Page 123 of Pretty Little Threats

“I am happy. Mr. Richardson is kind. Not so mean, likeeveryone says, if you ask me.” She grins. “But I’m sure you know that. You’re his wife, after all.”

I was.

But now?

I don’t know who I am or where I belong.

Alone once more, I’m faced with the truth. Dad lied.

Again.

After so many recent betrayals, I should be numb, but this lie cuts deep into my marrow and settles heavily on my soul. Dad made me believe Irene was in danger. Had I not already been spiraling with jealousy, I might’ve questioned what he said. I might’ve gone to see Irene before confronting Dare.

But I didn’t, and I can’t change the past. I hope Dare will be open to talking to me.

Rose

Hey. Can we talk?

I’m sorry. I never meant to hurt your sisters. I hope they’re okay.

I’d really love to discuss things.

A few days pass, and it’s like I’m frozen in time. Stuck trying to rewind and undo the damage.

Are you going to ignore me forever?

Dare, please. I’m so sorry.

Nothing. Not a word. I call once, but the sound of hisvoicemail recording punches through my chest, and I hang up without leaving a message.

Dad doesn’t call. Dad doesn’t text.

But maybe that’s for the best. I don’t know that I could talk to him without losing my shit. I can’t go to work at JD Miller & Co without seeing my dad and, honestly, I’m not sure how I’d react. I don’t trust myself to pretend like everything is okay. There’s no way I’ll be allowed at Vista Holdings. Futurum is operating until the funds I infuse run out, and then...it’s over.

There’s been no investor interest. No one wants to support my dream.

Without work, I have no purpose.

With nothing else to do, I retreat. Holing up in my home. I monitor Dare’s socials, but he never posts updates. I don’t know why I expected him to now. Is he somewhere with his sisters? Will he ever want to see me again?

What will happen with the marriage?

Or the knife that incriminates me?

A rough pounding sounds at my front door. I jump off the couch, tripping over the blanket I had cocooned myself in, and race for the door. Ripping it open, I brace myself for Dare’s anger, but it’s not him.

The spark of hope inside my chest dies.

My face falls.

That pit in my stomach sinks a little deeper.

Cassia’s eyebrows disappear beneath her cinnamon red bangs. “Well, hello to you too.”

Orion frowns at me, adjusting the strap of his satchel. “What’s wrong?”

They’re both so put together. Cassia’s wearing a cute sweater dress with tights and boots, and Orion’s in a button-down shirt and jeans...and I’m...still in pajamas.

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