"Daniel?" My voice quivered.
"Roni." He takes me into a tight hug.
My heart accelerates in excitement and emotion. We haven't talked since the call about my baby girl Elena. I honestly thought I wasn't going to see him ever again but now here he is and I'm so happy to see him. We've had our past together and having him in times like these make me feel even more protected.
"What? How did you get inside? How the hell are you here? I thought you were in the army?" I rambled questions.
He smiles. "Yes, I was in the army but due to a leg injury, I was discharged. How did I get into your house? Simple life hacks I learned."
I look down to examine his leg but he puts his hand on my cheek.
"Don't worry my leg is still attached and doing well. It was just an ankle sprain. Most of it was just an act so I could get out."
I frown then ask, "how did you manage to fool the ARMY?"
"Money talks, Roni. Point is, I'm back. I want to come back to you."
I just smile in awkwardness because of Corey being here just watching us.
He might be feeling the same way because he says,
"I'm going to make a quick phone call. I'll be in the kitchen if you need anything. Be on the lookout."
I nod then he leaves.
"Be on the lookout for what?" Daniel asks.
By the tone of his voice, he probably already knows it has to be gang-related.
I huff. "I'm in some deep shit, Daniel."
"With who? Lorenzo?"
He's already clenching his fist. It's clear these two shouldn't be in the same room together.
I shake my head. "It's someone far more dangerous. He's fucking insane. I'll explain everything to you but after I take a shower. I was taken hostage for two damn days."
There was sarcasm in my last sentence but he obviously doesn't know anything so he freaks out.
"You were taken a fucking hostage? By who? Where the fuck was Lorenzo? I thought he was going to 'protect' you?" He shouts.
"Daniel, calm down. It was Lorenzo who took me- Listen I'll explain everything, okay? Everything will make sense when I tell you what happened."
He nods as he's trying to control his breathing.
"I'll only take a few minutes. If anyone knocks don't open the door just let Corey know," I tell him.
Again he nods.
I reach over to give him a kiss on the cheek.
I begin to leave but he grabs my hand and pulls me against his chest.
"I miss you." His whisper in my ear makes shivers run down my spine.
"Me too."
-
After a twenty minute hot delicious shower, I change into short pajamas and wear an oversized black hoodie. It feels so good to be back and finally take a good warm shower.
I make my way downstairs and was surprised to see Daniel and Corey sitting down having a conversation. Unlike Gustavo, Corey is actually giving Daniel a chance. Gustavo sees his friend doesn't get along with him and he does the same. I appreciate Corey doing this.
Corey notices me and gets up slowly. "I guess I'll let y'all talk privately but make it short. I'll be outside keeping watch."
I nod. "Thanks, Corey."
