Don't Let Go

Watched

CORDELIA POV

"I'm really lucky to have so many people here that love us and want to do what they can to take care of my family."  I considered, looking toward Ethan and Elliot as they listened while we had our late lunch.  "We have a lot going on now but I feel better knowing we are well protected."

Ethan grinned before digging a tortilla chip into some salsa. "I'm glad to be here.  It's been great to learn how security works, too.  Like Elliot, it never crossed my mind to get into it but I'm happy to help."

"The more, the better," I assured him.  "It helps me feel even safer knowing you're here to hack Hector and Aidan up, Ethan.  My Dad needs that."

We chatted a bit longer before I started cleaning up the table.  Janet tucked away leftovers while I loaded the industrial dishwasher with our dishes.  The guys had to meet with Hector and Aidan about handling the perimeter so I stuck around and kept Janet company for awhile.

Once it was just the 2 of us, she leaned in and asked, "So??"

I laughed, "So, Elliot is wonderful."

"I knew it.  The first day he was here, I could see it in your eyes."

"See what?" I asked while wiping down one of the stainless steel kitchen counters.

Janet gave me a warm smile, "I saw the way Elliot watched you when you didn't realize it.  When you were gesturing toward the big cooler or ovens, his eyes were locked on you."

A grin spread on my face as I let out a happy sigh.  "This little escape we made went better than I could have hoped, in spite of the stress.  We will just have to wait and see what happens next."

"Are you worried about Lewis escalating?"

"Yeah.  The messages he's been sending are getting more violent and graphic.  It's stuff that makes me nauseous."  I looked at Janet and shook my head, "My goal is to just document and try to relax for the moment. Lewis can't get to me when I'm here, even though bis words are hurtful."

"Easier said than done," she agreed before giving me a warm hug.

By about 4, I headed up to my room and flopped on the bed, debating if I wanted to go to my turret.  Part of me was itching to get back up there but with the threats made against me it felt risky.

Then again, I can shut the curtains... Aidan checked everything and we have bulletproof windows but I hated the idea of essentially being a sitting duck so the curtains would definitely help.

Once I changed into a fitted t shirt and sweat pants, I climbed the stairs and quickly shut the room darkening shades. After opening my secret door to access the kitchenette, I grabbed a Dr. Pepper then landed in my comfy chair by the window. Our leftover snack cakes were up here, too, but for the moment I was still full from a big lunch.

My Dad put so much effort into making this turret a perfect place to relax.  The lighting can be bright enough that I am able to paint or draw detailed pieces.  I can also dim the lights to give a warm and romantic ambiance.

That would be fun to do with Elliot up here soon.

I don't like it as much up here without sunlight pouring in, though.  The space feels dark and cold, even with plenty of lighting set up.  My laptop was nearby so I booted it up, checking social media and email then scrolling a bit.  I had notifications for Instagram set up on my laptop so noticed the window pop up with a new Instagram direct message.

From Lewis.

Shit.

LEWIS: You look hot with that dark hair, Cordy.