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For the past two days, I’ve felt like a hollow version of myself. When I replay what happened with Robert, it still seems like a nightmare. Because of his threats, my paranoia has been in overdrive. I’m waiting for him to retaliate because he’s always been a man of his word and doesn’t like not getting his way.
Once I’m inside my cottage, I release a deep breath, thankful nothing happened on my drive home. I hate how much power Robert’s words have over me and knowing what he’s capable of doing to me. Undoubtedly, he’s planning something. He won’t go down willingly.
I take a quick shower, then blow-dry my hair and put on some light makeup. My eyes are swollen from crying, and when I look in the mirror, I barely recognize the reflection. No man should ever make a woman feel so broken, and I hate that I’ve allowed him to.
Tyler said to come over around seven, so I try to keep my mind busy and tidy up in the meantime. My mind wanders as I think back to Monday and how I should’ve canceled dinner after I found that receipt. After everything, I should’ve predicted he’d have a bad reaction, so why did I stupidly put myself in that situation? Everleigh always joked that Robert seemed a little off, but now I wonder if she wasn’t kidding.
I put a load of clothes in the washer, then fold the ones I left in the dryer yesterday. Once there’s nothing else for me to do around the house, I leave. Arriving a little early will give Tyler and me the opportunity to have some privacy before Everleigh comes home.
My mouth goes dry when I see a black Suburban in my rearview mirror speeding around the cars behind me. Immediately, I press on the gas, trying to lose them.
“Fuck,” I whisper under my breath when the light turns red. My heart rate quickens as I grab the steering wheel with white knuckles. The SUV stops next to me, and I keep my face forward until my curiosity gets the best of me. Looking over, I make eye contact with a woman who has fire red hair and a vehicle full of kids. I let out a relieved laugh because my fear created a totally different scenario.
During lunch yesterday, two dozen pink and yellow roses were delivered to the shop in a crystal vase. Even before reading the card, I knew they were from Robert. Anytime we have a fight, he sends flowers and gifts. It’s his way of showing or rather buying my love, and I used to fall for it too. I’d accept his apologies and excuses. Not anymore.
As soon as my father left to grab food, I opened the note. It simply stated the wedding would happen whether I liked it or not. Immediately, I grabbed the expensive vase and flowers, stormed outside, then threw them in the dumpster. Though I hated trashing something so pretty, what they initially represented made me sick to my stomach. The pungent smell of them stayed in my nose until I got home. It didn’t take long for Robert to text me, asking why I got rid of them.
I should block his number, but it wouldn’t stop him from finding ways to torment me.
I demanded he stop fucking watching me and leave me alone. The wedding isn’t happening, and I won’t change my mind. So, naturally, after yesterday’s incident, my senses are in overdrive.
The light turns green, and I suck in a deep breath, shaking my head at myself. When I arrive at Everleigh’s, I grow more anxious. I’m already on edge, but knowing I’ll spill everything to Tyler makes it worse. Hopefully, wine joins this conversation because I need something to help take off the edge. I get out of the car, check the street for anything out of the ordinary, then walk up the sidewalk.
Tyler opens the door wearing a sweet grin.
“Right on time,” he kindly says, but I know I’m early. Once inside, I smell the hearty aroma of the spices. I sit at the bar as Tyler hurries to the stove.
“It’s almost ready,” he says, looking over his shoulder at me. When he moves around, I can’t help but notice how his shirt hugs his muscles just perfectly.
“What’d you cook?” I ask.
“Shrimp and grits.”
“It’s my favorite. You remembered?” I ask, surprised.
He chuckles, and the sound is inviting and warm. “I actually asked your dad.”
“Great. He’s really gonna think something’s going on between us, especially after lunch today.” I sigh, not sure how to bring up the conversation with my dad.
“Yeah, he made sure to remind me that you were engaged. Talk about awkward.” Tyler stirs the shrimp and sauce.
“How mortifying. I’m so sorry.” I cover my face.
“It’s not a big deal.”
