Page 168 of Thorns of Malice

Dax: No, I didn't. If there's anything you don't like, toss it on the bed. Kristen will get rid of it, and I can replace it.

Me: You know that's not going to happen.

Dax: You don't have to keep anything you don't like. Don't feel bad to eliminate things. Seriously.

Me: Everything's beautiful. Thank you.

Dax: You're welcome, baby girl. I'm going back to work now so I can hopefully be home sooner.

Me: Okay. I love you.

Tingles race up my spine. I realize it's the first time I've said it to Dax and truly meant it since I've returned. And there aren't any harsh feelings attached to my words.

Dax: You don't understand how happy I am to see that in writing.

Me: Why don't you come home sooner, and I'll tell you it to your face. Maybe I'll wear...

I send the message. I search through the wardrobe, then open several dresser drawers until I find what I assumed would be in the closet.

A scandalous, whore-red lingerie outfit is folded inside. I take it out, set it on the dresser, take a picture, and send it to Dax.

Me: Maybe I'll wear this.

Dax: I'll be home as soon as possible.

Three drooling emojis follow.

I laugh and set down the phone. I take my time exploring all the different items in the closet.

Another text comes in.

Dax: There's one more thing, gorgeous.

Me: What's that?

Dax: If you're going to leave the house today, I want the driver to take you. The roads aren't great.

Me: I'll be fine. I know how to drive through snow.

He calls me.

I pick it up, insisting, "Hey, I don't want to argue about this. It's not necessary for me to have a driver."

He replies, "I don't want to debate either, Ivy, but I need to know you're safe. After everything that happened with Cooper last night?—"

"Did something else happen?" I interject.

"No, but I'd prefer to take precautions. He's angry and threatened to kill us, and I don't want to take any chances."

My heart beats faster. "Do you really think he's capable of physically harming us?"

"I don't know. I hope not, but like I said, I'd prefer to play it safe—especially with you, Ivy. So, can you please allow the driver to take you anywhere you want to go?"

Realizing that if Dax is worried, it may be best to do what he says, so I agree. "Okay."

I can hear the relief in his voice. "Thanks, gorgeous."

"Sure."

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