“Okay then. Thank you.”
I let out a sigh of relief. “Here, I’ll help you pack your things.”
She gives a small, tired nod, and I lift her into my arms, careful not to jostle her.
Carrying her to the bedroom, I set her gently at the edge of the bed. She instructs me on what items to pack, and I move through her wardrobe, drawers, and ensuite with deliberate care, making sure I have everything she needs.
Twenty minutes later, her things are neatly packed, her backpack draped over my shoulders, and her luggage zipped and ready to roll out. Holding my free hand out for her, she pauses, staring at it for a brief moment before gazing up at me.
“Thank you, Jason, for coming over to check on me. I’ll never forget the moment you
saved me. For as long as I live.” Her swollen lips strain to form a smile, but she manages it, and even in her condition, it’s as beautiful as ever.
I nod and offer her a warm, heartfelt smile, knowing no further words are needed. She already knows that I’ll do anything for her. Tonight was only the beginning. I help her to her feet, keeping my hand firmly in hers as I guide her carefully out of the apartment and into my car.
Seeing Mila tonight, bruised and broken up, was the hardest thing I’ve ever had to witness. It was a sight I will never forget and never want to see ever again.
If Dean knows what’s good for him, he’ll take my warning seriously and stay as far away from her as possible. Because if he even tries to worm his way back into her life, I’ll be coming for him. And this time, I won’t be holding back.
CHAPTER 24
Mila
It’s been three days since I moved in temporarily with the Hawkins’, and three days since I last heard from Dean. The day after the hospital visit, Jason took me straight to the police station to file an application for a restraining order. I provided a medical report from the hospital, photos of my injuries, and statements from both Jason and me as evidence. Now we’re just waiting for the court to issue a temporary order until the day of the full hearing.
The whole experience has been draining and emotional, and I haven’t slept or eaten well in days. My mind keeps replaying that night on a loop, and no matter how hard I try, I can’t escape it. If I didn’t have Jason and Jake, I honestly don’t know what I’d do.
They’ve been a constant source of safety and comfort. And even though, at times, I feel like a complete burden, they’ve never once made me feel like I am.
Jason’s been working from home this week, and I know it’s so he can keep an eye on me, making sure I’m still eating, breathing—surviving. He’s been an absolute godsend: a reliable friend and the perfect companion. He fills the silence with endless banter, but above all, he encourages me to talk, to drag out the thoughts that sometimes poison my mind, and he just sits there and listens, no matter how ridiculous I sound.
I’ve also decided to take a week off uni, just to give myself time to recover and process everything that’s happened. Jason insisted I take more time, but I don’t want to fall too far behindon my studies, especially with only a few months left until I finish my master’s. Besides, I’ll have Sofia to keep me company around campus.
She’s due to arrive any minute now, because for the first time since Dean physically hurt me, I’m finally ready to tell my best friend everything.
The doorbell chimes through the house, letting me know Sofia’s here. I stand and make my way to the door, deliberately avoiding the hallway mirror like I’ve been doing these past few days. I haven’t been able to face my own reflection sincethatnight. Seeing myself only brings the painful memories rushing back. Until the bruises fade, it’s easier not to look at all.
The moment I open the door, Sofia’s wide smile immediately vanishes, replaced by a sharp intake of breath.
“Oh my God, Mila. What the hell happened to you?”
Her eyes sweep over the bruises and scratch marks marring my neck and face. Her brows knit together in concern, and I can practically see the questions forming in her mind as she takes in the sight of me.
“Come inside and I’ll fill you in on everything.” I move aside to let her in, and she slowly brushes past me.
I feel her gaze on me as I lead her to the living room, gesturing for her to take a seat.
She hesitates at first, then slowly makes her way to the couch.
“Would you like something to drink?”
She shakes her head, as she places her purse on the coffee table. “I’m fine. Are you going to tell me what the hell is going on?”
I walk towards her, sliding onto the couch beside her and taking a deep breath.
Straightening my spine, I turn to face her, steeling myself to deliver the news I know will shatter her heart.
“Dean and I broke up.”
