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?"

is more than a con artist; he's a murderer, but I thought it unwise to share that information

you say about coming down to New York with me after

asked, her voice tinged with suspicion. "Why do you want me in New York?" Finally, she met my eyes. "Just because I'm not working at the

my intentions. I'm not trying to get you to relocate, Lily. New York is my territory; it's a place where I can protect you better. Just come stay

she still looked hesitant. "Are

safety and the safety of the kids are my top priority right now. New York is where I can ensure that

back at the boys playing in the pool. "Alright," she said softly. "For now, until

her hand, relieved. "Thank you. I promise you won't regret

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feeling the weight of potential arguments lift off my shoulders. If she had refused, I knew it would have led to a tense

***

with my family, I needed to get back to work. The boys weren't eager to leave either, but when they

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 more to do with the fact that they don't see me that often. They're always excited to spend time with me because it's a

as she watched the boys. "Maybe you're

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

softly. "Let's hope so. I just want us to

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

rolled her eyes, amusement flickering in them. "Whatever." We finally checked out and made our way to the private airport, where we boarded my jet that would take us back to New York. Prior to the day we were supposed

and walked out of the terminal, I sighed at the sight of the fleet of security cars undoubtedly waiting for us. Angelo stepped forward to greet the boys, and to my surprise, Liam recognized him right

a smile.

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attention to Lily. "It is lovely to see

smiled warmly. "Thank you, Angelo.

"You've always referred to

maids had already cleaned out the kids' room, turning the guestroom where Lily had slept before into

Lily as we entered the house. "We don't have