on the bed and wait as Manny gets everything in order. We clink, I swallow, he checks my mouth and we say good night. I lay back on my bed, staring at the roses across the room. For the first time in weeks I feel comforted. He came for me. It’s shocking knowing that I put my faith in someone and then came through.

  COLIN

  The mixture of dread and joy I feel upon waking immediately sets me on edge. I feel restless. I hop out of bed, brush my teeth and shower. Unplugging my phone from the charger I notice I have a voicemail. My stomach clenches even though it could be good news or no news at all. I enter my code and wait for the message to start.

  “Colin. Joe here. Ryan threatened Elle’s life. A nurse overheard and is willing to go on record backing Elle up. I’m free after lunch if you want to call.” I blow out a breath at the good and bad news. This should help Joe speed along the case and get her out but Ryan’s threat might mean it’s safer for her to stay where she is. I sit at the desk and fire up the laptop. I want to learn as much about Ryan Darling as I can.

  After googling him and stalking him on Facebook I realize that unless I follow him around I’m not going to learn anything useful and give up. I head out to grab an early lunch and hopefully kill enough time before calling Joe back.

  “Fill me in.”

  “At her last meeting with Dr. Rand she took a stab in the dark and accused Ryan of paying him off if he kept her in the hospital. She said Dr. Rand was shaken up and apologizing up and down, so we have to assume that she hit the nail on the head. A day later Ryan stormed into her room and told her he’d put a bullet in her. Basically he said she can give him money or he can take it from her. The evening nurse heard the whole exchange. I have submitted everything to the judge. I’m hoping he will grant her release before the divorce trial.” He finishes sounding hopeful.

  “When will you know?”

  “He has all the information, we’re just waiting on him.” Joe informs me. I blow out a breath frustrated at being at the mercy of others yet again before I can see Elle.

  “Alright well, just keep me posted.”

  “Of course. Talk to you later.”

  “Bye Joe.”

  The rest of the day drags by like time’s standing still. I try exploring the city but it’s not fun alone and my mind wanders to thoughts of Elle and the things we did together. I tried zoning out to the movie I rented but I couldn't pay attention enough to follow along. I stare out the window and watch the sun descend before standing and arranging everything I need into my duffel bag for tonight. I pull out the well-worn, tattered letter from Elle and read it over like I do at least once every day.

  Colin,

  If you’re reading this I trust you’ve met Mr. Jowett and I’m gone. I’m so sorry. There are things that I couldn’t tell you. Things that I thought would change the way you see me, the way you feel about me. I’ve learned to always tell someone how you feel because opportunities are lost in the blink of an eye but regret can last forever, yet I didn’t tell you how I felt, so let me start with that...

  You are my heart, every breath I breathe. I’m safe when I’m in your arms. Where I’m weak, you’re strong. I love you because you have given me no choice but to. You took the time to memorize me my fears, my hopes and dreams and you’ll never understand how much that means to me. Please know my heart is in your hands. It's nothing that I understand, because until you I’ve never felt this way... but in your arms you have complete power over me. I love you Colin.

  My name was Elle Parks, my father owned Parks Industries. I know what you’re thinking...yes, that Parks Industries. When I told you I had money, I meant a lot of it. After my sister’s death I was lost. I couldn't stand Ryan and I couldn't see any way out. The night he hit me I got in my car and left. I drove down the road and purposely drove my car into a tree in an attempt to end my life. I woke up four days later in the hospital psychiatric ward. Ryan got power of attorney in order to keep me committed, in order to have access to all my inheritance. Seven months after being trapped in there I escaped... and that basically brings us current to when we met. I’m sure Joe has filled you in on what he’s trying to do. I’m not crazy Colin. I swear I’m not crazy. I don't know if I’ll see you again. I don’t know how this ends but I wanted to tell you how much I love you, how much you mean to me. I hope you can forgive my omissions. I hope I’ll see you again. I can’t imagine my world without you in it.

  Love Elle

  xoxo

  It’s a constant reminder that what little I’m doing for her right now means a lot in the end. I just have to have faith. This will all work out. I will hold her in my arms again and I will do whatever it takes to keep her safe. I miss her in the mornings when we’d have breakfast together. I miss her coming by the gym for trainings and I miss having her curled against me at night. I miss her voice.

  ELLE

  I’m all nerves waiting for the day to pass. Rachel’s statement to Joe along with the police report from my now crime scene cottage should go a long way in at least getting me out of here sometime soon. It’s impossible to focus on anything my new therapist is saying at this point. My mind is too consumed with next steps and playing this waiting game.

