Kill of the night

Chapter 22

May 7th
Melbourne

Harry

I exhale a relieved breath after finally seeing Josie's eyes closed. Leaving her to sleep peacefully, I restlessly call my boss for the third time in a row.

I spent last night comforting her, trying to calm her down and make her feel safe with me. She was up all night, and therefore, so was I.

I gave her my bed and slept on the floor.

I wasn't sure how she was feeling, since the words she directed at me after the invasion were few, so I decided to give her space, even though I was craving to hold her.

On the third ring, he answers, and I don't waste any time - I want that fucker Drew dead, preferably in a slow and painful manner.

Good morning to you too, Harry.

I'm not joking, Boss.

Drew is my employee as much as you are. If this is about Nicolas again—

He hurt my girlfriend. - I blurt out without thinking about the words I just uttered.

Girlfriend? - His tone is intrigued. - Since when do you have one of those?

My personal life doesn't mix with my work.

Tell that to your father. - I hold my breath at the mention of him. - I need to know who this girlfriend of yours is.

She's not English, and she never knew me before Melbourne, I swear. - I clarify, even though it's the biggest load of shit I've ever said.

He clicks his tongue. - Fine, I won't press, but if I find out you're lying to me, I'll be forced to tell your father. - And that would be my end.

I get that but I want protection for her, and that involves taking care of Drew—

I'd never do that on a mere request from you, let alone when he's one of my best employees. However, I'm feeling generous, and he has made too many mistakes with your team. - I sigh. - Consider it done.

Even if he wouldn't do it for me, I'd do it myself, and of course, I'd bring my friends along, who would be more than satisfied to help.

Right, I owe you one.

Oh yes you do. - He warns in a tone I know and despise. - Good day to you and your beloved.

I end the call, inhaling deeply. Protecting her is my priority, but I need to be cautious with my past.

Despite my efforts to move forward and bury my other troubles, they constantly trail me, a relentless reminder that I'll never be free of my past.

I put together a brunch, for when she awakens, leaving it on the nightstand, and then sink into the armchair in my room. Sleep is calling my name, so with her peacefully resting, I attempt to catch a moment of rest myself.

***

I wake up to the gentle clinking of utensils afanar a plate. Slowly straightening up in the armchair, I smile when I see Josie sitting on the bed, eating melon with puffy eyes.