The Neighbor

Chapter 19

Elodie's POV

The last two months were a whirlwind. We had met with various attorneys, tracked down victims, got statements and testimonies, we had all the evidence we needed. We were ready for trial, to take this bastard down. His family too. 

It was advised by my team of attorneys to go into a safe place, like witness protection, if you will. That way we didn't risk him trying anything. We were kept in a hotel on a private floor, security guards all around us and with us at all times. Florence's funeral was taking place this afternoon, and I had agreed to speak. Jane and I figured it would give her parents peace of mind, knowing that they could see her body, hear from me, and get some form of closure. I looked in the mirror as I placed my makeup brush down. The bruises on my neck had faded, and my arm had begun to heal. It was out of the sling but still in a black hard cast. I had a crutch to use when I walked, while my leg was in a brace from my ankle to my thigh. It kept my leg straight to ensure everything would heal properly. 

"Ellie?" 

I turned my head and looked at Wyatt. He was dressed in a black suit with a white t shirt and black tie. 

"Give me a minute," 

I turned towards the vanity and placed the lid back on my powder. I turned around and Wyatt walked over helping me stand up. 

"Let me grab your dress and-"

"I can do it." 

I snapped the words at him as he froze. He was just trying to help but it felt like I was a toddler. Unable to do anything for myself. I didn't mean to snap at him, it's just hard. Going from relying on nobody to not even being able to do normal things like use the bathroom without assistance, is hard. 

"I'm so-"

"No, I'm sorry. You're trying to help, and I understand. I can put the dress on but could you zip it for me?" 

Wyatt nodded and handed me the dress as I leaned against the vanity for support. I slid the dress over my head as it fell hitting my knees. Wyatt helped get my cast through the sleeves of the dress. I turned around and he slid the zipper upwards. 

"Are you ready?" 

I flashed a small smile and looked around the room for my speech.

"Can you grab my speech?" 

Wyatt nodded and grabbed my speech as I grabbed my crutch. I slid my foot into a sandal and we headed towards the door. Four security guards were waiting. Usually it's only two, one for each of us. 

"Elodie, Wyatt." 

The guard nodded and we started down the hallway. I looked at Wyatt in confusion as we waited for the elevator. 

"Why are-" 

"The press." 

I turned my head towards a guard in confusion. 

"What?" 

He cleared his throat and clicked the button again. 

"Florence's parents, they've been very vocal, about spreading her story. The local news, state news, hell Good Morning America reported on this. It's going to be worldwide today if it hasn't already. For your safety we've increased security." 

The elevator dinged and the armed security guards stepped in. Two were behind Wyatt and I in bullet proof vests whilst the other two stood in front of us. Wyatt squeezed my hand and I took a deep breath as we descended down. In the corner of my eye I saw a security guard reaching into his pocket. I turned my head and he smiled, grabbing a pair of sunglasses.