AllFreeNovel
Share Us
We’re in the middle of watching a movie when someone knocks on the door. The two of us share a confused look, knowing we’re not expecting anyone, but it wouldn’t be the first time my friends randomly show up. I get off the couch and go to see who it is. However, as soon as I open it, there’s no one there. Instead, an orange envelope lies on top of the doormat.
I look around but don’t see anyone before I pick it up. I hook a finger in the flap and pull out what’s inside. As soon as I see it, my heart drops. Pictures of Delaney at school. Pictures of Delaney with Savannah at the diner. Pictures of Delaney with me. At the bottom of the pile is a note.
Such a beauty. I’d hate for her to see the same fate as Mr. Montgomery.
I THROW THE DOORS open, storming through the office and over to Cal. The second I’m close enough, I throw the pictures at his feet.
“You think this is fucking funny?” I spit. “You stay the fuck away from her, or, I swear to God, the only one meeting the same fate as that child-beating shithead will be you.”
Cal laughs like there’s something hilarious about him threatening my girlfriend. “I’ve always admired the fire in you, Vaughn, but your choices have needed some work. Like your decision to not show up to last week’s fight.”
“There are plenty of other guys who can fill my place.”
“Perhaps, but none of them are indebted to me.”
I shake my head. “I don’t care. I’m not taking another life because of this shit. I’m out.”
He chuckles humorlessly. “You’ll fight, or poor Delaney will pay the price.”
Fury boils inside of me and I lunge at him, but his goons move faster. They grab me by my arms, holding me back. Cal pulls a gun from his waistband and cocks it as he points it at my forehead.
“I said I’m out!” I yell.
“You’ll be out when I say you’re out, you piece of shit. You think you can just get away with deciding when you do and don’t want to be in this?” He picks up one of the pictures from the floor, rubbing his finger over Delaney’s face. “If you miss so much as one more fight, I’ll put a bullet in her fucking head and make you watch.”
He gives me a look, daring me to say another word, but I won’t. I don’t doubt for a second that he would make true on his word. With a nod at his guys, he walks out of the room and they drop me—my knees going weak as I collapse to the floor.
Fuck.
18
Delaney
Never in a million years did I ever think my father would look at me the same way he does Tessa. His obvious distain for her was always something that made me uncomfortable. However, the minute I found out he tried to pay Knox to stay away from me, I understood exactly why Tess hates him as much as she does.
It’s one thing to want what’s best for your kids, but what he did is despicable. He didn’t even give Knox a chance—judging him on his home life without so much as a conversation. I don’t know what was said after I walked out and left them alone the other day, but whatever it was definitely struck a nerve.
Tessa, of course, has been loving this. For once, she isn’t the sole focus of his controlling tendencies. We stick together and stand our ground. If he wants Knox out of my life, he’s going to have to do a lot more than bribe him.
I WALK UP TO the familiar house and knock on the door. Thankfully, Knox had something to do tonight, which gives me the perfect opportunity to get what I’m looking for. Zayn opens the door, a confused look gracing his face when he sees me.
“Delaney?”
“Hey,” I greet him as I push my way inside.
He rubs the back of his neck. “Knox isn’t here.”
“I know. I came here for you.”
His eyes widen. “Uh, Bambi, you’re gorgeous and all but—”
I shake my head and cut him off. “Oh my God, no. Not what I meant.” He relaxes in an instant and I chuckle. “Also, if he heard you calling me that nickname, he might kill you.”
“You’re probably right. So, what’d you need?”
“Knox’s birthday is coming up.”
He smirks. “How’d you figure that one out? I know damn well he didn’t tell you.”
