Unspoken Bundle - Box Set Books 1-6

by Danes, Ellie

  Chapter Fifty-One

  I lay back on the rounded, tan leather sofa that looked out over the city and the river. I had grown to love my new condo. It was more than just a place to live; it had become a retreat. I had only been here for a few weeks but it was definitely home. The cherry wood floors and ambient lighting gave the living room a permanent romantic feel. I sipped my glass of red wine as I waited for Cain to arrive with dinner. Things had been much calmer and less stressful than the previous week. It had almost been a week since our confrontation with Dean Harritan, and neither Dad nor I had heard anything more. Brice had been busy with his case and I was thankful to be mostly done with my part. Other than showing up for the court date, my job was complete.

  New cases were already lined up but they were much more straightforward. They were things that Reese—or even Aimee—could tackle alone, so we each had our own casework, with me supervising and lending my people reading skills as needed. Dad and I agreed to let the dust settle before going any further with our own investigation. Mom’s autopsy report included a toxicology report but they didn’t test for everything they should have. Pushing further could mean putting Dad and I through a more traumatic experience and possibly needing to exhume her body, something neither of us wanted to think about.

  I watched the tall bank building across from the condo as night fell and office lights began to dim, creating a polka dot effect of light within the building. I began to lose myself as I guessed which floor would have the next light to go out. I enjoyed the tranquility of the evening but my stomach gave a slight twinge of hunger. I grabbed my phone and sent Cain a quick text.

  Are you close? I’m starving. ;)

  Moments later there was a knock at the door and I was pleased to see Cain on the monitor display. He was carefully juggling a few bags and a bottle of wine as he patiently waited for me to open the door.

  “Talk about service!” I smiled and grabbed a bag and the bottle of wine while giving his gorgeous mouth a quick kiss. The distinct packaging of Niro Sushi and smell of dumplings took me by surprise. I hadn’t realized it was what I was craving until it arrived. I wasn’t sure what I was happier to see, the food or Cain, but I knew I need a little of both tonight for me to fully relax and enjoy the evening.

  “Sorry, I was running a little behind tonight. I had a last minute call from the west coast.” I rolled my eyes at Cain and smiled. His new venture seemed to be taking off. I was excited for him but selfishly hated that he was going to be traveling more until things were under control. “Lots of things going on out there.”

  I gave him an understanding smile. “I know, lots of things to do with the new company.” I reached in and began to unpack the sushi, creating a gourmet spread for us.

  “No, actually it was Paul, a realtor I spoke with last time I was out there. He’s found some houses near San Diego. I thought maybe we could go out sometime in the next few weeks and look at them. You know, a place to stay when we’re out there.” Cain gave me his million-dollar smile and popped one of the bite size pieces of sushi in my mouth, sealing it with a kiss. “I wouldn’t want to pick anything without you seeing it. I want you to love it.”

  I wasn’t sure to be excited or upset. Buying a house in San Diego was exciting, but it also meant that Cain would likely be spending even more time away. I knew I wouldn’t be able to run the firm and manage my caseload while taking off with him every week, or every other week for that matter. “I…I appreciate that.” I grabbed his hand and held it for a moment. “So, you’re going to be out there a lot, huh?” I was afraid of the answer.

  “Some, but I’m sure we would be together. Eventually you’ll have help here, right? That would allow you to escape with me.” Cain grabbed the large plate of sushi and made his way to the couch, setting it down next to my wine glass on the table.

  “I don’t know, Cain. I’ve worked really hard to get this firm going. I can’t just up and leave whenever I want.” I felt the evening quickly slipping away along with my appetite. “I’m sorry, this just isn’t the way I thought things were headed with us.” I sat down on the couch and grabbed my glass of wine, taking a big swig.

  “Neither did I, Jen. I guess we both have new businesses to build. I just thought that maybe—”

  “Maybe what? That mine was less important, or that I’d be open to just giving it up?” I could feel myself getting frustrated and while I knew why, I really didn’t want to be. Deep down inside I knew I wanted to be with Cain, but I wanted him to know that things in my life were important too. “Never mind. Can we talk about this some other time? I was looking forward to just relaxing and having some quiet time with you.”

