Page 33 of Twisted Redemption
Still, I feel the effects David had on this place whenever I’m here.
I sigh.
Something brushes against my ankle, and I jump. “Jesus, Angel, you scared me.”
She lets out an irritated meow before nudging my leg again. Stooping down to pet her, I smile. Ever since high school, I’ve always wanted a cat, and I’m secretly grateful that Blaze left her with me.
I pick her up. “C’mon, you goof. I just gotta get my book, and then it’s time for bed.” I pass through the living room and into my office. But when I step into it, I freeze.
The room is a disaster. Books have been tossed onto the floor, and the pretty blue baskets I found at the farmer’s market are ripped apart, their contents strewn across the room.
Stepping through the papers and keepsakes spilling across the floor, I try to bottle up the anger rising in my chest.
David did this. He destroyed everything.
Hot tears spring to my eyes as I stare at my torn-up baskets. Now that was completely unnecessary.
For a moment, I wish Blaze was here, comforting me with a box of chocolates and his arms around me. I know exactly what he’d say.
It’s okay to cry, Daisy.
You didn’t deserve this.
I’m here. I’m not going anywhere. Take your time.
Angel nudges her head against my chest just as I hear footsteps on the stairs. But that would mean—
No.
I whip around just in time to see a shadow cross the doorway. I slam the door shut and lock it.
There’s a loud thud, and I cringe. That tightness in my chest squeezes harder. I hug Angel tighter, but it doesn’t help.
“Open up, Brooke.”
My knees go weak at David’s voice. No, no, no. This can’t be happening. Why is he still here?
Or did he come back when I didn’t show up at the bar?
Shit. I should’ve stayed at Alex’s. I should’ve told him about the phone call. I should’ve done literally anything differently.
“I will break this door down, my love.” There’s another thud.
With shaking hands, I pull out my phone and call Alex. He’s not even a ten minute drive away. Maybe the door will hold until then.
Alex picks up on the second ring. “Brooke, are you all right?”
“David’s here,” I whisper. My voice is uneven and on the verge of breaking. “Alex, he’s here. He threatened me earlier. I’ve locked myself in the office, but—” I sob as I move to the window. Could I leave that way? Run to a neighbor’s house?
There’s another thud from the door, accompanied by a splintering crack.
He’s going to kill me.
“Blaze is already on his way. He left a couple minutes after you did.”
Relief floods through me, but it’s only temporarily. “Blaze? He followed me? No, wait, why Blaze? Alex, I want you. Please come. I’m scared.”
He sighs, still as calm and unaffected as ever. “You know he can protect you better than I can. Now, tell me. Is there anything in the office you can use as a weapon?”