Page 6 of The Marine

It sounds horrible.

It was horrible.

I’m just no stranger to abuse, so I suppose I have a tolerance for it that’s not healthy, but it is what it is.

“I said I would go on three dates with him. All I have to do is play his game. Then it’s over. I won’t be alone with him.” I say, breaking eye contact with them.

They don’t understand. Sometimes it’s better not to poke the bear. Given time, Kael will come to accept that I’m leaving him, and I’m hoping during these three dates he will get there sooner.

At least that’s my plan.

“You know it won’t be that simple.” Alice reaches for my hand and squeezes it. “Please rethink this.”

I’ve gone over and over it.

This is the only way.

The alternative is calling the police and making a report about his abuse then getting a restraining order. One I don’t think he will respect.

This path feels like it’s less dramatic and less stressful.

The only date I’m worried about is Savannah’s wedding because, and I quote, “he’s my husband so I have to take him.”

I can’t argue with that.

He is.

In three weeks, I can call my lawyer and demand the divorce take place. Kael will think I’ve given it my all, and it’s documented as part of our legal process.

If I’m not alone with him, it should be fine.

Plus, having Kael with me at the wedding is not a bad thing. Aidan will be there, and I don’t trust either of us in a room with alcohol.

That dark and intense gaze of his had me waking up in the middle of the night last week with my hand between my legs and his name on my lips.

Worse, I continued rubbing my clit until I was shaking and an orgasm ripped through me.

I hate him.

And I desire him.

Neither of us has acknowledged we know one another, and it’s better that way.

“I’ll be fine. I lived with him for years. We will not be alone.” I reassure them and we move on to much happier conversations.

“Well, bitches, I have to go to my beauty therapist to get my mooch waxed.” Trina stands and slides her bag on her shoulder. “Ta ta!”

Alice and I watch her walk through the restaurant with the confidence of a thousand women.

“Mooch?” I lift my brow.

“How does she come up with all these names?” Alice shakes her head. “Last week it waspow wow.”

I start to giggle and Alice joins in.

Being with my girls makes everything okay.

Almost.

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