Page 105 of The Re-Proposal

“Are you okay?” she asks. “You’ve seemed a little preoccupied all afternoon.”

I want to tell her about Maggie and her ex so badly, but I know Ms. Phoebe will insist on calling the police. I promised Maggie I wouldn’t tell anyone.

Maybe some promises are meant to be broken.

“Clarissa?” Ms. Phoebe touches my arm.

“I’m fine. Just a little overwhelmed. There’s so much to do before opening day.” I check my watch. “I’ll be late to catch my bus.”

“Do you want a ride?”

“Your house is on the other side of the city.” I shake my head. “It’s fine. I have a podcast I want to listen to on the way.”

“Get home safely.”

“I will.” I give her a wave and hurry along the path.

The sun is setting and stars twinkle in the darkening sky.

I’m halfway to the bus stop when I hear footsteps crunching behind me.

My fingers tighten around my purse and I quicken my step.

Whoever’s behind me moves faster too.

Heart in my throat, I pull my phone out. Before I can dial 911, a heavy hand lands on my shoulder and hauls me around.

I stare up into the bloodshot eyes of Rick, Maggie’s boyfriend.

“It’s because of you,” he slurs. The alcohol on his breath slams me in the face. He lumbers over me. “Maggie left because of you. She says she’s taking our kid.” He shakes his head. “It’s your fault. You filled her head with lies.”

“Let go of me!” I struggle.

He grabs my upper arms and shakes me like a rag doll. “It’s your fault!”

“Rick, you don’t want to go any further than this or there’s no escape for you. Iwillcall the police.”

“I don’t care anymore!” He wraps his hands around my throat. “I just want Maggie back.”

I try to shove him off, but it’s like pushing against a wall.

“Help!” I scream. Panic coats me like a second skin. “Someone help!”

But there’s no one around.

The darkness presses in.

I scratch at his fingers, fighting for my life.

Suddenly, the pressure on my throat loosens and Rick goes flying back. He hits the ground hard.

I peer through hazy eyes and see a head of blond hair and a jaw clenched in anger.

Cody?

12

BLOODY CUFFS

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