Blood and roses

Chapter 14

Walking into my house, "Sir, you're home early. Is Elara still here, Lulu?"

"No, sir, she left early this morning. I will be in my study, sir. She left you something; she pulled out a card. She said she made it for you."

"Thank you, Lulu. And sir, she did not take anything from the room; everything is still there. She left the phone and laptop."

I climb the stairs to my study, sink into my black chair, open the card she made for me, and start reading.

Dear Elex,

I want to express my deepest gratitude for everything you've done for me, even though you don't know me very well. I am incredibly thankful for your kindness. I apologize for writing a card, but I was assigned to the night shift. I wanted to tell you in person, but I know you are very busy. You will forever be my hero. Thank you, Elex.

Love, Elara.

Opening the next card, I see it was for Blake. I've decided to pay him a visit. He's been in the cell for about a week now. I want him to read his own card; perhaps he will realize what he has done.

"Anderson."

"Yes, sir."

"I need you to look after Elara for me. She started work and is assigned to the night shift. You will take her home and you are assigned to protect her. I will send Neo to take her phone and laptop. Anderson, don't let anyone hurt her."

"Yes, sir, I will be there whenever she needs me."

"Thank you." He walked out of my office, and I'm on my way to my other house where most of my men stay.

"Elexander, you are my best friend. Why are you doing this because of a girl?"

"She's not just a girl, Blake; she's my girl, and I've promised myself to protect her no matter what."

"Wait till I get out of here, asshole."

"What then? Blake, what are you going to do then? Don't push my buttons, Blake Reed. Your card, she made for you; she made me a card."

In a few seconds, as he looks at me, I look at him in anger; he lowers his head in shame.

"You will never be capable of love; you don't know the meaning of it."

"Really, and you do? Look at what you did, and she doesn't see you the way I see you now. I am truly sorry for what we did, Elexander. I really am."

"It's too late now; I'm done with you. You were my best friend, but you crossed the line, and I am done. Bill, could you come in, please?"

"Alexander? Oh shoot, I'm so sorry. Kill the bastard. Finish the fucker off."

Walking out of the basement, into my car, and driving to the bakery, I sit in the distance waiting for my girl to show up. I can see Neo walking in; I call him over. He stands by the window.

"Sir, you wanted to see me?"

"Yes, Neo. She will not accept that. You will have to tell her your job is on the line. Then maybe, if we're lucky, she will take it."

"Don't worry, sir, she will accept it; I will make sure of it."

A few minutes later, I see Neo walking out holding two bags.

"Sir, Miss Elara sent you a meal," she said. "You can't work without food. My girl always worrying about others."

Smiling, looking back, "Sir, are you smiling?"

"Why don't you take the rest of the night off?"

"Thank you."

She is almost done working; the bakery was not busy at all. The night came to an end as her co-workers walked in. She greeted them; she was out, and Anderson followed her. They talked for a few minutes. It seems she did agree to take the ride.