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The woman’s laughter echoes behind me, mocking and infuriating. “Run along now, lovebirds.”
Ignoring her taunts, I focus on Eric’s calming presence, the tension slowly easing from my shoulders. Scarlett hovers nearby. Eric’s voice is soft as he addresses the woman, a hint of steel underlying his words. “That’s enough. It’s over.”
With one last glare, the woman walks away, her figure disappearing into the crowd.
“You okay?” Eric’s gaze is full of concern as he meets my eyes, his fingers gentle on my shoulder.
I manage a shaky nod, gratitude flooding my chest. “Thank you, Eric.”
He grins—a comforting and understanding smile that says more than words ever could. “Let’s not let her mess up the evening, okay?”
“I think I’m gonna call it a night,” I say, the fatigue of the day sinking in. “Work tomorrow.”
Scarlett adds, “Yeah, I’d love to head home, too.”
The three of us stroll to her car, and she hands me the car keys before sliding into the passenger seat.
As I glance at Eric, I can’t help but feel grateful. “Thanks for being there. It could’ve gone downhill fast if you hadn’t stepped in.”
He leans casually against the car, his expression relaxed. “That woman is one of Zack’s exes.”
I raise an eyebrow, understanding immediately. “Well, that explains a lot.”
Just as I’m about to get into the driver’s seat, Eric catches my attention by gently taking my hand. His touch is warm, his eyes sincere.
“Will you call me soon?” he asks, his tone soft.
A smile tugs at my lips. “Sure thing.”
With a nod and another reassuring smile, I finally settle into the car. Eric closes the door behind me, and I start the engine. As I drive away, I can see Eric in my rearview mirror, and I can’t shake the flutter in my chest.
CHAPTERTHIRTEEN
I sitat Scarlett’s kitchen table the next morning. She’s still in her bedroom, snoozing away, but for the life of me, I couldn’t fall back asleep when I woke up this morning. I never fight with people, but I also won’t stand to see my best friend bullied by some random bitch out of jealousy over Zack.
I scroll through my cell phone while resting my chin on the palm of my hand, and photos from last night’s party on Scarlett’s stories pop up. Of course, I’m not in any since I decided to leave the house only to sit on the dock. I giggle when I see a photo of her sticking her tongue out at the camera.
A notification pops up on my phone, and it’s a message from my mom.
Mom
Call me right now.
My heart pounds and I quickly dial her number.
“Hey, what’s up?” I ask, feeling worried.
She sounds like she’s been crying when she answers, her voice all scratchy. “He’s dying, baby.”
I tear up. “I’m on my way,” I promise before hanging up. I rush up the stairs and barge into Scar’s room without knocking.
“Hey, what’s going on?” she asks, surprised.
Tears stream down my face. “He’s leaving me,” I say, my voice breaking.
She gets up from her bed and walks over to me, giving me a tight hug to comfort me. “Put your shoes on. Let’s go to the hospital.”
Nodding, I walk downstairs to the living room, put on my shoes, and head out the door.
