Page 258 of Sinfully Savage Mafia

Jimmy’s lips curl into a rueful smile. “Take care of yourself.”

“Thanks, you too.” My voice is strong, but on the inside, it’s choked with sadness and dejection. And there isn’t much I can do other than to walk out of the restaurant with my head held high. I give a little wave and scurry outside before the tears stinging my eyes slip down my cheeks.

I clench my fists as I stare up at the sky.

No little stars twinkle down on me. It’s just a thick haze, kind of like the one I feel hangs over me day in and day out. So obscure, you can’t see a single glimmer of light in the distance.

I want to scream and yell and cry. I want to punch something, break something…anything! For the past six months, I’ve tried to battle against the negativity surrounding me on a daily basis. I’ve tried to keep my glass half full with the knowledge that this, too, shall pass.

When? When will it pass exactly? Well, that’s the freaking magic question.

I’ve worked hard, kept my head down, and tried to figure out how to put the jagged pieces of my life back together. With barely any prospects for a real job, and diminishing opportunities at my current one, I’m grasping at the frayed ends of my sanity.

And Frankie?—

My phone buzzes. It’s the one luxury I allow myself, and it’s barely functional as a smart device. But my brother’s track record requires me to be reachable at all times.

Speaking of the devil, it’s a text from him that lights up my screen.

Where are you?

I let out a sigh and stab a response.

He replies almost instantly.

Go home now. No pit stops.

I roll my eyes.

Damn, you mean I can’t go out clubbing?

I’m serious, Chell.

I chew my bottom lip as I walk toward the subway station, fumbling in my handbag for my pepper spray, and tucking it into my sleeve as I bring my hand out. What the hell has Frankie so spooked?

I actually have a date. Where are you?

Don’t worry about me. And who the fuck are you hanging out with?

A smile tugs at my lips. Just a guy I met at work. I won’t be late.

There’s a long pause before he responds.

I don’t like you being by yourself with a strange guy.

I roll my eyes.Well, lucky for me, you’re not my keeper.

Just lock up tight when you get home. Make sure nobody follows you. I’ll see you soon.

If that doesn’t sound comforting…

And make sure the jackass keeps his hands to himself.

I snicker and lean against the wall next to the front door. I look left and right, but my mystery date is nowhere to be seen. A few minutes later, I frown at my watch. Still no sign of him.

It was silly to think that maybe I could experience a little sliver of normalcy. A hot guy, asking me out…that’s just not my life.

Not my reality.

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