Page 62 of Malicious Intentions

ME: She heard noises. What if she figures it out?

ASSHOLE STEPBRO: Stop worrying. I’ve got this.

ME: She seemed suspicious.

ASSHOLE STEPBRO: Don’t worry. I’ll protect both of us.

I stare at his response, still feeling anxious. Bubbles appear as he types. I bite my lip while waiting for his response.

ASSHOLE STEPBRO: There’s a knock on my door. I’ll call you as soon as she leaves, okay?

His words make me feel marginally better.

ME: Okay.

ASSHOLE STEPBRO: Deep breaths. Take a walk. Relax and have a coffee.

ME: That’s where I’m heading. I’m meeting Sophia.

ASSHOLE STEPBRO: Good girl. It’ll be fine. I’ll call you soon.

Squaring my shoulders, I put my phone away and head to the coffee shop to meet Sophia.

Sophiaand I are strolling outside with our coffees, enjoying the cool mid-September air. “Thank you for meeting me.”

“Anytime, Lexi.” She gestures her cup toward an empty bench nestled against some trees that offer privacy. She waits until we get closer before speaking. “Trust me, I get it. Staying at Trent’s… while it’s hot, the guilt is not. Sneaking around is sexy, but it also tears you up inside.” She bites her lips, her eyes on her brown boots as we sit.

“True. Why do I feel there’s more to the story?”

Her blush deepens, and she squirms, instantly confirming I’m right. She heaves out a sigh before turning to me. “When I returned to my dorm room, it had been ransacked.”

I nearly choked on my coffee at her words. Once I got myself under control, I stared at her in horror.“Oh my gosh. Did you report it?”

“Trent did. He was with me when I opened my door.” She gestures with her cup before taking a sip.

I cross my legs, studying her face. “What’s the university gonna do about it?”

She heaves out a sigh. “Not much, unfortunately. They checked the cameras but didn’t see anyone. They reminded me to ensure I always lock my door. It felt like they were blaming me.”

“Assholes.” I shake my head, disgusted by their response. “I’m so sorry, Sophia.”

She nods, not saying anything.

I grab her hand, squeezing it. “I’m worried about you.”

“Don’t be. I… uh… I’m safe.”

My brows raise as I take in her guilty expression. “You’re staying with Trent.”

She bites her lip. “Yup. I moved in temporarily. But I’m keeping it quiet so Owen doesn’t find out.”

“I promise I won’t say a word.” I give her a warm smile. “I like having you close, even if it’s on a different floor and the opposite end of the building.”

“We should get together and have a girl’s night sometime.” She bumps her shoulder into mine, wiggling her brows. “Or maybe the four of us could have dinner together at one of our apartments.”

It’s my turn to blush. “Sure. That sounds fun.” I keep my eyes averted.

“Something happened. Spill it.”

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