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My phone vibrated beside me, and I saw Robin’s name flash across the screen.

“You’re up early.” I laughed when I answered. Robin was a night owl. She hated early starts.

She groaned. “Tay’s brother is here. You know exactly how he is in the morning.”

“Ah, and how is my favourite little man, Jack?”

“Loud and lively.” She scoffed.

“Why don’t you and Tay bring him over today? I could use some girl time.” That was true. I genuinely could. I missed them.

“Won’t your husband mind?”

“I don’t know. I think he’s out today anyway.” I danced happily on the inside at the thought of not having to see him all day. “Besides, it’s my house too.”

“Valid point! We’ll be over at lunch?” The idea of getting together must have woken her up because she sounded more excited than she did a minute ago.

“Perfect, I’ll see you then.” I smiled, hanging up the phone.

I relaxed back on the grass, enjoying the peace and the rippling lake.

“Mornin’, A.” Emmet beamed as he sat down beside me.

“Morning.” I smiled, until I remembered he was the one who let me go last night, and that wouldn’t have gone without repercussions. “I’m sorry.”

“Don’t apologise, A.” He responded, his grin a breath of fresh air. “It ain’t your fault, you just want to live a little, and hey, I don’t blame ya.”

“But didn’t Lorenzo have something to say about it?” I asked.

He gently nudged his arm into mine. “Lorenzo has been my mate for a long time, and I wouldn’t change that, but at the end of the day, he’s also my boss. I let him down.”

“I should have stayed.” I sighed.

“Nah, Red told me what was so important, so I’m glad you didn’t .”

“Why is he such a dick though?”

“You’ve grown up with men like Lorenzo, A. You know how much pressure they have on them.” He responded, his lips twisting into a smile at my previous question.

“So, you agree? He’s a dick?” I laughed.

He jumped to his feet. “I have to meet him and the guys. Please stay home today,” he pleaded, clasping his hands together as if begging me to listen.

“You have my word. Besides, the girls are coming over.”

“Well, have fun then.” He held up his hand in a wave before retreating towards the house.

Why couldn’t Lorenzo be as nice and easygoing as them?

As I sat outsideby the lake with Robin, Tay, and Jack, I finally felt as though I was back at home. Even though this was anything but a home right now. It was a damn prison.

“Ana, why is this house so big?” Jack asked as he stared back at it. “Does one man need such a huge house?”

“No, others live here, too.” I ruffled his hair as he looked up at me.

“Cool. What are they like?” he pried.

“Everyone is friendly.” I crouched down to his level. “Although, one is a little mean.”