Page 85 of Shattered

Good, she’s almost home.

“We should clear out, guys; we don’t want to overwhelm her,” Gareth says.

“Does anyone know where Turner is?” Ty asks.

“He’s home,” Gareth says. “Give him some space.”

Ty scoffs. “Like he’s ever given any of us space.”

“Yeah, we all know he can be a prick sometimes,” Gareth says.

“Maybe, but Lila wouldn’t be alive right now if it weren’t for him,” I say.

The room goes silent as every set of eyes turns on me.

“Would someone just tell us what the fuck happened?” Juliet blurts.

“No. The guy’s an asshole, but I really think he’s an asshole because he cares.” I don’t know why I’m defending Turner, but I can’t fault him. We wouldn’t have gotten there in time if he hadn’t helped Bane and me. The way he took control of the situation while I was too scared to function is the only reason she’s still alive.

“That’s Turner in a nutshell. Tough love,” Ty says.

With nothing more to be said, I want them all out. “Thanks, guys.”

“We’re not here for you,” Juliet says. When the room stills, I feel every set of eyes on us. “We’re here for Lila. You just happen to be stuck to her. We don’t know what happened to her, but if it really is your fault, you will have all of us to answer to.”

“People make mistakes, Juliet,” Gareth says.

If the room was quiet before, now it’s dead silent.

“Gareth’s right,” Ty says firmly. “It’s what we do to make up for those mistakes that means everything.”

Neela wraps her arm through his as he speaks, and they share an emotional exchange.

“Let’s clear out, guys,” Neela says. “When Lila’s ready, we’ll be waiting.”

Chapter 34

Lila

Coming home doesn’t feel real. As Macy pulls into the driveway of my house, I glance at the one next door, black as death, and my heart pangs for Bane.

“Everyone cleared out. They didn’t want to crowd you when you came home. You know we’re all here for you,” Macy says.

I nod sadly. “Is Asher here?”

“Yes. Neela’s in there too. We’re going to stay with you guys in shifts since you’re on the mend, and he had surgery. We just want to make sure you’re both okay. We won’t be in the way.”

“Asher needed surgery?”

Macy smiles. “Go. You need to speak to him. Do you want me to come in for a bit?”

“No. I’ll be fine… Thanks, Mace.”

She smiles softly. “Of course. You know I’d do anything for you. I know you may not be ready to talk about what happened, but if you think it’ll help, I’m here to listen.”

I know Macy will be at the top of that list when that time comes. She knows what I’ve been through better than anyone. “I will.”

Macy helps me out of her truck since it’s a significant drop. I’m steady on my feet now, though a little slow. I’m still on medication for pain and anxiety, which have kept me drowsy, so I take my time, careful not to fall.

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