Page 67 of Every Single Vow
“I’m ten minutes from getting on a bull. If your ass is not in those stands in fiv..”
“Coop,” I say quietly.
He goes silent.
A beat passes.
“Birdie.”
“I need you.”
There’s no hesitation. “Text me the address. I’m on my way.”
When he ends the call, I stare ahead, watching the blue and red lights flash.
I’m free.
He’s gone.
But my freedom will only last so long. One day he’s going to want revenge. Because the truth is…. I’ve never seen that bag in my entire life.
Chapter forty-three
Cooper
It took almost three hours for the police to get the information they needed and for the doctor to release Kota and Ari. Ari is currently drawing on a notepad that a nurse let her borrow. Thankfully she came out of the accident without a scratch. Dakota keeps glancing over at her, and I can already read the look in her eyes. She blames herself.
We’re waiting on the nurse to bring the discharge papers when the curtain sweeps back and Christine steps inside. I can practically see the blood drain from Dakota’s face.
“Christine.” She slides off the bed.
“Hi. I got word you two were in an accident and I wanted to check in. I was actually planning a surprise visit this evening, but I figured it would be less hassle to just come here and check on Arizona.”
“Of course.” Dakota waves her in.
Ari looks up and gives a small smile. “Hey.” She darts her gaze to me.
“Hey, Arizona. You ok?” She asks.
“I’m good. Not even a bruise.” She motions her hand. “Dakota got the brunt of it.”
Christine nods, her eyes focusing on Dakota. “Mind if I speak with Arizona in private for a moment?”
“Is that ok with you, Ari?” Dakota asks.
“Yeah. That’s fine.” She shrugs.
“Here.” I pull out my wallet and take out a few dollar bills. “Why don’t you grab you a snack from the vending machine down the hallway.”
Ari pushes to her feet, taking the money before she follows Christine. As soon as they disappear down the hallway, Dakota sinks to the bed.
“She’s going to take her away.” Her voice cracks.
“Baby. Look at me.” I walk over, crouching down in front of her. “No one is taking her away.”
“They will,” she hisses. “I almost got her killed today!”
I capture her hands in mine. “You did nothing wrong.”
