Page 164 of The Sinner's Sanctuary

“I know. She’s horrible.”

Marianne’s head bobs up and down in agreement.

“Can I hug you?”

She nods again.

I pull her into my arms and hold her while she cries. I keep my hands frozen on her back and rest my chin on her soft bun. I can’t remember the last time we even didthis.

Since this could very well be the last time I hold Marianne, I soak in what I can from it. Not the sobbing part, but the trust, however fleeting. Her forever familiar scent.

“Why did you go to her?” she asks when she manages to catch her breath again.

I let go and take half a step away. “I needed a witness regarding our marriage for the annulment.”

Her glare could slice me in half. “And she gave it to you?”

“She did.”

“Snake.”

I’m not sure if she means me or Avery.

She lifts her chin again, resolve in her posture and the glacial guard back on her tear-streaked face. “I want the apartment.”

I shut my eyes and turn my back on her. “Five hundred million dollars, Marianne. This is my building.”

She exhales harshly. “Do you feel better now?”

I shake my head.

“When would you like me gone?”

That question is one of the harshest I’ve ever been asked. If I don’t give her a timeline, she might never leave. If I give her one, I’m evicting her.

“Please don’t make me answer that.”

She sighs heavily. “So brave until you have to face the consequences.”

I turn around. “Marianne…”

She waves a hand to shut me up. “I need to be alone for a while. Is there anything else I need to know?”

“No,” I say.

“I hope he’s worth it.”

He got me this far.

I may never be able to thank him enough.

46

CHRISTIAN

It’s game night at Elodie’s, and I’m playing a dark round ofCards Against Humanity. Several times I’ve gotten dubious looks and one, “You sure everything’s all right?” from Jeremy.

My mind is a few buildings up, though. It has been for hours.

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