18. Leslie

Chapter 18

Leslie

The knock on the door has me jumping and glancing around frantically. I've been on edge since Ollie spoke to me and even more so since I talked to Uncle Mason last night.

Being at Colt's house has eased some of my anxiety. I have no doubt I'll be safer here than at my own place, but I'm still scared.

I don't think Snow has left my side since I got home from work and I'm so thankful for that. I'm not sure if she'd actually attack Jimmy if he showed up here, but I'll happily watch if she does.

Quickly pulling up the camera feed on my phone, I check to see who's at the door. Colt made sure to show me how to use the entire security system last night and it's nice to be able to see who's at the door without going anywhere near it.

As soon as I realize who it is, I rush to the door and fling it open.

"Sophia!" I squeal as I tug her into my arms, making her drop her bag on her foot.

"Leslie!" She squeals back, then shakes her head. "Nope. I still don't like that name."

I release her and allow her to step into the house completely. As soon as the door shuts, I twist the lock and engage the security system again. I'm not taking any chances, especially with Sophia here.

"Next time you decide to change your name, can we at least discuss it first? You could've done so much better than Leslie." She rolls her eyes.

"Well, I'm hopeful there won't be another time." I wave her off. "Let me show you around."

I lead her through the house, showing her all of my favorite aspects of the house. Colt wasn't lying when he said I'd be getting an upgrade by moving in. His home is beautiful.

"And this is where you'll be staying." I motion to the spare room a few doors down from Colt's bedroom.

"Dang, this place is gorgeous. Dad would be so proud of this craftsmanship." She runs her fingers over the wooden beam going up the wall. "So, who's house is this? Because you weren't living here the last time I visited. I heard some rumors. Is this the sheriff's house?" Sohpia pins me with a pointed look.

"It's Colt's house. He's my boyfriend and the town's sheriff." I keep my voice strong and firm. I know Sophia's going to see right through it, but it's worth a try.

"Ah, and exactly how long have you been dating?" She quirks a brow.

"About twenty-four hours, give or take a few hours."

"Zoey Meredith Moore! You moved in with him in a day?" She hisses under her breath like someone is going to hear us.

"Well, Jimmy's been missing and I kinda broke down and told Colt everything. He insisted I moved in with him so he could protect me. What was I supposed to do? I don't want to live by myself on a normal day, especially when my backyard is woods for miles and miles. Anyone could be hiding back there! Add in Jimmy, and sleeping in the sheriff's arms at night sounds pretty freaking nice!"

"Does Uncle Mason know?" Her anger melts instantly and is replaced with concern. She knows exactly what happened between Jimmy and I. The entire family does .

"Yeah, I spoke to him yesterday and Colt's been talking to him. They're handling it and I'm happy to stay out of it."

"Ok, I'll drop it then… When does Colt get home? I can't wait to meet him." Her eyes light up with mischief and I let out a loud groan.

"Who can't wait to meet me?" Colt's deep voice comes from behind me, making me jump. "Sorry, beautiful, I thought you heard me come in." He presses a soft kiss to my cheek before wrapping an arm around my waist and pulling my back flush against his chest.

I swear he constantly holds me like this. I don't know if he feels like he's protecting me, or if he just likes to touch me. Either way, I love it and I hope he doesn't stop.

"Sophia, this is Colt. Colt, this is Sophia."

"It's nice to meet you, Sohpia. Leslie's told me a lot about you." Colt holds out his hand to shake Sophia's.

She eyes Colt for a moment before she turns an amused grin on me. "You always did like the boy next door types. It's nice to meet you, Colt."

She shakes his hand, but before he can say anything else, the doorbell rings.

"Who could that be?" I glance up at Colt with furrowed brows .

"Probably Peck. I invited him over for dinner. I hope you don't mind. He doesn't really know anyone in town and I'm trying to change that."

"Of course not. It will give Sophia someone else to torture too."