Page 16 of Christmas Delight (Night's Bliss)

“Fuck!”

“I called the doctor, and he is taking care of Mother’s body. The cleaner is coming to take care of everything else.”

“Where is he now?”

“He’s tied up in a cell, but I need you here now, Amer.”

“Fine. I’m on my way.” I end the call and stop myself from throwing my phone as I see the look of horror on Mara-Lee’s face.

“I take it that the phone call wasn’t good news?” she murmurs.

“No, it wasn’t. I have to go to my house.”

“I can’t. Please take me to the Fort before you go. Please, please,” she begs as panic sets in her voice.

“I can’t. I have to get there and handle something now. They can’t wait.”

“Amer, I don’t beg, but I’m begging you, please take me home. I can’t be there. Please,” she begs again, and tears well in her eyes.

“Stellina, remember what I told you? I would not let anyone hurt you ever again. That includes my family. Do you understand me?”

“Yes, but—” I cut her off.

“There’re no buts. You are mine, and I’ll protect what is mine until the day I die, Stellina,” I firmly state.

She looks down at the floorboard, knowing I’m not going to change my mind. I place my hand back on her thigh, soothing her the best way I can right now as I drive. Mara-Lee places her hand on top of mine, caressing my knuckles as I rub her thigh. She might not be talking to me, but this small gesture tells me she trusts me and knows I’ll keep her safe.

I focus on the road and try to keep my rage in check. When I turn the car off at home, I don’t know how I’m going to react. I need to keep my shit together so I know that Mara-Lee is safe. She is my main priority now, but this family business needs to be handled to assure Mara-Lee will be safe in the future.

I press the accelerator down a little more and pick up speed. The sooner I arrive at the house, the sooner all of this will be over, and I can move on with Mara-Lee at my side.