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Fuck, my face was hurting more and more by the minute. And I was hungry. Was I feeling light-headed because I needed to eat,or because of my head injury? Or just because I was growing two humans, and I needed to take care of myself?
“Are we at least allowed to make a phone call?”
The cop shrugged. “Do what you like.”
Pulling my phone from my bag, I closed my eyes for a moment, working through how I was going to ask Rhett for his help.
Part of me didn’t want to give him the satisfaction of admitting I needed him. But the throbbing pain in my face and the cold metal bench under my ass made the decision for me. I hit call.
The line clicked after a few rings. “Well, well, if it isn’t my favorite tree-hugging attorney,” Rhett’s smooth voice came over the line, instantly making me roll my eyes.
“Rhett, I...” I glanced around at the crowded holding area. “I’m in a bit of a situation here.”
“What sort of situation?”
I clenched my jaw, instantly regretting this. “I’m at the Four Oaks police station...in a holding cell.”
There was a pause before Rhett let out a low chuckle. “You’re kidding.”
“Does it sound like I’m kidding?” I snapped. “I got arrested during a protest for trying to stop them from cutting down an ancient oak.”
I could practically hear Rhett’s grin growing wider.
“You’re laughing at me, aren’t you?” I snapped. “This is serious, Rhett!”
“Oh, I’m sure it is, my girl,” he drawled. “Getting yourself thrown in the slammer for civil disobedience. Very principled of you.”
“I didn’t do anything! I was just the legal counsel there to make sure everything was above board.” I huffed out an exasperated breath. “You know what, never mind. This was a mistake.”
“Now, now, no need to get your panties in a twist. Where exactly is this delightful establishment holding you hostage?”
“The Four Oaks precinct, but forget it. I’ll figure something else out.”
“You think I’m going to miss the opportunity to see you, with my own two eyes, in the lockup? I’m already in the car, sweetheart.”
I opened my mouth to protest, but he had already disconnected the call. Dropping my phone into my purse, I shook my head. Of course, he would find this whole ridiculous situation amusing. Part of me hoped he would just stay away. The other part... well, that was the part that had called him in the first place, wasn’t it?
It wasn’t even twenty minutes before Rhett walked into the station. His eyes found mine across the crowded room and a slow, cocky grin spread across his face. He tipped his head, indicating that I should join him at the counter. I walked over on stiff legs, wincing at the aches in my body from sitting so long.
“Aren’t you just a regular rebel without a cause?” His eyes roamed over me in that possessive way that made my skin prickle with awareness.
“Don’t start with me, Rhett. This is serious.”
Then his gaze zeroed in on the bruise blossoming on my cheekbone, and his cocky grin faded into a tight line. “What thefuck is this?” Before I could respond, his large hand came up and cupped my chin, tilting my face to get a better look at the bruise.
“Oh, um, it’s nothing. Just got caught up in the crowd, and um, I don’t really know…” I let my words trail away, unable to tear my eyes away from the intensity in his.
Rhett’s jaw clenched. “And they just let him walk away after assaulting you?” His tone was low, dangerous.
“Well, um, he’s…”
“Sir—”
Now the cop behind the counter decided to take some action. Unfortunately for him, Rhett was having none of it. “Don’t you fucking sir me. Why is my woman standing here with a bruise like this on her face?”
My. Woman. Holy Jesus fucking Christ.
“I’ll have your fucking badge for this. Where is the cunt?”