Saving Belle

Chapter 16

MATT

I placed my lips on Belles head. I breathed in her aroma of strawberries. I kicked myself with being too rough with her but Belle took it. I was amazed that she did.

I have been waiting a long time to get this opportunity and tonight wasn't how I planned to end the day. But I needed Belle distracted from Kalebs' threats.

I had called in a favour before I walked in to her bathroom and getting all these documents that Kaleb had promised.

When I was sure Belle was in a deep sleep, I slipped my arms out from her hold and snuck off the bed. Pulling up some pants, I stepped lightly out of the room, heading straight for my office. I was exhausted but I need to pull through to read what I needed.

I heard my phone ping earlier, letting me know of an email coming through and I hoped it was what I was after.

I turned on my laptop and sat at my desk. After several long seconds I could log in and I went straight for the mailbox.

Yes, there it was. I scanned through the email, opening every PDF and all the notes attached to it.

After I was done, I sat back, placing my feet on the table and my hands behind my head.

Belle was right. There was embezzlement done by Kaydan. I sighed in relief.

I hoped Belle was correct. Why am I second guessing her? Belle ran most of her adult life away from domestic violence. She tried so hard to get away from her husband. I've seen the marks he had left on her.

That was one reason why I was rough with her. Once she had consented, there was no way I would ever let her leave. I know that I had promised her she could walk, but not now. Not that I've had her. I rather break our promise and her trust then never have her again.

Belle is like the rarest jewel one can find. She can never be replaced. She is my heart and my soul.

I sat for a few more minutes in thought when my phone went off. Frowning, I checked it.

A text message.

Three days left.

I looked at the number. Who is this? I thought to myself. I forwarded the message with a personal note to a mate.

I shook my head, yawning. I got up from my chair and silently back up the stairs to the bedroom. I climbed into bed and automatically went straight for Belle. I held her close and kissed the back of her head.

I'll never let her go.

BELLE

With every step I took it became easier. Inhale, exhale. I told myself. The pain slowly disappeared. I held onto my phone playing music as I adjusted the ear phones before continuing.

I watched the sunrise in front of me as I passed other early morning joggers.

I felt my hair bounce left and right with every step.

I felt refreshed as I continued around the block. It's been a while since I jogged and I had forgotten how big the block actually was.

I slowed my pace as I ran up the drive way. Slinking inside the door I quickly took my shoes off and placed them next to the door.

I headed for my room and went straight for the shower. Quickly stripping out of my sweaty clothes and finally allowing myself some water from the drink bottle I held.

I stepped in the refreshing shower, letting the water run down off my head. I closed my eyes, enjoying the moment.

Then I felt two hands on my waist as I screamed.