Page 173 of Dare To Fall

Miles: Are you still alive?

Me: Still kicking.

Miles: I don’t know what he’s telling you, but I think you should leave now. If you don’t, I’m calling the cops.

He’s right, it’s time to go. I’ve been here long enough.

Pushing back my chair, I rise. “I need to get back.”

Jace stands. “Can I give you a lift back to the house?”

“No, thanks. I’ll call an Uber.”

“Still don’t trust me?” His smile is sad.

I back away from him. “After what happened, you’re lucky I turned up at all.”

“Bella,” Jace calls as I turn to leave. “Warn Eli. I don’t think this is over. Evan is fixated on him.”

The knowledge sends a sick feeling spiraling through me. I call for an Uber the second I’m outside, and text Miles while I’m waiting for it to arrive.

Me: I’m leaving now.

Miles: Thank fuck for that. What did you learn?

Me: That Evan is a manipulative psychopath.

Miles: I could have told you that.

Me: I’m texting Eli to tell him where I’ve been.

Miles: Good.

I know I’m about to get into a whole world of trouble, but I don’t shy from it. I shoot Eli a text and hope he won’t be too mad with me once I get home.

Me: I’ve been at the Country Club talking to Jace. Please don’t be angry with me. We’ll talk when I get back.

Chapter 115

Eli

My cell chimes in my pocket. Pulling it out, I tap on the screen.

Kitten: I’ve been at the Country Club talking to Jace. Please don’t be angry with me. We’ll talk when I get back.

“What the fuck?” I lurch to my feet and stab the call icon. “Are you fucking stupid?” I snarl down the line when she picks up.

“It’s fine.” Her voice is calm. “I’m on my way back now.”

“Jace is—”

“No, he’s not. I’ll explain everything when I’m home.”

“Ari—”

“No, Eli. I’m not arguing with you over the phone. I’m already being stared at because everyone can hear you yelling. I’ll be home soon, then we’ll talk.”

She cuts the call and leaves me standing, staring at it. “Fuck’s sake.”

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