Page 42 of Due Process
“It’s 3 a.m., Stells,” Curtis growled. “Where are you—”
“Why are you still up?”
“I’m waiting for you,” he said, so straightforward, like that didn’t pose a question.
“You’re at Dad’s?”
He sighed. “I had to know you got home safe.”
What? What does that mean? And why does it make me want to go home immediately?
At that moment, a random guy happened to stagger down the corridor, pivoting towards the male toilets. “Have to take a piss… Think some leaked out already.”Eww.
“Stella, where are you?” Curtis asked. His tone had grown frigid.
“A-at a motorcycle club—bar—drink thingy.”
“Motorcycle—fuck, Stells. Are you safe? Where’s Daisy?”
“In the bathroom with some guy.”
His words cut out for a bit, but I could still pick up the impressive tirade of threats. Then, I heard keys jiggling in the background before his voice rang clear once more.
“Tell me where.”
“Well, about that—”
“Now, Stella!” The rumble of the car ignition sounded through the speaker.
“Oakfield,” I whispered.
“Huh? Say again?”
“Oakfield.”
“Fuck’s sake. Hold on, I’m coming.”
“Here? You’re coming here?”
“What?” he snapped. “You saying you don’t want me to? Want to go for a quick ride in the toilet as well?”
“Hey,” I admonished. “Don’t talk about her like that. Her husband’s a cheating jerk. She doesn’t owe loyalty to anyone but herself.”
“I didn’t mean it like that, Stells,” Curtis said, his tone laced with frustration and underlying hurt. “You’re both grown women and can do whatever you want. But what about your messages, baby? You miss me? Youdreamabout me? Is that true?”
Well, Stella. What the fuck do you have to say now?Daisy had sent those messages, but they were tipsy confessions that had spilled directly from my mouth. I could have lied, but it was Curtis—my best friend. He deserved honesty. Always.
“Maybe…” I said, trying to be evasive and failing.
“Yes or no, baby?” he asked. “No workarounds, no maybes. Tell me, is it true?”
I licked my lips, knowing there was no escape. “Yes. It’s true.”
“Good girl. Now, the truth again. Have you not finished partying with your friend, or do you want me to come get you?”
My eyes lapsed shut, processing the blatant care radiating from his voice. I knew he was already in the car, but with one word from me, he would turn around and leave us be, if I chose. But right then, I couldn’t think of anything worse.
I wanted him there. I wanted him with me. “I want you.”