  Cain could see from my lopsided smile that I was clearly upset. “I’m sorry, Jen. That’s not what I meant at all. Honestly, I just thought that maybe there was a way we could spend some time in both places, maybe consider opening up a Dunning and Associates branch out there.” Cain placed his hand on my knee and looked into my eyes. “I didn’t mean anything else, I promise.”

  “Ok, let’s just drop it for now.” An uncomfortable silence filled the room for a few minutes and I realized I was unfairly punishing Cain for something he hadn’t intended. I stared at him as he ate in silence next to me. His gorgeous features, perfect hair and chiseled chin all made me smile. “Let’s see how the next few months go at the firm. I’ll schedule some time out of the office so we can make a few trips. I promise to keep an open mind.” I smiled at him as I thought about how our life may be ten years from now. Likely just as busy. I didn’t see Cain as a person that was willing to slow down. He had such a passion for business and for life.

  “That sounds perfect.” Cain nodded in agreement as I reached over and jokingly poked him in the ribs, like I had many times before when I tried to lighten the mood. “Ouch!” Cain winced in pain and dropped his elbow to guard his ribs.

  I quickly pulled back my hand. My wide eyes and open mouth making my surprise obvious. “What’s wrong?”

  “It’s nothing. I pulled a muscle, or maybe smacked it on a rock the other day when Brice and I were climbing.” Cain chuckled. “Nothing to worry about. I’m just not used to that kind of action. Been a long time.”

  “Maybe we should keep it that way. I worry about you. Remember what you told Brice? Now you have a reason not to be reckless. Let’s keep it that way. Ok?” I playfully acted like I was going to poke him again but didn’t, although he still bent to the side, causing his own pain as he winced again. “See? No more.”

  Cain laughed. “Maybe, we’ll see. It was good getting out and having some fun like that.” Cain grabbed my glass of wine and took a big sip. “Helps with the pain.” He smiled and took another sip.

  We both finished the sushi, dumplings and the other bottle of wine. I dragged Cain off to the bedroom so we could both relax and fall asleep. As much as I always wanted him, I was happy to just have him by my side tonight, in one piece. We sank into the bed, covered by the thick down comforter, and watched the city lights outside of the large windows of my bedroom. The faint sound of the city below barely made it to the upper floors of the building, adding to the tranquility of my little slice of paradise. I wrapped my arm around Cain’s solid chest and carefully hugged him, careful not to hurt is sore ribs. I gently kissed him on the mouth and watched as he fell asleep next to me, this time in my arms.

  Chapter Thirteen

  Outside was only illuminated by the city buildings in the distance when the alarm began to blare. It was early and cold, and after a long, cozy night’s sleep next to Cain, the last thing I wanted to do was climb out of bed and get ready for work. I rolled over and slapped the clock to silence the loud music coming from the speakers and then tucked myself back in next to Cain. He felt warm and inviting as I tossed my leg over his and pulled myself in closer. “Morning.” I smiled as I stared at him. He must be one of the few people that can look just as good in the morning as he does in the evening.

  “Morning, gorgeous.” Cain gen
tly kissed me and rubbed his warm, strong hand on my leg, sliding it up to my ass and then pulling me in even closer. “Up for a little breakfast? I can whip something up for us.”

  “Sounds perfect.” I pulled the heavy down comforter up toward my head and snuggled in deeper as Cain slid out of bed. I watched as he stood there in his tight CK boxers, leaving nothing to my imagination. His chiseled chest and abs glowed in the light from outside and the slowly rising sun. He spun on his heel and made his way from the bedroom as I admired his perfectly round butt and v-shaped back. I thought to myself just how lucky I was as he vanished off to the kitchen.

