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With a wink, he wheels toward the kitchen. I snigger when I realize he’s talking about Violet. It’s kind of cute he seems to be sweet on her.

“So sorry,” I say as I enter the library. “It was a crazy night and…”

I trail off when I realize she isn’t waiting for me. Weird. This whole day is turning out to be strange. Maybe I’m still sleeping.

Confused, I turn on my heel and make my way to the dining room where Violet is plating some food up for Wyatt. Funky meows pitifully from the floor beside Wyatt’s wheelchair, watching as the old man shakily picks up a piece of bacon.

“Where’s Willa?” I ask, stomach grumbling with hunger. “Callum’s here and we have an appointment this morning. I figured she’d be waiting on me.”

Violet hands me a piece of bacon. “Oh, those two have been at it for hours, sweetie. I don’t think she’s coming. Why don’t you have a seat and let me get you a plate?”

And ruin Wyatt’s date?

Smirking at him, I shake my head. “I’ll run over there and see her.”

“If you’re going to leave, at least bring some muffins with you. Willa loves my chocolate chip pumpkin muffins.”

Violet disappears into the kitchen and returns a minute later with a container filled with the treats. She offers me another strip of bacon, which I gladly take, and then I’m off to see my friend.

Outside, my car is no longer there. Jude mentioned something last night between our lovemaking that he’d have my vehicle taken somewhere to be dealt with. I’m shocked that he’s already had it towed this morning. Not having to stress over it is a huge relief.

I could get used to this sweet, caring boyfriend stuff.

Though neither of us has said it, it’s definitely an unspoken thing. We like each other and enjoy doing nice things for each other. Plus, we’re sleeping together both literally and figuratively. Definitely boyfriends.

I scan the property and exhale in relief when I don’t see any creeps—specifically Sean—lurking around. Still, I can’t help but run as fast as my short legs will carry me all the way to Callum and Willa’s. I’m out of breath by the time I reach their porch, but at least I’m in one piece. I hate how Sean always makes me feel on edge.

Banging on the front door, I cast a quick glance over my shoulder to make sure no one is sneaking up on me. A bird squawks at me from a nearby tree, but it’s otherwise uneventful.

Willa cracks open the door and winces when she sees me as though I’m the last possible person she wants to see. Ouch. What did I do to upset her?

“Hey,” I start, confusion making my voice wobble. “Everything okay?”

She swallows hard and tears well in her eyes. I reach for her, but she jerks back. Or, better yet,someonejerks her back. As the door widens, I recognize the burly figure who has a grip on her hair.

No.

“Sean?” I croak out, unable to believe my eyes. “W-What are you doing here?”

A tear rolls down Willa’s cheek, her eyes shining with an unspoken apology. I meet her gaze with a firm one of my own.This is not your fault. This is my mess.

“Came to see you obviously. You made this a hell of a lot easier by showing up. I thought I might have to go over there and make a huge scene, but no, my little toy came through,” Sean says in a jolly tune that makes my skin crawl. “And look, you came bearing gifts.”

He reaches forward, snatching the container of muffins out of my hand. I don’t know what to do. Do I turn around and run to get Callum and Jude? Run next door to get help there instead? Try to beat Sean up to save Willa? All options might lead to him hurting her.

“Let her go,” I say calmly. “You came to talk to me, so talk. Willa doesn’t need to be a part of this.”

Sean laughs, cold and harsh. “Oh, she’s a part of this shit all right. She’s fucking a Park. That was her first mistake.”

Oh God. This is escalating.

I can’t leave her, though.

“Sean, just tell me what you want. Please.”

He studies me through narrowed eyes. “I want you, obviously. I’ve always wanted you.”

Fear claws at my throat, but I know I have to be strong right now. I’ve handled Sean for two years. I can deal with him now. I just need for him to let Willa go and focus on me.