Page 108 of Freed By the Witchbone Knife

Me

You don’t need to feel guilty! I should have told you I was bringing Axel. I’m sorry for springing that on you.

Iris

No no, you have nothing to apologize for! I was just excited about us meeting up together and then when you showed up with him I got all in my feelings about it. So stupid. I’m really sorry.

Me

It’s really okay, I promise.

Me

Actually, there’s something I’d like to talk to you about.

I had no idea how to broach this subject.

Hi, Iris. My psycho ex might have threatened you. So I just want to make sure you’re being safe.

Hi, Iris. Remember that ex I mentioned? Yeah, he’s kind of a psycho. I’m worried he might try to hurt you. Be safe!

Hi, Iris. There’s this guy named Ambrose… He’s kind of a psycho. I’m worried he might try to hurt you.

Iris

How about we meet up? I’d love to talk in person. Maybe Wednesday after The Roost closes? 6PM?

I blew out a breath. That would make things a lot easier. The roost closed at six on weeknights so I could definitely make that work, since Wednesdays were my long days and I finished up around five.

“What is it?” Axel had finished his call with Deputy Holt and was watching me with concern.

“I texted Iris to make sure she’s okay. I told her I wanted to talk. She suggested meeting Wednesday night after closing.”

His expression darkened. “Don’t like the idea of you being out late with Blackthorn’s threats.”

“I’d rather talk to her in person. She needs to know about Ambrose.”

Axel sighed. “Fine. I’ll pick you up from The Roost at seven.”

Me

Wednesday sounds perfect. I could really use some girl time.

Iris

Perfect! Can’t wait.

I set my phone down and wrapped my arms around myself.

“Come here, lass.” Axel’s voice was softer now. He held out his hand.

I stood and went to him, letting him pull me against his chest. His arms came around me, solid and warm and safe. I could hear his heartbeat beneath my ear, steady despite everything that had just happened.

“We’ll get through this,” he murmured into my hair. “As soon as you break your curse, he won’t have any leverage.”

I wanted to believe him. Wanted to feel as confident as he sounded. But my body wouldn’t relax.

Later, I sat at the kitchen island watching Axel cook, my hands wrapped around a mug of chamomile tea. The sun had set, casting the cabin in shadow despite the warm glow of all the seasonal lights. Axel had insisted on making comfort food—his words, not mine—which apparently meant homemade mac and cheese with bacon and roasted vegetables.