Chapter 61

Emily POV

Going through Jacob’s address book, Ruth is the only familiar name I’ve come across. Leaving Liam with Mason is not an option. If he’s in cahoots with Jacob, the first thing he’ll do is let him know that I’ve left.

So I take a chance and call Ruth. She answers almost immediately.

“Helloooooo.”

“Hi Ruth, it’s Emily,” I say.

I expect her to put the phone down, but her voice bellows over the line, “Dear Emily, how lovely to hear from you.”

I’m completely caught off guard with her friendly greeting. It’s not the Ruth I know. But then again, those were under very different circumstances.

“Ruth, I know it’s very short notice but I have a huge favor to ask of you,” I say.

“Of course, how can I be of help?” she asks politely. It’s as if she’s a robot that’s been reprogrammed to say “yes” to my every command.

“I need you to look after Liam for a few hours,” I beg.

“For when?” she asks.

“For now?” I say more as a question than an answer.

She doesn’t hesitate and immediately