  The smell of coffee wafted into the bedroom as the sounds of clinking pots and pans echoed off of the hardwood flooring of the condo. My stomach growled as I imagined what Cain may be cooking up for us. He eventually arrived with a tray of coffee and perfectly sculpted omelets, which looked like they had been cooked by a professional chef. He was a man of many talents. “Breakfast in bed for two.” He smiled. The sight of Cain, half naked and carrying breakfast was an image I would never forget. It was definitely a vision that would get me through the rest of the day.

  We lounged as long as we could before I had to make a mad scramble to get ready for work. I was looking forward to the upcoming weekend and some much needed downtime. No more unpacking, moving or bringing home work for the weekend. I thanked Cain for the breakfast and promised to repay him for it tonight. Cain laughed as I dashed through the condo, running to and from the shower, applying makeup and getting dressed all at the same time. I impressed myself by getting ready in just thirty minutes. Normally my morning ritual took at least an hour.

  The lobby was packed, as usual, with people rushing to their offices. I stood with the small group, waiting for the elevator as I took in the sights. My phone buzzed with a new text message and I smiled, hoping it was from Cain, but it wasn’t. It was Dad.

  Please stop by my office when you arrive.

  The doors opened and I decided to head straight to the DDC offices on the twelfth floor and avoid the extra stop on eleven. Dad’s door was closed and I hesitated to knock, not knowing whether he expected me immediately or not. I tapped a few times and cautiously poked my head in to see my father sitting at his desk, his back turned toward the door. “Dad?”

  “Jen, come in.” Dad didn’t bother to turn to face me. “Please, shut the door.” His voice quivered slightly and as the door clicked shut dad spun slowly in his chair to reveal his red, blotchy face and bloodshot eyes.

  “Dad? What’s going on?” I hastened my pace toward his desk.

  “It’s done.”

  “What is?”

  “I received a couple of calls this morning. Louise Harritan has been arrested.” Dad gave me a tight-lipped smile. It was a cross between happiness and devastating sadness.

  The weight of the news hadn’t set in because I didn’t fully understand exactly what I was hearing. “How did the police connect her?”

  “They searched the Harritans’ house. When Jacob confessed to tainting the beer that made those two kids sick they investigated the source. They found out, like you did, that Jacob had access to the plant in his mother’s greenhouse. He apparently tried to cover for her, but the police weren’t fooled.”

  I collapsed in the chair. “Good.” I stared at Dad, still unsure of why he was so upset. I didn’t believe that he really cared for Louise in that way. I was relieved the connection had been made. At least she would pay for something. “So, why have you been crying?”

  “There’s more.” Dad took in another deep breath and exhaled. “They’re holding her for your mother’s death.” His eyes filled with tears again and his bottom lip quivered.

  My stomach flipped and I almost threw up the gourmet omelet I’d had for breakfast. My heart thudded in my chest as I struggled for words, any words. I could only stare blankly at my father. “But…how?” It was the only thing I could manage to get out of my mouth.

  “Dean called me.” He wiped away the tear and reached for the box of tissues on his desk, handing me one. “He called and apologized to me. He was torn up. He said with everything going on with Jacob, when the police started digging, he pressed her. He wanted to know why she would have given Jacob that poison.” Dad collected himself a bit more and continued. “He said that Louise confessed that she was trying to help the family. That is that baby was gone, there was not chance that girl would try and come after Jacob and their money. Dean pressed her about your mother and she confessed to everything. She confessed to doing the same thing to save her marriage with Dean.”

  My mouth fell open in disbelief at the turn of events. “And she just told the police this?”

  “No. She wanted Dean to keep it quiet. He went to the police. He said he couldn’t keep her secret, that he loved Samantha and that he owed it to us.” Dad craned his neck, trying to stretch away the tension. “It’s over, Jennifer.”

  Tears streamed from my eyes as I quickly made my way around the desk to hug my father. Everything had happened so quickly; I was overwhelmed. I wasn’t sure what to do or say. I wanted to celebrate and mourn at the same time. All these years, Louise Harritan had known what happened to my mother. All of these years my father had been in the dark, sheltered from the truth. So quickly his world was turned upside down. I turned his world upside down. I hated myself, but I was proud of what I had uncovered.

