Trust Me [Book 2]

Chapter 20 Part 2: Her Army *Rick's POV*

Chapter 20 Part 2 – [November 9th]

••Rick's POV••

I had it all. Finally. My whole family was back together and everything I've dreamed of for years was within reach.

And then it was gone.

I hadn't been able to get in touch with Elle since our brief phone call when she told me not to contact her anymore. I made three trips to her apartment but she wasn't there. Waiting time was over- I had to find my Sweets. We needed to calmly talk without her overreacting and jumping to conclusions. She would understand why I still talked to Skye and why Rocky met her. Once I explained, she would understand everything and come back.

Those were the words I'd drilled into my mind since last night. In actuality, I didn't expect Elle to understand or even act rationally but I had to stay positive. I couldn't lose her again. I couldn't even entertain the thought.

But first I had to find her.

I parked on the street in front of the large home in the peaceful suburban neighborhood. The first person I could think of, on my own, for Elle to run to was Mrs. Anderson. She wouldn't go to her friends for marriage advice, that much I knew. Judging by the blue Camry in the driveway, I guessed right. I asked Elaine for help but she was so pissed at me for making Elle mad. I pointed out that Elle was always mad at me but she said it was different.

"You did what?!" she screamed through the phone. "You're a big stupid idiot. How did you ruin this in a week?"

"Call her and find out where she is."

"...No."

"Elaine stop being annoying and call Elle."

"I am going to call her later but not for you. You're on your own, stupid. I'm not risking my friendship with Elle for you anymore."

The wind kicked up, blowing fallen leaves from across the street over into the yard. I zipped up my jacket a little higher as I approached the front door. The slightest bit of apprehension passed through the tips of my fingers as I rang the doorbell.

It took five minutes for the door to open but when it did, I wished it hadn't. Elle's father face pulled into a scowl. He crossed his arms, widening his stance.

Damnit!

"Good morning sir," I said.

He tilted his head to the side, not offering any words.

"May I speak to Elle?"

"Elle?" He repeated, stepping closer to the doorframe.

"Brielle," I clarified although I was sure none of the other sisters were called Elle.

"She isn't here."

I glanced back at the blue car then tried to look around Mr. Anderson. "That's her car–"

"Why don't you step in so we can have a little chat?"

For the nine years I knew Mr. Anderson, he had never wanted to 'chat' with me. I knew it wouldn't be a good idea to decline since I was in the doghouse with Elle. But at the same time, I knew Elle didn't get along with her father.

I hesitated for only a moment. He stepped back and I entered the house. Closing the door, I started towards the family room but he put his hand on my chest with more force than necessary to stop me.