Becoming Strangers Again by Lily

Chapter 115 RYAN

Today, we decided to stay back at the apartment and finally make use of the pool, which had been lying unattended ever since we arrived. According to Lily, the boys knew how to swim, so I didn't have to worry too much about one of them jumping into the pool, though we still kept a vigilant eye on them.

My phone vibrated in my pocket, and I pulled it out, seeing that Detective Larry was calling. I swiped the receive button and, knowing this conversation would likely involve some colorful language, I got off the lounge chair and moved away from the kids.

"What the f**k is this news I'm reading about Jake?" I hissed into the phone, trying to keep my voice low but failing to hide my irritation. Lily hadn't seen it yet. because she decided to turn off her phone for the rest of the trip, wanting to fully enjoy herself during this vacation.

She somehow believes that every time she turns on her phone, trouble finds her- specifically, trouble in the form of Jake.

"It seems someone tipped him off about our arrival," Detective Larry replied. "But I assure you, we will find him soon. This has escalated from a simple case of impersonation to that of a wanted murderer." The thought of Jake being anywhere near Lily was chilling. "Who did he kill?" I asked, my mind racing with concern.

"That isn't something you need to worry about, sir. The murder isn't connected to you or Ms. Urch in any way," he assured me. "But rest assured, we are committed to finding him soon."

This situation was infuriating. "Keep me posted," I said, reaching to disconnect the call, but Larry stopped me.

"Just in case he reaches out to your wife in any way, do not hesitate to let us know immediately," he added.

"I will," I promised before ending the call, feeling the weight of the situation pressing down on me.

I scoffed. "For the sake of everyone involved, I hope he doesn't reach out to her, or

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you guys will be draing with two murder dates Disconnecting the call, I strolled Back to the poolside, trying to rein in my frustration.

1uy who had noticed my absence, handed the nanny the towel she was holding ared approached me. "Is everything okay?" she asked, sitting down next to me. "You bwek spent

I took a deep breath, my anger simmering beneath the surface. "They weren't able as ge Jake," I informed her, and her frown mirrored mine instantly. Reaching for her hand. I held it and squeezed gently. "Don't let that bother you. I'm sure they will get him in due time"

sy licked her lips nervously. "I hope so too. I would hate to live constantly looking over my shoulder." She turned her gaze back to the boys, who were happily splashing in the pool. "How crazy is it that I introduced a con artist into the lives of my children?"

than a con artist; he's a murderer, but I thought it unwise to

York with me after this vacation?" I suggested, watching her expression

bit her lower lip, deliberately avoiding my gaze. "Why?" she asked, her voice tinged with suspicion. "Why do you want me in New York?" Finally, she met my eyes. "Just because I'm not

a place where I can protect you better. Just come stay with me until Jake

she still looked hesitant. "Are you sure it's

of the kids are my top priority

pool. "Alright," she said softly. "For now, until Jake

you. I promise you won't

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relieved at that moment. "Thank you so much," I said, feeling the weight of potential arguments lift off my shoulders. If she had refused, I knew it would have led to

***

finally came to an end. As much as I loved spending time with my family, I needed to get back to work. The boys weren't eager to leave either, but when they heard that they would be

of going to Daddy's house. "Sometimes, I think they love you more than they love me," she said with a playful smile. I chuckled, shaking my head in disagreement. "I think it has

boys. "Maybe you're right. Either way, it's nice to see them

arm around her shoulders and pulled her close. "It is. And they'll be even happier once we

leaned into me, sighing softly. "Let's hope so. I just

the top of her head. "We'll make sure of

my jet that would take us back to New York. Prior to the day we were supposed to return,

moment we disembarked and walked out of the terminal, I sighed at the sight of the fleet of security cars undoubtedly waiting for us. Angelo stepped

back, boss," he greeted me with a smile. I tapped his back

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his attention to Lily. "It is lovely

you, Angelo. It's good to

pulling him into a hug. "You've always referred

had instructed, the maids had already cleaned out the

be staying with me," I informed Lily as we entered the house. "We don't have to sleep in separate