Page 91 of Innocent Intentions

His presence pisses me off.

Not because he’s here, but because Margot could’ve seen him.

I don’t care if he knows about her. Hell, I want the whole fucking world to know she’s mine. But not yet. Not before I’ve solidified our relationship.

I’m almost certain she won’t run anymore, but Roman showing up,covered in blood, strutting in my house like a fucking animal? That could spook her. Thank God, I intercepted him at the door.

My phone rings again.

I clench my jaw and pick up, ready to snap. “What?”

The guard at the front gate clears his throat. “Uh, hey boss. Just wanted to verify the maid taking your dog to the vet.”

Silence.

The words don’t register at first.

Maid? Dog? Vet?

“What did you just say?” My voice is calm. Too calm.

“The girl, uh, she rolled up in your Mercedes. Said she needed to bring your dog to the vet. He was in the backseat. She said it was urgent, so I let them through. But something felt off, so I wanted to confirm with you.”

Buzzing.

That’s all I hear.

A slow, creeping static buzzes in my head.

“You let her go?”

My voice is even. Controlled.

I already know the answer.

I already know what’s happening.

But I need to hear it.

“Yes? She said the dog was sick. And, uh, she seemed in a hurry, but...”

I don’t hear the rest, because he let her go.

He let her go.

It can’t be Margot.

She wouldn’t run.

She wouldn’t.

She was excited about our lunch this morning. I know she wasn’t upset anymore.

She wouldn’t leave.

But as much as I tell myself that, I know the truth.

I take a deep breath. “When?”

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