Page 107 of Home Game

“Spill what?”

“What’s eating you.”

I worked to keep my face clear of expression. “I’m good.”

“You can’t bullshit a bullshitter. Is it Bianca?”

Bianca who told me I had overstayed my welcome every chance she got.

Bianca, who had invited a monster into Ryan’s home.

I remained silent. If I told her what Bianca was doing, and they talked to Bianca, she might tell them that Terrance had come upstairs. “No.”

Krista’s eyes narrowed on my face. “Why don’t I believe you?”

“I’m good.”

She sighed. “You know you can trust me, right?”

“I trust you.”

“But you’re not going to tell me what’s going on?”

I swallowed hard. I knew I was hurting both Krista and Ryan by not sharing with them, but I also knew they could never deal with Terrance and this was the only way I could think of protecting them.

I needed to leave. I wouldn’t survive on the street without money, but I couldn’t risk ruining their lives. “I’m good, Krista.”

“You’re lying.”

I remained silent, but tears filled my eyes. She reached across the table. “Sweetheart, let me help you. Is it Ryan? Is he being a dick?”

I snorted a wet laugh. “No, he’s nice.”

She squeezed my hand. “Because if he is I can handle him.”

“He’s not.”

“You say the word on how I can help you, and I will move fucking mountains.”

“You’re one of the nicest people I’ve ever met. I won’t ever forget you.”

“You don’t have to. You’re not going anywhere.”

“I know,” I lied.

She gave me a worried look, but allowed us to drop the conversation.

CHAPTER 23

RYAN

I stood watchingthe bartender set up his bar in the corner of the living room. In the kitchen, a chef worked on preparing food for the night, while servers unpacked and polished glasses.

I used to fill an entire house with party guests with one text. Now, I wondered if there would be four of us, outnumbered by the staff. I regretted making this party so official. I should have tried for a more organic party. That way it wouldn’t look like I was trying so hard.

The door buzzed, and a guy appeared at the door with a two-tiered birthday cake. I cracked open a beer and watched as he helped the servers set it up on the table. Pink and purple delicate butterflies and an edible bow decorated the cake. On the front, in plated chocolate, was Zoey’s name.

She was my reason. Zoey, who had never had her birthday celebrated, deserved to have the red carpet rolled out for her.

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