Page 47 of Play Dirty

I reach out my hand and wait, hoping he’ll take it.

I smile to myself as he wraps his fingers around mine.

Then, before I know it, I’m fast asleep.

* * *

“Where the helldo you think you’re going?”

I whirl, hand on my chest, staring at Damien.

“You think you’re going to take my child and leave?” he demands, advancing up the stairs, his eyes black as coal.

“I don’t…” My heart thumps wildly.

How did he find out?

The only person who knows I’m pregnant is Chey, and I know she didn’t tell him.

“Answer me—where the fuck do you think you’re going?” He gets to the top of the stairs where I’m standing with my suitcase, frozen in place.

He’s not supposed to be home yet.

We were so careful to try and leave before he got back.

“There’s a casting in L.A.,” I whisper, my voice shaky.

“Why didn’t you tell me about it?” He grabs me by the arm, shaking me.

“I f-forgot.” Fear washes over me.

The look in his eyes is frightening. No, it’s beyond frightening—it’s terrifying. I’ve never seen him so angry, and I don’t know what to do. His temper has been getting worse lately—one of many reasons I’m finally ready to leave.

That and the baby I’m carrying.

A baby I cannot bring into the world.

Not when its father is a monster.

Abusing me is one thing, but I could never forgive myself if he hurt a child. My child.

“Let her go.” Chey comes to stand beside me, hands on her hips as she glares at him.

Damien snorts. “Don’t tell me what to do in my own house. Take your snooty little ass and get the fuck out.”

“It’s not your house,” she replies. “In case you’ve forgotten. It’s Stevie’s house.”

She’s right, but I can’t seem to find my voice or defend myself.

Why can’t I say anything?

When did I become so afraid of him?

“You and me, we need to talk.” He points to the bedroom. “Move. Now.”

Somehow, I dig deep, scrounge up a modicum of courage, and manage to shake my head even though I’m so scared I feel like I might puke. “N-no. We’re leaving.”

He laughs, but there’s no mirth to the sound. “That’s cute. You really think I’m going to let you take my baby and just walk out that door?”

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