  “Jennifer, your mother would be so proud of you.” Dad hugged me tightly as his tears flowed. “She would be so proud that you followed your heart, your gut. You are so much stronger than I ever gave you credit for.”

  The words “Thank you,” sputtered from my mouth as I buried my face in my father’s chest, still crying. I hugged him for as long as I could and finally took a step back, giving him a faint smile. “Now what?”

  “Now we move forward. It will be tough, but justice will be served.” He met my faint smile with his own. “Finally, we have answers and will get some closure.”

  Chapter Fifty-Two

  The warmer months melted away the last bits of snow and brought lengthening days. Spring made coming to the office much more enjoyable, and the more balanced caseload and new employees made my business life more tolerable. Just as I promised Cain, I began to schedule more time out of the office and spent it on the west coast with him. I was able to work in the new condo he had purchased that overlooked the ocean. It was beautiful, but I sometimes found it difficult to concentrate. All I wanted was to put my feet in the sand and play.

  A lot had changed in the months since our first big case and uncovering all of the details of my mother’s death. Word had circulated that Dunning and Associates was the go-to investigative group. We were being contacted daily by both small and large firms to represent them and their clients. We had hired more staff and had begun to take on larger cases. It was both rewarding and overwhelming. I scrambled to balance my personal and professional lives and realized that something was going to have to give. They were both suffering because I couldn’t give either the attention they deserved.

  Eventually I had to pull back and spend less time traveling with Cain and more time in my own office, training employees, working with clients and getting things done. I owed that much to everyone that I had hired and everyone that took a chance on me. The work was satisfying, but very difficult, and my decision took a toll on my relationship with Cain. I felt like it had become a long distance relationship of sorts. When he was away, I struggled. When he was here, we were inseparable. We made love, enjoyed each other’s company, played hard and were happier than ever. It made me wonder if this was really the life I truly wanted. Did I really want to juggle work and love? It shouldn’t be this hard.

  I stared out of the window and saw the crashing waves before my eyes. The sound of the seagulls was deafening and I could almost feel the heat reflecting off of the sand. I saw Cain approaching from the distance. “Jennifer…” I smiled at him. “Jennifer?” I felt the smack on my shoulder. “Hello, Earth to
Jennifer, are you here?” Aimee sat next to me in the eleventh floor conference room amidst a stack of paperwork. “Where were you? I’d been talking to you for the last five minutes.”

  The smack of reality hurt and I realized just how much I really did miss Cain when he was away. “I’m sorry, I was just thinking…”

  “Yeah, obviously. Hopefully it was about the Miller case.” Aimee held up a sheet with a list of names on it. “Tomorrow at ten. That’s when Derek Johnston from Craine and Johnston needs us at court for voir dire.” Aimee scribbled the information down on the large calendar in front of her.

  “Ok, got it.” I grabbed a file from the table. “What’s going on with Collington?”

  “I met with them yesterday. Divorce case. They want us to dig up some info on the husband. Pretty basic stuff.” Aimee smiled. “And these two are wrapped up, they just need your sign off. I’ve already completed the reports.”

  I nodded as I flipped through the files, impressed at the skill and effort Aimee had put into them. I was extremely pleased. Initially I only needed her help as an assistant, but she had caught on so quickly over the last few months that I was now able to give her some casework of her own, with very little supervision.

  “Are you Ok?” Aimee had a look of concern on her face. “You seem a little out of it today.”

  “It’s just been a long week. I haven’t seen Cain in four days. He’s getting back tomorrow night.” I leaned back in my chair, feeling defeated. “I’ll be Ok. I just live for the weekends now. It’s almost the only time we get to see each other. I mean, when he’s not traveling we are together, or when he’s not out with Brice.” I smirked at Aimee but I could tell she took offense to my last comment and I quickly apologized. I had no one to blame but Cain and myself for how we had drifted apart. It’s not what he wanted. Cain had made every effort to accommodate me. I just wouldn’t accommodate him.