Page 321 of Small Town Firsts

Worry like I've never felt before shoots through me, but I squeeze it into submission long enough to block his number and dial hers.

My concern surges with every ring. Before I can think it through, I'm shoving my feet into a pair of shoes and heading for the door.

I won't let that piece of shit hurt her again. I have this overwhelming need to protect her, and I will—at all costs—even if that means kidnapping her ass and bringing her here where I can keep an eye on her at all times.

I'm about to hang up and dial her again when she answers. "Hey."

"Emmalyn," I breathe her name as relief flows through me. "You're good? You're okay?"

"Um. Yes. Are you? Not to be rude, but you sound a little..." She trails off, but I know exactly what she's thinking. I sound crazed.

"I am now." I toe my shoes back off and sink down onto my couch, my entire body melting into the cushions as the sound of her breathing through the line soothes me.

"You're kind of freaking me out, Sterling. What's going on?"

"Fuck. Nothing. Sorry."

"Obviously it's something. Please talk to me."

Sighing, I pinch the bridge of my nose and drop my head onto the back of the couch. "I-I'm overreacting. That's all."

"But over what?" Frustration drips from her every word.

"I... Rob called."

Her sharp intake of breath somehow robs me of my air as well. "What...what did he want?"

"He's...how did I ever call him a friend?"

Emmalyn sighs sadly. "He's a skilled liar. A master manipulator. Don't beat yourself up about it."

"How can I not, baby? Just one person in your corner could've changed everything."

"You're here now," she whispers.

"I am." I nod even though she can't see me. "I am, and I'm not going anywhere."

"Thanks for calling me. For checking on me. For caring."

"I need to ask a favor before we hang up, okay?"

"Sure, Sterling. What?"

"I want you to promise me you won't leave your dorm tonight. Lock the door, stay in. Have a girls’ night. Can you do that?"

"Freaking me out again."

"I know, baby. I'm not trying to, but will you do that? For me, please?"

"Okay."

"Promise?"

"Yeah, Sterling. I promise."

CHAPTER 32

EMMY

---