Gone Girl 3

Chapter 26

Veronica's POV

"Ugh," I sigh out loudly. "I just can't fucking understand this."

My head falls on the textbook on my desk and I close my eyes for a few moments, frustrated that nothing sticks to my brain, not even simple concepts.

Suddenly my phone rings. I decide to ignore it for a few moments and then I pick it up when I think it could be Derek. He left so hurriedly this morning, I don't even know where.

It's Shanice. We've gotten closer but she never calls me without a reason.

"Ronnie... I know I shouldn't tell you this-"

"What? What do you mean?" I interrupt her.

"Derek is my friend and Irène is—I don't know, even though we are fighting... but I have to tell you."

I put away the textbook knowing damn well I won't study anymore. "Tell me already!"

"Dominic slipped and told me they found your... you know... and they are going to kidnap him or something at Irène's house."

My mouth falls to the floor convinced I didn't hear correctly. Irène's house?!

"So it's just Dominic and Irène?"

"No... I'm worried... it's Derek and Cyprian too."

I gulp down hard, preventing my heart from sinking into my chest as a bitter taste takes over my mouth. Derek broke his promise and now they could all be in danger.

"You- you said Irène's house. Why there?"

"Irène lured him there by calling the company he works for... turns out he works for a shipping company for yard stuff... that's why he knew how to open your garage. And he doesn't live far away from your mom's house."

I squeeze my eyes shut. When I start believing that everything is okay and now I can live at least a quarter of what's left of my life, something comes up again. I feel betrayed by all of them. I knew Irène wouldn't stop but I begged her to stop. It was never her problem.

Derek... how could he do this to me?

"Are you sure Derek is there?"

"Veronica. Derek will fucking kill him."

I shudder, hanging up the call. I know she is worried about Irène but what I'm most worried about is Derek going to prison because he decided to be the hero once again.

I can't think clearly. I don't know if I can forgive the broken trust but for now I'll only think about saving him from prison... otherwise there will be nothing to forgive.

The Uber car stops near me, I make sure to double check the plate number. I couldn't wait for Shanice to come. She was too far.

Luckily the Uber driver doesn't talk much but I can't help feeling unsafe in the back... you just never know. I press my phone hard, knowing I left it on 911 call.

I will never feel better, I will always be paranoid but I wanted Derek to be safe... and he chose me over him again.

Time passed by fast as I find myself in front of Irène's house. It's only been thirty minutes since Shanice called.

I don't know if I'm ready for this. A part of me hopes it's all a nightmare.

The lights are suspiciously turned off. I thank the Uber driver and I rush out of his car.

I look for my keys in the purse so I have something to fight with if I need to. With steady but fast steps I advance to Irene's door when I hear a loud cry coming from the garage.