Page 241 of Saving Her

I can’t help it. My rage grows and my helplessness along with it.

“Come here.” He grabs my wrist and tugs me into him, wrapping his arms around my back. “This will all be over soon. And your parents won’t even know they were a part of it.”

“I hope you’re right.”

Slowly, his confidence seeps into me, strengthening my resolve. When he releases me, I’m no longer clinging to anger.

“I need to take a shower. Come with me.”

“Not this time.” I slump onto the sofa. “I need to clear my head.”

“You sure?”

“Positive.” I want space. Even if only for a few minutes.

“Okay.” He reaches for the television remote on the coffee table and hands it to me. “I won’t be long. Find a movie to watch, and I’ll order dinner once I come back.”

I nod.

“You know I’m proud of you, right?” He gives a sad smile. “You’re taking this like a warrior.”

“It doesn’t feel that way. I’m so angry I could kill someone.”

He chuckles, soft and low, then leans in to place a quick kiss on my forehead. “Aren’t we all?” He retreats, heading toward the hall. “I’ll be back soon.”

I scoot farther back on the sofa and stare into space.

While he’s gone, the others return to the mansion to prepare for the party. Chatter echoes through the halls. The kids’ laughter carries from different rooms. Doors slam, and hinges squeak with the flurry of movement.

Then one by one, they leave while Luca and I eat Chinese out of cardboard boxes and pretend this might not be the worst night of my rescued life.

The only people left behind are us, the children, and the nanny, the sudden quiet of the once bustling house leaving me numb.

It doesn’t take long for anger to return. Then jealousy.

Everyone else is meeting my parents.

Mymother.

Myfather.

And I’m here, watching as the nanny herds Tobias and Stella down the hall to shower and dress for bed.

“I’m not sure if you want to hear this, but Torian sent me a text.” Luca tilts his cell screen my way from his position beside me on the sofa.

I’ve doubled the security on the house. If you go somewhere, take a tail with you.

“Why would we go somewhere?” I ask. “Do you plan on leaving?”

“Not at all.” He gives a subtle shake of his head, his expression turning sympathetic. “But it’s not too late if you want to see your parents.”

“No.” My answer is immediate.

I’m not ready.

Maybe soon. But not now.

“I don’t mean face-to-face.” He pockets his cell. “We could drive by the restaurant. You should be able to see them without leaving the car.”

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