Page 221 of Broken Saint

Thankfully, he gets bored of staring at me after a few minutes, and with one more asshole smirk, he ducks into his car and disappears.

I discover why a few seconds later when Mom reappears with our cart full of food.

Is he really scared of her?

I can’t help but laugh at the thought.

That really does put things into perspective.

I might be weak, but he’s worse. So much worse.

“Benny’s here,” I say feeling a little lighter for the first time in hours at the sight of his car sitting in the driveway.

“He should be at school, he has class,” Mom complains.

It’s not the first time he’s surprised us with a visit since I’ve been back. He’s checking up on me, that’s more than obvious. As much as I hate that he feels like he has to, I also love that he cares enough to do so.

No sooner has Mom killed the engine does the front door open to reveal my larger-than-life little brother.

“Has he got bigger again?” I ask, taking in his wide shoulders and thick arms.

His frame is beginning to rival Colt and the guys.

It’s not right, Benny is my little brother; he should always be small and cute. Okay, maybe not so cute.

“Yes,” Mom says confidently before pushing the door open.

She might be out first, but Benny makes a beeline straight toward me.

“Ell-Bell,” he breathes before wrapping me in a bear hug.

Every muscle in my body relaxes as he holds me tight. My nose itches and my eyes burn with tears.

Mom’s hugged me loads, but there’s nothing like a hug from a strong man to make you feel safe and protected, even if it is your little brother.

“How are you doing?” he asks quietly.

“Good.”

“Liar.”

I let out a huge sigh.

“Coping,” I correct as I pull back from his embrace.

His brows pinch tight as he studies me. Really studies me.

My stomach twists because I know exactly what he can see.

Dark shadows under my eyes, sunken cheekbones, gray-tinted skin.

“I’m worried about you,” he confesses, making me feel a million times worse than I already do.

I don’t want anyone worrying about me, especially not Benny when he should be off living his best life at Trinity.

“I’m okay,” I attempt.

He smiles at me, but there’s no happiness in there.