Page 98 of The Truth of Our Secrets

I have to protect them. It’s different from protecting their feelings. I’m going to tell them the truth, but I can’t allow Peter to harass them.

It’s time for me to put them first.

Once we’re back at the apartment, I pull up the group chat between the three of us.

Me: Can you come over tonight?

I talked to Peter and I want to tell you and Madyson about it.

Angel: Sure

Baby Girl: Thank you

Angel: K

Me: See you later

It doesn’t take long, but it’s forever when the doorman finally buzzes. It’s so hard not to pull him in and inhale his scent. I’ve missed him. He soothes my ache, but I can’t do what I want. This is about them.

“Thanks for coming.” I hold the door wide and move aside so he can enter.

He nods, walking straight into the living room to sit in a club chair.

Madyson sits on the love seat, her eyes teary as she watches him fold his arms over his chest.

Fuck.

“What did dickface have to say?” Emmet says, getting straight to the point.

First, we tell Emmet about the gallery and his stony posture softens.

“He wants to hurt me through Madyson and possibly you. He wasn’t specific, but he said it’s my fault that bad things are going to happen to you. I’ve figured out a way to stop it.” They listen intently.

“I don’t see how you can prevent it.” Emmet narrows his eyes and his lips press into a thin line.

“Until the legal stuff is settled, it’s best if I keep my distance from both of you. He won’t hurt you if you’re not with me.” My gut eats itself. But it’s what I have to do to keep them safe.

“That’s bullshit.” Emmet throws his hands in the air.

“You’re giving him what he wants.” Madyson’s eyes are on her fingers, twisting her ring.

“He’s losing it. I can’t let him near either of you. If I tell him I’ve moved out, he’ll think he’s won and leave you alone.” My chest breaks wide open.

Emmet scowls and Madyson wipes her eyes. “But in case I’m wrong, Emmet, will you stay here with her?”

“You can’t bail on us when things get hard. That’s not how relationships work.” Emmet stands and paces the length of the living room.

“You haven’t been sleeping here,” I point out.

“But I’m not leaving. I’m figuring things out. Most of my things are still here. I’ve answered every text and come when you’ve asked. I need more than a few days to get over what you did. You could’ve asked me and found out the truth. But now you’rewalking away, not me.” Emmet’s tone is harsh, but his face shows all his pain.

“I’m not leaving you. I’m protecting you.” He’s stiff, but he doesn’t back away when I stand and grip his shoulders.

“You don’t need to protect me.” He sets his jaw.

“You shouldn’t suffer because of me. When this gets sorted out, we can all be together. If that’s what you want.” I can’t assume like Peter did. This is too important to be selfish about.

“I think you’re wrong.” He studies my face. “But if I can’t change your mind, I’ll stay here until you decide leaving us is a terrible plan.”

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