Page 68 of The Phyre that Burns

“Ginae, don’t let this take you back to that dark place.”

“I won’t, but I’m pissed. He was so hell bent on believing I killed our baby that he wouldn’t let me explain what really happened.”

“Does that sound familiar?”

“No.”

“It should.”

“I don’t see why.”

“Maybe you blocked it out, but let me remind you. When Phyre tried to explain his situation, you threatened to call the police, forcing him to leave. Had you listened, your happily ever after could’ve started thirteen years ago.”

I smacked my lips. “It’s not the same.”

“I disagree, and once you have time to think about it, you’ll know I’m right.”

“I doubt it. Can I go back to sleep now?”

“Where are you? The condo?”

“No. I got a room for a few days at Black Elm Suites.”

“Why would you waste money? Phyre may be upset, but I’m sure he wouldn’t mind you staying at the condo.”

“He’s probably not upset anymore. After I put my luggage in the car, I went back inside and told him I had a miscarriage. While my words sank in, I hopped in my rideshare and blocked his number.”

“Nooo!”

“I sure as hell did because how you gon’ accuse me of doing something that I didn’t do, not give me a chance to explain, and kick me out. Nigga, fuck you. I’d rather not be at the condo because I don’t want him to have access to me. I’m trying to decide what I’m going to tell the agency when I quit. I have a stellar reputation with them, and I don’t want to ruin it for future assignments.”

“You’re leaving?”

“Why do you sound surprised?”

“Aren’t you gonna try to talk to him?”

“Nope. I think I’ve said all I need to say.”

“Seriously, sis. I think you should. Y’all are meant to be, and I don’t want you to lose your soulmate over a misunderstanding.”

“Devyn, please. It wasn’t a misunderstanding. He’s just an asshole, and I’m glad I saw it before I was in too deep. Can we talk about this tomorrow? Right now, I want to shut my brain off and go to sleep.”

“Fine. You probably shouldn’t make any rash decisions right now. Get some rest, and I’ll call you in the morning. I’m sorry you’re going through this, but I’m here if you need me. No matter what time.”

“Thank you. Love you.”

“Love you more. Hey, what’s your room number? I’m gonna have breakfast delivered so you won’t have to leave your room.”

“That’s sweet. I’m in room 212.”

“Okay. Bye.”

“Bye.”

We ended the call, and I closed my eyes as I inhaled and exhaled deeply. By tomorrow evening, I had to decide if I wanted to continue this assignment. If I chose to stay, I’d have to be in Phyre’s presence daily. Right now, taking my ass home sounded better, but maybe I’d feel better in the morning.

Eventually, I fell into a fitful sleep, tossing and turning all night, and waking up every hour or so. When I finally fell into a deep sleep, I dreamed about my future without Phyre and woke up crying.