Page 98 of Play Dirty

“I don’t care what Brenna thinks or wants or does,” I say firmly. “She doesn’t get to dictate my life going forward.”

“Of course not, but she does have quite a bit of power when it comes to the kids.”

“Babe, I have an appointment with one of the best lawyers in the entire country tonight—we’re going to get through this. I don’t want you to worry.”

“But I have to worry,” she says softly. “And you should too. This could get ugly.”

“I have confidence that Madeline is going to nip it in the bud.”

“I want what’s best for you,” she says slowly. “I’ve been thinking about it a lot. That’s why I think we need to… take a break.”

“A break?” I’m standing in front of my SUV, frozen in place. “What are you talking about, Stevie?”

“I just told you. A break. So you can focus on your children without me causing trouble for you.”

“Madeline is going to get us through this.”

“I’m not worried about the temporary restraining order. I’m worried about the custody hearing. And honestly, I’m worried about the kids. Having me in their lives is just going to be problematic. We both know my reputation precedes me.”

“What are you talking about? There’s nothing in your past that scares me. I’ve told you that.”

“You may not be worried about it, but what about the kids? When they go to school and some little shit asks Martin about his psycho stepmom? Or when I take Emma to some school function and the other moms talk about me behind my back, how I’m the one who’s been engaged five times or whatever… it’s going to happen. And Emma will hear it.”

“Where is this coming from?” I ask in frustration. “We’ve talked about this and?—”

“But we haven’t. We’ve talked about taking things slow, figuring out what we want, and trying out living together. We never talked about how my past could impact your kids’ futures.”

“I don’t think it will.”

“But you don’t know. And also, let’s be honest—you’ve always said you wanted four or five kids. I can’t give them to you.”

“I never said that!” I protest.

“You did. When we first met. Four or five was always your plan. I don’t want you to deviate from that because you got involved with a woman who can’t have kids.”

“Stevie, can we please slow down and talk about this in person? How about I come over before I go to Madeline’s?”

“I’m sorry,” she whispers. “That would just make this harder.”

“Are you breaking things off?” I demand.

“I am. I’m sorry, Marty. Please, trust me that this is better for both of us. My mental health can’t take anymore drama, and you can’t risk the custody hearing going wrong. Please—do this for me.”

Before I can say another word, she disconnects.

When I try to call back, it goes right to voicemail.

I wait a few minutes and call again.

And a message comes up saying the number is unavailable.

She blocked me.

And I have no fucking idea what to do about any of it.

Chapter32

Stevie

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