Chapter Fifty-One

Frankie

I don’t bother going after him. Nothing will help until he calms down. I call him, knowing he won’t pick up. He doesn’t, and I leave a voicemail.

“Hunter, I love you. Everything I did was out of love for you. To protect you. I hated what those people were saying about you, and I hated that the asshole who started it all is only getting a slap on the wrist. I did betray your trust. I admit that. I made a grave mistake. I thought I was helping you. That’s what you do for people you love. You help them. You protect them. Even if it means hurting them sometimes. And”—I gulp back a sob—“even if it means losing them. But I hope I haven’t lost you, Hunter, because I love you. I love you so much. Please call me.”

But I don’t expect him to call me.

And he doesn’t.

…

A month later…

“Congratulations, Frankie!”

I look up from my computer. Lisa is standing there with a huge smile on her face.

“For what?”

“Your article was nominated for a Best Buzz award!”

My eyes pop open. “How? It just came out two days ago.”

“I secretly submitted it a week ago,” she says. “I have an in with the committee, and they let me submit it early. I was so impressed by it, and I knew they would be, too. I was right! In my opinion, you’re a shoo-in.”

The Best Buzz award… It’s a coveted honor, but they usually look at serious investigative reporting from publications like ours. Not something frivolous like sex clubs. Then again, it’s all about the “buzz,” as they say.

“Wow.” I stand up and give her a quick hug. “Thank you for submitting it, Lisa.”

“You’re welcome. It’s so good. I think I may have you do more articles that go into more detail. One that focuses on submissives, and then one on Dominants. If only you could get into one of those clubs…”

“I’m afraid that’s impossible,” I say.

“I know, and I understand why. But the article is outstanding and so informative.”

“Thanks,” I say.

“The award will be given out at a gala in a couple of months. As soon as I have the date, I’ll let you know. You’ll definitely want it on your calendar.”

“Absolutely. Thanks again, Lisa.”

She whisks away, and I smile…for a moment.

Because my next thought is Hunter.

I’ve left several messages over the last few weeks, and he hasn’t answered any of them.

So I call Mandy instead, and then Izzy. Gigi doesn’t answer.

I finish the workday, go home, and once I’m alone, I cry.