Page 10 of Red

Maybe Dean is my stalker?

No, he’s just too proper for that. He sees the world in black and white only, I highly doubt he would ever so much as think about doing such a thing.

Besides, there’snostalker!

I look back at him with my brows lifted high in disbelief. “Don’t ever raise your voice at me.” I stay composed but flaming with rage inside. “Wolves are extirpated from the entire state.”

“I see you did your research on that, also.”

“I’m not dumb, okay. He’s just a mutt.”

Dean glares at me with his mouth pressed in a hard line.

Okay! I know this animal doesn’t look like a typical dog. Yet, I feel this weird connection to him.

Then I add, “He can be useful too. It’s kinda scary here at nights. I need a companion.”

“What about me? I can keep you company.”

You wish!

“Maybe you should check onEmilyabout that, hon.”

“Jesus fucking Christ!” he cusses like a true Catholic, rolling his eyes.

I’m aware I’m acting ridiculous. Perhaps it’s just me looking for a reason to split. Regardless, I have a new vibrator to check out. No need to waste any more of my time arguing with him.

He approaches me, and now we’re all in the contained corner of my kitchen. Dog included.

“I think you should leave now.”

“Julia, don’t be absurd.”

“No, I don’t appreciate being patronized. I want to be alone.”

“Why don’t you calm down and—”

“I. Am. Fucking. Calm.” I’m pretty sure I’m foaming at the mouth.

“Babe, come on!” He takes a step closer with his hands on the counter on my opposite sides, caging me in.

Dread settles like a rock in my stomach.

I’d have zero problem slashing him with the nearby knife. I took some self-defense right afterI started college, moving away from my family home in Michigan to the Windy City.

Fine! I know the guy was in the Marines and I don’t stand any chance. Still, I’ll cut him even if it’s the last thing I do when he tries me.

However, my protector immediately forces himself in-between us, showing his entire set of sharp teeth at my about-to-be-ex.

“This isn’t working for me, Dean.” I don’t understand why my eyes are burning.

His expression perplexed as my words are sinking in. It’s almost as if he wants to keep the fight going, but the dog is ready to pounce.

“I’ll talk to you later,” he replies with a sigh, nervously running his hand through his hair, then finally exits.

I feel a gentle nudge at my hand, and I look down at my furry friend.

“You’re such a good boy!” I commend as I get to his level. I pet him affectionately before I remember I got steaks for both of us. “Oh, I have something yummy for you!”

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