  “So you feel that you don't belong in here?”

  “I know I don't. This whole committed ordeal was a sick game my husband played to acquire my inheritance.”

  “That sounds awfully paranoid Elle.” I sigh and bring my eyes directly to my new therapist.

  “It does, yes, but it’s also true. Are we done for today?” My tone short.

  “Elle, it would be really helpful if you talked to me.” She urges.

  “I’m the only surviving heir to Park’s Industries. My husband gambles and probably owes bad people lots of money. He also thinks he deserves to live like a King just because he breathes. I’m pretty sure he had my sister killed and I know he promised my last therapist a large sum of money if he kept me in here. I’m not paranoid because it’s all true.�
�� I watch as her eyes turn into saucers and she flips through my file, undoubtedly checking to see if some facts are true before looking back to me.

  “Well, I see. I think I need to review your file more thoroughly before our next session.” She relents.

  “Great.” I say flatly.

  Two hours later and one disgusting dinner of mystery meat and frozen vegetables I’m back in my room and staring out the window. I don't know what Colin’s up to or if he went back to Searsport but I will stand at this window all night if it means possibly seeing him.

  It’s near seven when I see movement in the empty courtyard below. I’m so excited I could burst. I stand frozen at the window staring down until he’s close enough to make out. The window fogs momentarily when I finally exhale. Like every night for the last three days I move left and put my palm to the glass and smile at him. The smile he flashes up at me melts me. His hot little dimple and lopsided grin only remind me how much I miss his touch. He reaches into the bag sitting next to him and pulls out another poster. Shining the flashlight on it I read tonight’s message.

  I want to kiss every inch of you.

  I laugh to myself and nod my head at him hoping he can see that I want that too. His smile falters a few moments later when there’s nothing for us to do but stare at each other in silence through a barred window. I blow all my breath on the window letting it fog up and trace, your smile makes me melt, backwards with my finger. It takes him a couple tries and me losing my breath trying to keep the window fogged before he understands and beams his heart melting smile back up at me. A few minutes later he wraps his arms around himself and shivers before waving goodnight to me. I’m sad to see him go but he can't stand outside staring at me all night and soon Manny will be in with my pills and I’ll be forced to sleep anyways. I wave back and blow him a kiss, which he catches before blowing one back to me. With a final wave I watch him walk away and hope like hell he will be back tomorrow.

  I lurch up grasping at air as tears stream down my face. When I’ve gathered my wits enough I pull my knees to my chest and steady my breath. The nightmares are gruesome and disturbing and all end with Colin dead. Wiping the tears from my cheeks and the sweat from my brow I lay back down to try and sleep.

  RYAN

  “I will not sign them! I don't care what they think they have on me!” I scream into the phone at my lawyer. “Do what you’re supposed to or I’ll hire someone else!”

  I slam the phone down and curse myself silently as it shatters. I’m so mad I can’t see straight. My lawyer actually had the balls to suggest that I sign the divorce papers and walk away before criminal charges are filed. They can’t tie me to Mick so what the hell do I have to bow down to her for? Dr. Rand has fled to God knows where after Elle’s little speech this week so he’s not a problem anymore unless he resurfaces but I highly doubt that will happen. I haven't been able to get a hold of Mick in weeks now and it’s starting to irk me.

  I fold into my TT and pull out the driveway. My brain is churning a thousand different scenarios around. It’s time to pay a visit to Alister. If Elle wants her freedom and her money and this divorce I might be willing to give it to her if there’s something in it for me. If I can pitch this just right I can wipe out my debt to him and take care of Elle in one shot. I put up with her for too long and gone through too much to walk away empty handed at this point. Alister doesn't like interruptions to his evenings but I just need to buy myself a little more time.

  JENNA

  “That’s wonderful news!” I squeal into the phone. Ben pokes my side and shoots me his ‘tell me what’s up’ look. “Yes, yes I’ll come up tomorrow, we all will!” I hang up the phone and turn to Ben.

  “You’re never going to believe this! Dr. Rand is missing, he just disappeared and without him Ryan has no one in his corner. Between the police report, the mental evaluation Elle had done through Joe and the death threat the judge has ruled in her favor! Ryan no longer has power of attorney and Joe said she can be discharged tomorrow evening!” I ramble at the speed of light. Ben’s face lights up as he scoops me up in his arms and twirls me around the living room.

  “Colin must be peeing his pants right now.” Ben laughs.

  “That’s just gross. Why would he pee?”

