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My mind is racing with thoughts of Zack, of how I didn’t get a chance to beat the shit out of him like I should have, and, even worse, of what could have happened if I hadn’t been there.

My car’s engine hums to life, but my grip on the wheel is tight and stiff, almost painful. “We’re going to the hotel,” I say, trying to steady my voice, though I’m still pissed. “You’ll stay in mypenthouse until we can make sure your apartment is safe. I can’t handle the thought that your asshole ex can just break into your apartment from your fire escape.”

Blossom glances at me, her bright, jade eyes wide with exhaustion. “Noah, calm down,” she says quietly, trying to soothe me.

I know she’s right, but it’s hard to calm down when I’m so damn furious. I could literally kill that guy if I ever see him again.

Pulling out my phone, I send a few texts while I stop at the red lights, setting things up to make sure Amy is safe too.

I can’t leave her in that apartment, either.

“I’ll set up a room for Amy,” I mutter, my focus on the phone. “She’s not staying there either.”

Blossom sighs. “Noah, I can’t thank you enough for this.”

I shake my head, still feeling like it’s not enough. “I’m pissed, Blossom. I can’t just sit back and pretend everything’s fine. What if he came back? What if he hurt you?”

She stays quiet, but by the look on her face, I can tell she understands.

I’m still seething when we hit another red light, and I grip the wheel, trying not to explode, but the image of Zack in the window, looking like a damn ghost, keeps replaying in my mind.

What the hell was he thinking? Didn’t he see me there sitting next to her?

“Please, let me take care of this,” I finally say, my voice steady but firm. “The idea of what would have happened if I wasn’t there...you’re pregnant, Blossom. I want you safe. I want to know for certain you’re safe.”

The words come out heavier than I expect, but I can’t help it.

I need her to know how serious this is to me, how serious I feel about her.

Blossom’s silent for a long moment, and I worry I’ve said too much. I watch as she tucks a long, reddish strand behind her ear, but when she finally speaks, her voice is softer. “I know. I do...I know you’re trying to protect me, Noah.”

The weight of her words settles into the car, and my anger doesn’t vanish, but it softens a little, replaced by the urgency to make sure she’s okay.

“I can’t tell you how thankful I am you were there, Noah,” she says after a beat. “I can’t thank you enough, seriously.”

I glance over at her, my heart twisting in my chest, and I grab her hand gently. “I’d do anything for you, Blossom. You and the baby.”

She meets my gaze, a clarity to her viridian eyes, and I know she’s starting to believe me. I just want her to feel safe, to feel like everything’s going to be okay.

The Hudson Hotel finally comes into view, and I feel a small sense of relief knowing we’re almost there. Guiding Blossom up the steps and into the lobby, I’m still keeping an eye on our surroundings, making sure nothing out of the ordinary happens.

I don’t want to draw attention to her situation, to her being here in my penthouse.

I want to protect her, including from prying eyes and gossip. I want to keep her safe without anyone questioning anything.

After a quick word with the front desk, I lead her toward the elevator.

“I need to book Amy a room after I get you settled,” I tell her, my mind still focused on making sure both of them are taken care of.

We finally reach the penthouse, and I open the door for her, watching as she steps inside.

The space feels almost too big for the two of us, but it’s a safe haven, and for now, that’s all I care about. I can feel the stress in my shoulders fall as I finally feelsafein my own home.

I’d like to see Zack manage to get up here to my private floor, at the top of the hotel, past security.

“Take a shower—relax,” I suggest to Blossom, my voice softer now. “You’re safe here. Text me if you need anything at all. Just no more horror movies tonight,” I add with a small smile. “We’ve had enough adrenaline for one night.”

Blossom sheepishly grins back, her smile tired but grateful. “Thanks, Noah.”