Page 161 of Stay With Me

But then I look down at my wrist and the charm bracelet he gifted me for Christmas that was definitely more than what you’d gift someone you didn’t want living in your house. When I first opened it, I was in shock that he’d do something so sentimental and sweet. Though I should’ve figured because this is Tripp we’re talking about here. He’s nothing if not extra thoughtful. It really outdid the gifts I got him, but he didn’t make me feel guilty about it. I wear it every day and can’t wait to add the baby’s first initial once I settle on a name. My next ultrasound is in a few days, and then I’ll get to find out the gender.

I’ve considered looking for a new place since I’ve been able to save money by not paying rent, but I’d need enough for a security deposit and to actually furnish said apartment, plus all the baby stuff. Only my bed and dresser survived Travis’s wrath when he trashed it.

As I scroll through my social media, my phone rings with an unfamiliar phone number. Curiosity gets the better of me, and I pick up.

“Hello?”

An operator asking if I’ll accept a call from the Sugarland Creek jail is the last thing I expect.

My first thought is one of the Hollis boys got arrested, and when they couldn’t get ahold of Tripp, they’d called me. But then a voice I never expected echoes in my ear.

Travis.

No fucking way.

“Maggie, are you there?”

“Depends. Whaddya want?”

“I needed to hear your voice and make sure you’re okay. I’ve been worried sick about you.”

“Worried before or after you broke into my place and trashed it?”

“Baby, no. I didn’t do that. Someone’s after me. You gotta believe me.”

I scowl because of course he’d lie.

“Uh-huh, and who exactly is that?”

“His name is Emilio, and he’s dangerous, baby. I owe him some money, and he went after you to send me a message.”

“Stop with thebaby. What the hell are you talkin’ about? Why would he come after me?”

“Because he followed me around for a couple of months and realized you’re someone important to me, which is why I’m tellin’ you to be careful. Now that you’re on his radar, you’re a target.”

So he’s using me to get to Travis? Or was it to get him out of hiding?

And wait?—

“When did you get arrested?”

Last I knew, he was still on the town’s wanted list.

“Last night, but they just now allowed me to make a call.”

“And you’re responsible for the robberies?”

“I was tryin’ to get the money to pay him back so he wouldn’t come after you. I was protectin’ you.”

I scoff in disbelief.

“How much, Travis? How much do you owe him?”

This wouldn’t be the first time Travis got himself into money trouble. He likes to place bets he has no business placing.

“It ain’t that much.”

I roll my eyes, growing frustrated. “That’s not what I asked.”