Page 36 of Ruthless God

His jaw tics, tension coiled tight in his frame, but he doesn’t push. He hates this. Hates that I’m the one making the call. But he also knows I’m right.

He can’t know where I’m taking Cecely.

No one can.

I glance at the watch strapped to my wrist. Twenty minutes. She’s been in her room too long. I’m just about to go get her when the door creaks open.

She steps out, dragging a backpack behind her. Her eyes are red and swollen, telling me everything. She’s been crying.

Something twists deep in my gut. It’s a strange, unwelcome pull, but I ignore it.

This is hard for her. I get that. It should be.

She should be scared.

Because this isn’t over. Not even close.

“I’m ready.”

“Did you pack a laptop?”

“Yeah.”

“You can’t take it with you. Cell phone?”

Her gaze narrows. “You’re not serious, are you?”

“As we established, I’m dead serious.”

I’m expecting her to give me lip, but she doesn’t. Instead she squats, unzipping her bag and pulling out her laptop. She hands it over before digging her phone from her purse. She is about to give it to me when she stops.

“Wait. If I’m in danger, does that mean my mother is?”

I shake my head. “Just you.”

“Lucky me.”

She hands me her phone, which I tuck into my pocket.

“Let’s go.”

I keep my tone even and firm. No hesitation. No room for argument.

But before either of us can take a step, Lili Santos surges forward, throwing her arms around Cecely in a tight embrace. I watch closely, waiting for Cecely’s reaction. Except there isn’t one. She stands stiff, arms at her sides, making no move to return the hug.

Interesting.

“Call me when you can,” Lili murmurs, voice thick with emotion.

Cecely’s smile is tight, forced. “I’ll do my best.”

Then her gaze shifts to me. Her expression is unreadable, but her meaning is clear.I’m ready when you are.

I nod and lead the way, keeping my stride even and purposeful. She follows. We’re almost to the door when she halts.

Fuck.

I brace myself. Is this it? The moment she breaks? The moment she begs me to change my mind? I’ve seen it before. Desperation slipping in at the last second, clawing at whatever thin chance of control she thinks she still has.

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