Page 143 of Play Book

“I want to ride with Saylor,” Ally whispers.

“Honey, I don’t think—” I begin.

“It’s okay,” Grim says. “She can ride with us.”

I want to protest, but I’m too agitated.

It’s not the first time I’ve beaten someone bloody, and though I have no regrets, it’s not something I ever wanted Ally—or Saylor, for that matter—to see.

What will they think of me?

The last time I did it, I lost my sister and my niece.

That’s not a risk I can take this time, but it’s too late.

I’ve already done it.

With Saylor and Ally in the room.

My girls.

I squeeze my hands on the steering wheel of my Ferrari, trying to get my emotions under control as I follow Grim to the hospital. Stevie had said she would stay at the gallery while the police continued their investigation, and from what I’ve heard, our friends were already headed toward the hospital.

That Russell fucker is going to press charges.

This feels hauntingly familiar, but I don’t care.

I would do what I did to Ally’s dad a thousand times over again, and it’s no different this time.

He had his hands around Saylor’s neck.

Choking her.

Trying to kill her.

There is no universe where I wouldn’t kill anyone trying to hurt someone I care about. Maybe that makes me a monster. I don’t know, but I still wouldn’t do anything differently.

I might need a lawyer.

But I’ll deal with that once I know Saylor is okay.

That’s all I care about right now.

I’ve worked myself into a mood by the time I get to the hospital, refusing to leave Saylor’s side. Ironically, Ally won’t leave her side either, so the small cubicle where they’re examining her is pretty crowded. Grim is right outside the door, and a few minutes later Rage bursts in.

“Rage.” Saylor immediately reaches out a hand to him.

Fuck.

Have I already lost her?

“Hey, hon.” He approaches her gingerly, his eyes on her neck. “What in the fuck did he do?” He turns to Grim. “Did you end that piece of shit?”

Grim chuckles. “Didn’t need to. Hockey star over there had him unconscious by the time I arrived.”

“Good man.” Rage nods at me.

“Yeah, tell that to the cops.”

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