Brennan is the grumpiest man on the planet, I swear. Even now, he sounds dour as fuck. It’s all a ruse, mind. Never seen love like when he stares at my sister.
“I’m fine. I have to go. Someone’s here. But I did just drop some coffee beans and scream.”
I can feel their disbelief down the line.
That’s the trouble with being a rational person. You do one irrational thing and nobody believes you.
I huff. “Going.”
And end the call.
Maxim: We’ll talk later
Me: You the boss of me now?
Maxim: Victoria
Me: Maxim
Maxim: Remember that spanking we talked about…
I refuse to squirm.
Me: I’m fine
Maxim: You freaked out, didn’t you? I knew you were too calm
Me: Look, I have a guest
Maxim: I know. Wynter Kinnock
Me: Fucking guards knowing everything. Do they know when I get my period?!
Maxim: I’m not sure they’re that dedicated
Me: That’s a relief
Maxim: Call me when you’re alone.
Me: I’m fine
Maxim: Frantic. Insecure. Neurotic. Emotional?
Me: Maybe. But I’m dealing with it
Maxim: You don’t deal with it alone. Not when I’m here
Me: You’re not here.
Maxim: Want me to come tonight?
I shutter my eyes.
Think about how when he wrapped me up in his arms, there was no room for thinking…
My throat bobs.
I want to be strong.
