Tease Me (Private Listing #4)

“If not, then he’s either an employee or blending in with the emergency personnel.” Seth grabs my shoulder. “I’ll book the hotel for tonight. We need to let the employees back in for their belongings.”

“We’ll move fast.” The officer nods and motions to his men.

Fuck appearances. She’s ours and we’re hers. I stride over to Madison, draw her into my arms, and hold her for a moment. “I’m glad you’re safe.”

She snuggles into me. “Thank you for showing me how.”

“I’d hoped you’d never need it.” I kiss the top of her head and guide her back to Coop’s arms. When I meet Coop’s eyes, I know he’ll keep her safe. “I’ll be back.”

Seth comes in and gives her a quick hug and a few quiet words before he joins me. We go around to the front and across the plaza where the employees all stand around talking. Seth steps forward to address them.

“We’re not sure what set off the alarm yet.” Seth’s voice rings out over the crowd.

They all quiet and turn their attention to him. My gaze scans for anyone who shouldn’t be here. And for the people I know should be out here and aren’t on assignment.

“The police are making sure it’s safe for us to go back inside. I know it’s late and you want to get home to your families. If you don’t need to return inside, you can head home and put your hours in tomorrow. Please check in with your manager before leaving. If you need to go into the building to get your belongings, we’ll let you know when it’s clear to do that.”

The crowd murmurs as people find their managers. I’ve spotted Peter and Courtney. They stand near Yvonne, the receptionist, but they aren’t talking to each other. Peter looks like he always does, not winded or sweating from running back up the stairs to the apartment.

If her stalker gained access, how? Is this just another scare tactic or was it an attempt to grab her?

Seth touches my arm. He nods to a space off to the side where we can talk and not be overheard.

“He might be over there.” I nod to the crowd. Someone hurt her again. They could be staring at us right now.

“Any description from Madison?” Seth leans back against the building and his gaze flows over the employees.

“Male, taller than her. Mask. All black.” I blow out my breath. “It was fast and she didn’t have time to get details. She protected herself and ran.”

Seth nods. He squeezes my shoulder. “Thank you for teaching her.”

I take out my phone. “I need to let Bill know what’s happening.”

“I’ll check to see when we can have the security footage.” Seth walks a few steps away to call.

I text Bill Carr, my friend on the force who’s working this case for us.

Me:

He tried to get her. He put his hand on her.

Bill:

At the office?

Me:

Yes

Bill:

I’ll be there

The same officer from around back comes over as I return my phone to my pocket. Seth joins us.

“This was on the ground outside of the elevators.” He holds up a baggie with a white key card that stays at the receptionist’s desk.

Seth talks to the officer but I block it out.