Page 7 of Resisting my Roommate

“But it’s not yours, either. Since your name isn’t on the registration and it’s been reported stolen, I can’t let you continue driving it unless you have some other proof of ownership.”

“I don’t think I do.” I swallow hard through the ball of frustration tightening in my throat.

Would Carson really do something like this? Would he report the car he bought me as stolen just to spite me for running off on our wedding?

I guess I’m finally seeing his true colors, in all their ugly shades.

“He said it wouldn’t matter once we were married.”

With a sympathetic look, Sergeant Chapman returns my license. “Unfortunately, without any proof of shared ownership, I’ll need to impound it.”

“Even if I had permission to use it? Although, I’m not sure he could have anticipated I’d use it to run out on our wedding, but I also didn’t anticipate learning he’s been cheating on me.”

“Listen,” he begins, his voice softening. “It’s obvious you’ve had a…difficult day. In my line of work, you learn to determine when someone’s lying pretty quickly. I get a feeling you’re being honest with me. Unfortunately, I can’t let you take off with a car that’s been reported stolen by the rightful owner, regardless of how repulsive I think his actions are, given the circumstances. There’s nothing I can do about it. I have to impound this car.”

I close my eyes, drawing in a deep breath. This entire situation is the icing on an already shitty cake. But if Carsonthinks I’ll crawl back to him just because he took away my mode of transportation, he’d better think again. I’m stronger than this.

“I’m happy to drive you somewhere if you’d like.”

“That’s not necessary.” Grabbing my bag, I open the door and step onto the pavement, my dress spilling out around me.

“If you change your mind, give me a call.” He reaches into the pocket of his uniform and hands me a card. “Just tell dispatch it’s an emergency and they’ll radio me right away.”

“I appreciate it, but I’ll be okay. This is all a blessing in disguise. The universe’s way of telling me to cut ties with Carson entirely.”

“Based on what you’ve told me, I’d tend to agree. Good luck, Ms. Rhodes.”

“Thanks.” I give him one last smile, then collect my skirt in my hands to prevent it from dragging as I start up the sidewalk.

As I do, people stop and stare. I can only imagine how ridiculous I look right now in this dress, but I hold my head high, determined to remain positive. I don’t need his car. I’ll figure out some other way to get to wherever I’m going.

Although, I’m not quite sure where that is. I’m not quite sure where Icango, considering I’ve been living with Carson for the past few years.

In an apartment he owns.

Not only do I not have a car, I also don’t have a job or a place to live.

I’m not going to worry about it, though.

I’ll figure something out. I always do.

I scan the storefronts of the quaint downtown area that looks like something straight out of a movie, right down to the people happily greeting each other and stopping for a chat. The streets are lined with picturesque lampposts, adding a warm glow to the darkening sky. The scent of sugar and vanilla wafts in the air, and I spy a diner advertising the best chocolate cake in the state.

I’m about to head in its direction before something else catches my attention. A neon sign advertising beer.

Chocolate cake can wait.

Right now, I need something stronger.

CHAPTER FOUR

JUDE

“For the love of god, we need more help,” Dylan whines, shooting me a glare as she hurries behind the bar to pour another round of beers.

The buzz of conversation and laughter surrounds me, a sign that my downtown taproom is once again bustling with customers.

With spring in full bloom, this place has been getting busier and busier, especially with people wanting to enjoy the weather on the outdoor patio that overlooks a play area for kids I put in a few years ago, all to encourage business.

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