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Chapter Fourteen

A gentle knock comes from the other side of the bedroom door. I don't even have a chance to answer, before AJ is opening the door and peaking his head inside. "Is it safe?" He jokes. I glare at him, not amused. "I know you said you weren't hungry, but I brought you some dinner in case. You should eat." He pushes the door open further, and I can see he is holding a plate of Chicken Alfredo and a glass of what I'd assume is water. He walks in slowly, placing it on top of the dresser. My eyes follow him, my eyebrows still furrowed. AJ begins to walk back towards the door before he stops, turning to face me slowly. He let's out a big sigh, "Listen, Carter. I know you're worried about Blue, and I am so sorry. I should have brought him with us this morning." He stares at my face, looking to see if my expression softens at all. It doesn't. He continues carefully, "I know how worried you must be. My and I are too. But we're gonna get him back and make the fucker pay. I swear. Just," he lets out another sigh and speaks softly, "Just don't do anything stupid Car." Too Late. He stares at me like he's trying to read my thoughts, or like he's waiting for me to stay something. When I don't, his shoulders drop. "Please eat something gorgeous. I'll check on you in a little bit." He walks out, carefully closing the door behind him.

    Once I'm alone, I feel the tears welling in my eyes again. Blue, where are you?? I stare at the ceiling again for who knows how long. I feel my phone vibrate and a mix of emotions run through me. I shoot up and grab it off the bed. What I see has me frantically unlocking my phone.

Unknown: I figured you might like this.

Attached is a video of Blue, broccoli toy in his mouth, tail wagging. Proof of life. "Who's a good boy?" A voice I can't quite place says in the background. It sounds vaguely familiar, but nobody comes to mind.

Unknown: He's such good dog. I see why you love him so much. Too bad he never learned stranger danger though.

Me: You don't need to tell me how amazing MY dog is. Stop fucking around, and tell me what you want so we can get this over with, and I can get my boy back.

Unknown: Patience is not your strong suit I see. We'll meet soon Sweetie. Don't worry!

I grit my teeth. This fuckwad better stop calling me Sweetie.

Me: I'm not your fucking Sweetie.

Unknown: Right, you're AJ's Sweetie. Even though you ghosted him. He's still been obsessed with you forever. I'll admit though, I kind of get it. You are... exquisite.

Me: So you figured out who AJ is I see. What does he have to do with anything? This is between you, and me.

Unknown: Well, this really all started with him.

Me: You said you didn't know who he was, but you'd figure it out.

Unknown: That was a lie I'm afraid. The only one I've told you though. Scouts honor. Do me a favor Sweetie, let's just keep these messages between us. Sharing them would just... complicate things.

Me: For me or you?

Unknown: Well, truthfully, both of us. I'll send you an address in a little bit. Sneak out and come see me ;)

    I hesitate, contemplating my options. Initially, my gut is screaming at me that it's a BAD idea. But, then I think of something else. I could sneak out, and then My could track my location! This could work. I prepare to type my response when another text comes through.

Unknown: Also, leave your phone at the house, would you? We don't need your friends tracking your location, like I do.

    "We don't need your friends tracking your location, like I do." I swallow forcefully. He knows where I am. I sit frozen, my plan going out the window. What the fuck am I going to do now?? My fingers type a response and hit send before my brain even catches up.

Me: How am I supposed to sneak out. If you know AJ, you know he's a cop. I'm not going to be able to get out of here without him knowing.

Unknown: That would make it harder, but I can take him out of the equation for a little bit. Be ready Sweetie. I'll talk to you again soon. Bye for now.

    I let out a small frustrated scream while standing up and turning to face the bed. I throw my phone on the bed and it bounces off and onto the floor. I weave my fingers into the hair on top of my head. What does this fucker want with me?? I pace back and forth trying to calm myself down. The smell of Chicken Alfredo fills my nostrils and it smells so fucking good, but I can't eat when I'm upset. Ok Carter, what's the play here? What did he mean by remove AJ from the equation for a little bit?

    A knock on the door pulls me from my thoughts. Maya opens it moments later. I stop pacing and make eye contact with her. At the same time, we both break down and run to hug each other. Maya pets my hair, while we sob into each others shoulders. "We're gonna get him back Car." She whispers. "We're gonna get him back. Nobody fucks with Blue and gets away with it."