Page 7 of Wicked Devotions: Part 2

“People will believe the wildest stories if they come from the right sources. I’m not saying that you might not face some laughter behind your back or whispered gossip but by and large, everything should work out okay.”

“We got you excused from classes for the next week, if you want.”

“No, I’ll go right back.” It’ll be better to face any backlash head on.

Besides, nothing is as scary as facing the three guys I left behind this morning.

Chapter

Three

CYRUS

Cillian’s SUV rolls up the driveway while I wait with my shoulder resting against the side door frame. He gives me a nod of greeting while I walk down the stairs as he parks. I go straight to open Harper’s door, anxious to get my arms around her.

Emerson and Declan are pissed and hurt, but I think I understand why she ran to Banks. I’m glad I’ll have a few hours while they’re at practice to talk to her. Each of them on their own is intense, and when both of them direct that energy at you at once, it’s overwhelming. I know from many personal experiences.

“What’s up you little thief?” I ask as I meet her eyes.

Her eyes immediately turn glassy. “I’m so sorry for that.”

“No worries.” I drag her into my arms for a hug as soon as her feet hit the pavement. “You stole my hoodie, too.”

She lets go of me and looks down. “I just grabbed the closest one on the floor when I got up.”

I’d give her the shirt off my back if she asked for it, especially when she looks so fucking adorable in my clothes. She looks down and steps around me, heading for her mom. Cillian sets his hand on my shoulder to halt me from following them into the house.

“Where are Declan and Emerson?” he asks.

“At practice.”

“We can’t stay that long, so I trust you’ll be able to relay our conversation?”

“Of course.”

I ready myself for a lecture about what we did last night. I’ve already been summoned by my uncle; I have to leave to go see him as soon as the guys get back. It’s not going to be pretty. He’s seen the video, and he’s not the most open-minded of people.

“I need you guys to figure out who took the video because neither I nor the PI think it was the stalker. In fact, we’re worried it’s going to escalate his behavior.” He pulls out a bag and hands it to me. “These are trackers, put them on everything with wheels, in all your wallets, and for fuck’s sake, make sure there’s at least two on or near Harper at all times when she’s not home.”

“I can do that.”

“And perhaps don’t have sex out where just anyone can walk past and see you.”

“Anything else?” I ask as I look around the property.

“No. Should there be?” He follows my gaze. “Do you want me to lecture you on safe sex?”

“Not particularly,” I scoff.

“Good. Me neither.” He shifts his weight from foot to foot. “Just take care of each other.”

“Always.” I meet his eyes, so he knows I’m serious. I would take a bullet for Declan and Emerson. I’d step in front of a trainfor Harper. There’s no length I wouldn’t go to in order to protect them.

“That’s all I can ask for.”

We walk into the house and find Harper and Annabelle sitting on the couch, their legs folded under them in mirror positions as they each sip on a mug of hot tea. They both have glossy eyes when they look up at Cillian and I as we enter the room. Annabelle reaches over and sets her hand over Harper’s while she says something quietly.

“We need to get back,” he says.

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