“Don’t worry. I’ll make it quick. This time.”
Before he can follow through on his threat, we both hear the incoming footsteps.
“Seems our time is up, for now. Until we meet again, princess.”
Then he’s gone.
I suck in a breath of fresh air, letting it burn my lungs. I sag in relief, but only for a moment. His face is quickly replaced by one I never wanted to see close up.
“What the fuck are you doing here, Willow?” Chase growls at me.
“Hi. I’m fine. Thanks for asking,” I rasp.
Sitting up, I bring one hand up to my throat, rubbing the ache. I hope it won’t bruise, bringing me unwanted attention. My head immediately begins to throb.
The glare he sends my way would scare most men, but not me. I don’t have time for his shit.
“I found a jacket,” Nate’s voice calls out.
“Of fucking course. Listen, I’ll just take my jacket and be on my way.” I stand, but wobble.
My head begins pounding even more. My vision becomes blurry, I collapse. Before I blackout, I feel strong arms wrap around me.
I must only be out minutes because when I open my eyes again, I’m in Chase’s arms being carried.
“Put me down,” I groan, reaching up to feel my head.
He grunts but doesn’t put me down. A couple more feet and he enters a house, taking me to a couch and lying me on it.
I try to sit up, but he pushes me back down.
“Let me look at your head.”
“I’m fine.”
“Stop being stubborn.”
He leans over me, bringing with him the strong scent of tobacco.
“Ow. Fuck.” I pull away as his fingers as they prod my head.
“How is she?” Nate asks from across the room.
“She’s sitting right here,” I ground out as Chase continues his examination.
“I think she has a concussion. Follow my finger.”
I roll my eyes, wincing when it hurts as I push into a sitting position.
“I’m fine. I’m going to go now. Where’s my jacket?”
Nate walks closer, handing it to me.
I go to stand, but Chase places his hands on my knees, preventing me from moving.
“What happened out there?”
“Some guy was stalking you. I tried to warn you.” I shrug like it’s no big deal.
