Page 119 of Changing Rules

My gut clenches. “How did you know that?”

Miller has scruffy stubble on his cheeks, and his eyes are hard. Cold. His expression could be called murderous. I’m not afraid of this fucker, and though it took a lot of time and energy, I’ve learned how to ignore him. Mostly.

“Saw a photo on her Stories.”

That tightness in my gut turns into a painful twist. “She blocked you.”

He lifts a shoulder. “I have my ways.”

I huff. “What’s it to you anyway?”

The wrinkle between his brows deepens. “Are the two of you together?”

“That’s none of your business.” I stand and slip my phone into my pocket.

“Anything concerning her is my business,” he grits out. “She’ll always be mine.”

I shake my head. He’ll never change.

“You’re delusional,” I say as I walk away from the pompous ass.

Parked a few houses down,I survey Millie’s house. Maybe I should have called first, or at least texted her to let her know I was on my way. But if I’d done that, I can guarantee she would’ve met me out front. This way, with any luck, she’ll invite me in, give me a chance to get to know this new version of her a little more.

She’s changed so much. She’s so bold, so confident. Yet many things about her are the same. Her perfume, the sharp black lines of her eyeliner, her vanilla lip balm. How she nibbles on her bottom lip when she’s frustrated. Her sense of humor. The way her eyes blaze when she’s irritated. She’s still my Bella, yet she’s a new person, one I want to know more about.

With a harsh exhale, I climb out of my car. I wonder if Millie’s home, and what she thinks about me. Does she know I’m trying to win her niece back? She let Milo stay, but I don’t dare let myself hope it’s a sign she still likes me.

The instant I knock on the door, Milo barks.

Yeah, buddy, you need to protect her from unwanted guests. That’s what a good doggie does.

That’s whatIwould’ve done.

I let out a sardonic chuckle.Good Lord, what is it with me and these thoughts about becoming a dog?

The door opens slightly, and Bella peeks out. It’s a bolt of lightning to the chest, just like it is every time I see her.

“Xander? You said you’d call.”

“I forgot.” With a smile, I rock back on my heels.

She rolls her eyes.Please, Bella, let me in.

She pulls the door open wide but doesn’t move from the doorway, so I stay where I am. Milo rushes to me, wagging his tail, his face fixed in a smile, if that’s even possible. I can’t remember the last time he wasthishappy to see me.

“Hey, boy.” I kneel and scratch behind his ear. “Did you miss me?”

Bella, to my shock, steps back and says, “Come on in.”

I usher Milo back into the house, considering what kind of treats I’ll shower him with when we get home.

The foyer is small, and the two moving boxes stacked in the corner make the space feel crowded.

I nod at them. “Are you still unpacking?”

Lips pressed together, she shakes her head. “No, they’re for my internship in May.” She turns and pads into the living room, hips swaying, perfect ass stealing my attention.

I clear my throat and follow. Marco mentioned an internship, but that’s all I know. I’m eager to hear about it, to hear about everything, but we’re not there yet.

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