Page 83 of Wicked Scandal

“Don’t worry about it. Just take care of yourself, and your baby, too.”

“I didn’t want to sleep with him if that makes you feel any better,” she says quietly. “I told him no so many times. It wasn’t until he said he was planning to leave you that I gave in. But then I saw the bruise on your neck when you left one day and I heard him yelling at you. The day the bookshelf fell over was the day I found out I was pregnant and it felt too late.”

That day had been one of the worst. Troy ripped my shirt and told Beth that I tripped getting up and fell into the bookcase. I remember pleading with her to see the truth, and it turns out she did. She was just trapped by him too.

“He said he wanted a baby and I foolishly thought that maybe if I had one, his anger would stop, so I kept it.”

I squeeze her hand, understanding. Sometimes those that are being hurt will try anything to get away. They are isolated and afraid and every rational thought goes out the window, all that matters is pleasing your abuser.

“It’s okay, Beth.” I wrap my arms around her again. “He’s rotting in hell, right where he deserves to be.”

She nods and I sit there, just holding her trembling body against mine. I can’t imagine what her baby feels, but in some way I want to reassure them both. Troy might have brought them harm, but I will be their safe space just like Wilder is mine.

After Beth and I exchange numbers, she leaves and we make a plan to check in with one another. It really won’t be too hard since she’s decided to get a room at the same motel I’m in. With any luck, we’ll both be out of that place soon.

I watch as she pulls away, her taillights fading in the distance. Last time I thought this was over, I didn’t fully feel at peace. I think it’s because part of me knew the killer was still out there. But now, everything feels right.

Wilder wraps his arms around me from behind and kisses the top of my head. “I’m proud of you, baby.”

I close my eyes, savoring this moment. “It’s finally over.”

“Yes,” he sighs heavily. “This time, it’s finally over.”

CHAPTER 28

WILDER

Three Months Later

“He’s beautiful,” I tell Beth as Catherine scoops Liam from her arms. I watch my girl cradling this perfect baby, and my heart swells. One day Cat is going to make an amazing mother.

“Thank you,” Beth smiles. “I still can’t believe he's mine.” A tear rolls down her cheek and she sweeps it away. “Catherine was an amazing coach through my labor. I’m not sure I could have done it without her.”

“Nonsense,” Cat snickers as she stares down at Liam. “It was all you. You did incredible.” Swaying the baby in her arms, she looks at me and I know that look. “I want one,” she pouts.

I put an arm around her shoulders and peer down at Liam. “I know you do and one day we’re going to have one or two…”

“Or three. Maybe four.”

“Whoa now.” I chuckle, my finger wrapping around Liam’s tiny hand. “We’re getting a little carried away here. Let’s start with one.”

She pushes herself up on her tiptoes and kisses me. “Deal.”

“How is the new girl doing?” Beth asks Wilder with a raised brow. She’s referring to Grant’sassistant that's filling in for her while she’s on maternity leave.

He clicks his tongue on the roof of his mouth. “Eh. She’s trying her best. But you know how my dad is. He’s a stickler for timeliness and organization.”

“She’ll get the hang of it,” Beth says with a chuckle. “And by the time she does, I'll be back to work.”

I’m glad my father was on board with Beth working for him. He didn’t hesitate and agreed to give it a try. She’s been working for him ever since. Well, until now that is. After Cat explained how important it was to her that we help Beth, I started to share that same mentality. She’s a good person and she deserves good things in life.

“Your turn,” Cat says as she turns toward me and presses Liam against my chest.

My hands go out instinctively, but my apprehension is apparent. “Umm. I don't know what to do.”

I’ve never held a baby before. At least, not that I can remember.

“There really isn’t much to it.” Cat chuckles. “You just don’t drop him. Pretend he’s a football signed by your favorite NFL player.”

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