𝐏𝐈𝐄𝐑𝐂𝐄𝐃 // 𝐇.𝐒.

40.

Chapter 40

He hasn't called.

Then again, it's only seven in the morning. I tell myself to give him some time. Too concerned over my lost check, it snuck its way into my dreams last night. At one point, I woke up sweating, almost shivering, when I relived the loss ten times harder. I dreamt that it was unattainable.

That was a shit ton of money—it can't be gone just like that.

After getting up from the camp I made on the couch, I took a shower in the guest bathroom. I haven't stepped foot in the master bedroom at all. I haven't even glanced at the closed door or let my curiosity wonder if the place is as spotless as Harry mentioned.

I'm getting ready for my day when I decide that I can't stay here. I have to be anywhere, but here. It's painful to think I'm back, facing the reality I have dreaded for so long. Though, all that's left for me to do is try to get my life back on track.

After blowing out my hair, I put on my plaid baby blue blazer over a white satin cami top. Adjusting my loose jeans at my waist, I check my appearance one more time before leaving the bathroom. I planned on showing up to Fine Line Designs to see if my internship was still secured. Being days since I've last seen Niall, I feel nervous. I could only hope Harry didn't say anything to put my place in jeopardy.

On my way out of the apartment, I grab my leather handbag and I make sure my door is locked before walking away.

I'm looking down at my phone as I make it out of the building and step onto concrete with my heeled boots. I'm searching for a bus route to get to my destination. Heading East, I feel relieved when there's a metro station around the corner of the next block.

"Excuse me? Joelle D'Amore?"

I lift my head at the sound of an unfamiliar voice calling my name. I stop when I see a woman in a pantsuit lean off the side of her black car. She switches her cup of coffee from her right to her left hand and she flashes me a badge. "I'm Detective Rachel with the LAPD. I was advised this is your new residence?" Tucking her badge away, she then extends her arm for a shake.

It takes me a minute, a long one, to process the person before me. I turn to her with parting lips as I keep her handshake waiting.

Shit.

"Yes, hi," I greet, shaking the detective's hand as I try not to lose my shit. "I'm sorry... What is this for?"

When our hands fall from the quick grasp, the woman with dark hair and frown lines sends a smile my way. "I was wondering if you had any time? I have a few questions for you. I can assure you it won't take long."

Shit. Shit. Shit.

Without having to wonder much, I feel the panic already beginning to form inside the walls of my chest. This detective is here to ask me about August. I try to fix my composure, seem calm and collected, as I force a fake smile. "I'm afraid I'll miss my train for work, so this isn't the best time. I apologize."

Just as I'm about to slip past and walk away, the detective says, "Miss D'Amore, my questions revolve around August Reed."

Damn, Harry.

He told me the police would question me over her disappearance eventually. Though, he never prepared me for the talk. Instead, he advised me to point a finger at my ex-boyfriend. Walking away without showing an ounce of concern over August would only make me look bad, so I stop from going anywhere.

Was this detective staked outside waiting for me? For how long?

"August," I repeat her name out loud and it felt like a strike to my chest. I have to be careful with my responses, so I ask, "Is she alright? What is this about?"