Page 76 of Filthy Savage

Grabbing my handbag, I slip out from the employee exit, the cool air hitting my face as I jog toward the parking lot and get into my car. My fingers jitter as I start the engine. And when I’m finally on the road, I take a breath, emotions plaguing me at the same time.

Memories sweep through my mind like a gust of wind, sending my heart into chaos.

“Why are you being so nice to me?”

“Because someone has to be.”

His words echo, the gentleness in them.

Yet there was nothing gentle about the man I just saw. He was someone else.

But he was always that man, wasn’t he? He was just hiding it.

The way he grabbed Xander, how angry he looked… I should’ve seen it. He was dangerous even then. I didn’t think he was a murderer, though.

But things are much clearer now. Fionn is not a good man, and I have to do everything I can to keep my daughter away from him.

As soon as I make it back home, I slip the car into the driveway and rush up the cobblestone steps, barely able to get the key in the keyhole.

Lilith jumps up as soon as I step inside, shutting off the TV. “Hey, you’re early.” But as soon as she takes in my appearance, her face draws with concern. “What’s wrong?”

“Oh, nothing. Just felt super ill and they let me go home.” Grabbing some cash from my wallet, I hand it to her, my fingers visibly quivering.

“Amara, I don’t need money.” She grasps my fingers to steady my trembling. “Are you sure you’re okay?”

“Mm-hmm. Just need sleep.” I push down my emotions and try not to cry.

“Okay… If you’re sure.”

“I am. Thank you so much.”

“Do you need me tomorrow?”

“Uh…” My heart races, needing her to go. “No. I’m gonna take the day off, just in case I’m still sick. I have some days saved.”

Her brows draw tighter. “Okay. Well, if you need me any other day, just let me know. I’m always happy to help.”

“I know.” My arms curl around her. “Thank you.”

I barely sound like myself—small and broken.

“Okay…uh, no problem. You’re sure you’re okay, right?”

“Completely.”

“Alright.” She starts for the exit, hitting me with speculative glances. “I’ll call to check on you tomorrow.”

“Sounds good. Thanks again.”

“Have a good night.”

“You too.”

Shutting the door, I lock the double bolt, then hope like hell I can escape before they come for my daughter and me.

CHAPTER 20

FIONN

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