“You do not know him better,” I hiss.
She tilts her head, victorious. “Do you even know why he is the way he is?”
The question guts me.
Because I don’t. Not fully. “He’s a sadist... uh, because… He told me he hurts women because he wants to. Guess it’s his kink.”
Her smile sharpens. “Nope. Just proved my point. You don’t know that man. Now... write it. Tell him you found someone else. That you’re in love. Or better yet, tell him you never loved him!”
I whisper before I can stop myself, “But I do.”
She laughs. “God, you’re such a child.”
Riser steps closer, his shadow consuming me. “Write,” he orders, voice like gravel.
Tears sting my eyes. I can’t. I won’t!
Then—
“911, please state your address and emergency.”
Heads whip toward the hallway. Atticus stands there, defiant as Wilbur, his phone on speaker.
“42 Palm Road,” he says proudly. “Two intruders. One male, one female. Send help.”
Meghan hisses, “You retarded—”
But I spring to life. I crumble the letter and hurl it at her face.
I scream toward the phone: “Help me! They broke in! Meghan and Riser! They’re threatening me! Get here fast!”
The dispatcher replies, “Officers are on their way.”
“Better run,” Atticus warns, eyes blazing.
Meghan shoots daggers at me. “This isn’t over.”
They bolt.
Minutes later, blue and red lights bathe the living room in color. I tell the cops everything. So does Atticus.
They leave, heading to find Meghan next. But I slump on the couch, trembling, mascara streaking my cheeks.
“Why are you crying?” Atticus asks gently.
I choke back a sob. “I’m sorry. You did so good… I just miss Grayson and stupid Meghan always makes it hurt worse.”
Atticus frowns and mutters in disgust: “Wicked Lord Grayson.”
I smile, eyes watery. “He helped me get you back, remember?”
“Are you sure?”
I nod. “All of it. The house, the second job. You. He wasn’t perfect, but we both owe him.” I sigh in despair. “Meghan said he still loves me, too. I believe her. I believe her truly loved me. In his own twisted way.”
Atticus pauses... then holds up his phone.
“Quick-Quotes Quill,” he says.
