Page 28 of High Stakes

“Do you think he called you on purpose?”

I shake my head, “I think he probably butt-dialled.” She doesn’t look convinced. “If he did, then it only confirms what I already thought, he’s not for me.”

“Do you know what you need?”

“Do not say a night out.”

“It’s the answer for everything bad in the world. Alcohol and friends. I’ll get Jack on board.”

When I get in from work, Aiden is sitting at the kitchen table working away on his laptop. He glances up and I notice the marks on his neck, but neither of us speak as I march past and head to my room.

Once I’m showered, I apply some light make-up to brighten my dark undereye circles, add a little mascara, then slip into a cute, white summer dress. It clings to my curves in all the right places, flaring at the bottom.

When I go back through the lounge, Aiden is staring blankly at the television. He glances my way, letting his eyes run down my body. “Enjoy your date,” he mutters.

I roll my eyes at how childish he’s being. “Actually, I cancelled my date after you stormed out last night.” I slip my sandals on.

Aiden stands, closing the gap between us and I stare into his relieved eyes, “That’s great, do you want to do something?” My eyes fall to the marks on his neck, and he shifts uncomfortably, tugging his collar up on his t-shirt to try and hide them. “Cinema perhaps, somewhere dark?” he adds a small laugh to lighten the mood.

“I have plans,” I mutter.

“Please, Bella. Just give me a chance.”

“What for?” I demand.

“We were getting on yesterday, right?”

“You threw a tantrum because I spoke to another man, Aiden. And whilst I realise, what I did wasn’t great timing, you handled it by going to fuck another woman to spite me. It’s not the sort of situationship I need in my life.”

“I didn’t fuck her,” he lies, and my mouth falls open in shock.

“I should go,” I mutter, heading for the door.

He chases me down, trying to block my path. “You know it’s not safe to be out alone.”

I reach for the door, tugging it open and he steps to the side. “I’m not going out alone. I’ll be with my friends, and JP is coming too.”

“He is?”

“And he doesn’t seem to think the threat is that bad, so hopefully, I’ll be out of your hair in no time.”

His eyes narrow, “JP actually said that?”

“I’ve also left some rent money on the side, I wouldn’t want you thinking I was taking you for afree ride,”I say, smiling wide. “Have a good evening.” And I leave, making sure to slam the door closed.

Aiden

As soon as the door closes, I call JP. “Yeah, man?” he answers.

“Why the fuck are you telling Bella the threat is almost over?”

“Because you’re fucking it all up, Aiden. I like the girl, and I can’t stand the way you’re going about this. I mean, going off with Laurie like that, it’s causing unnecessary hurt.”

“She was always going to get hurt, JP. It’s not like I’m going to marry her.”

“I just don’t think this was what Jake meant when he came up with this idea. He chose Bella for a reason, and I can’t help thinking he was giving you a shot as happiness. You’re blowing it.”

“No JP, you’re blowing it for me, because you want to bang her friend. If you mess this up, I’ll tell Sara what you’re up to, whilst she’s looking after your baby.”

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