  “I meant in excitement.”

  “Do you pee when you’re excited?”

  “No?” We double over with laughter at Ben’s unsure answer before sobering enough for Ben to call Colin and find out how he’s doing. I assume Joe called him first but if not, Ben will get to make him a very happy man. I watch as my built boyfriend dials Colin with clumsy fingers and waits for him to pick up.

  “Yes!” Ben yells into the phone. “We’re coming tomorrow! I’ll call John after we hang up. Yeah, of course man. ‘K.” Ben hangs up the phone and looks to me. “Colin says he needs ‘the box’.” He eyes me in confusion.

  “Ok. I’ll be sure to pack it.” I answer not giving anything up.

  “Ookaay then.” Ben huffs as he dials John.

  COLIN

  The hotel room looks more like a bachelor pad than my apartment does. The last seven days have proved to be the hardest I’ve ever encountered. Seeing Elle every night for a few moments just isn't cutting it. I can see the defeat in her eyes each passing day she's stuck in there. She’s almost hit the month mark and it has to be weighing heavily on her, I know it is on me.

  “‘Lo.”

  “Colin, good news son!” Joe cries in my ear.

  “Well...”

  “Elle’s being discharged tomorrow evening. The judge ruled in Elle’s favor, Ryan’s lost power of attorney over her. The divorce hearings set for November twenty eighth. Until then Elle’s a free to return to Searsport.” I can’t form words and my body is shaking uncontrollably with relief. “Colin? You with me still?” Joe prompts.

  “Y..yes. I’m here.”

  “I’ll bring her straight to your hotel room tomorrow when we’re out.” He says.

  “Ok. Joe..”

  “Yes.”

  “Thank you so much.” I mumble still shocked.

  “Don’t thank me yet Colin, we’ve still got a way to go.”

  I hang up and immediately call Jenna. Her shrieks of delight make my eardrums feel like they’re bleeding but I can't complain, I feel the same way. If I had boobs I’d probably be squealing and jumping up and down too. After I hang up I clean the room like a maniac because there is no way in hell Elle can see it like this. After what she’s endured I want to make tomorrow the best night of her life.

  At seven I enter the courtyard to find her staring down at me already. The smile on her face is bright and intoxicating. Tears stream down her face but she looks so happy they must be tears of release. I fish out the flashlight and hold up, what’s hopefully the last poster ever.

  How long do you want to be loved?

  Is forever enough ‘cause I’ll give you forever if you’ll take it.

  I can just make out the green of her eyes burning brighter as she nods her head furiously up and down at me. I stand transfixed as she fogs the plate glass and fingers ‘yes’ into it. Her letters are shaky, like she can't tamp her excitement down enough to steady her hand. My heart skips a beat and I hug the poster to my chest like a chump because I can't hold her yet. Tomorrow can’t come fast enough.

  We play our intense staring game until I’m convinced she can see into my soul and I’m frozen to the bone. The October weather isn't great for standing still outside. The wind whips around through the buildings making a wind tunnel that chills me no matter how bundled up I am. I blow her a kiss, catch her return one and wave good night before stalking back to the hotel. Rubbing my face roughly with both hands, I don’t anticipate sleeping at all tonight which will give me plenty of time to pull everything together.

  ELLE

  Sometimes all you need is love. Never have I felt so adored and cared for. I’m not convinced I deserve Colin but I refuse to give him up for anything. I swear when he’s
near I can feel his heart beating perfectly in tune with mine. It’s a strange intense awareness to his proximity. I can’t really explain it but I’m not sure I want too. I’m content just experiencing and living with it until it’s no longer mine to have.

  The moment Joe stepped into my room I started crying. I couldn’t fathom that I was really leaving, not escaping, leaving. Joe wrapped his arms around me and comforted me the best he could but I wouldn't feel right until we were outside the hospital, until I was face to face with Colin. I received warm, heartfelt goodbyes from Manny and Rachel and promised them I’d check in with them every once in a while. As Joe drove us away from the hospital my mind swirled with how far I’d come in eleven months. I’d again gone through overwhelming loss, tried to harm myself, left Ryan and somehow found love. Joe slows the car as we turn into the carport of the hotel.

  Chills break out all over my body and my eyes dart around the entrance until I see him. Colin. He’s wearing faded jeans and a blue button down shirt un-tucked with the sleeves rolled up with a sexy smirk on his face. He looked delicious. I sat there gaping at the hotness in front of me as his eyes find mine. The car comes to a stop and yanking the door open I jump out running for him.