Page 11 of A Forbidden Spring
MERRICK: But I asked you to be honest
WREN: And I was—not that it matters
MERRICK: What’s that supposed to mean?
WREN: You said you trust my judgment then immediately accused me of copying Holly
MERRICK: Your reaction confirmed everything I needed to know
WREN: How special for you.
MERRICK: Listen—I don’t want to fight with you, especially after dealing with that asshole
WREN: Why are you texting me then?
MERRICK: To make sure you know neither Mountain Side nor I will be doing business with that fucker and he can be removed if he steps foot on the property
WREN: Good because my brother is definitely gonna hit him
MERRICK: I’m glad someone gets to
WREN: Seriously why are you texting me?
I stare downat my phone, still amped up from meeting with Carter. I’d never get that hour of my life back. The guy was absolutely insufferable and overconfident that doing business together was adone deal.
My brother will have to answer to himandme when he gets out. I don’t know how many other bullshit deals he’s made, and I don’t have the time or energy for the amount of damage control that will require.
Still, Wren’s message stares back at me.Why had I texted her in the first place?
MERRICK: Am I bothering you?
WREN: That wasn’t the question
MERRICK: It is now
WREN: I’m still pretty pissed
MERRICK: I can deal with pissed
WREN: I don’t want you to deal with me
MERRICK: We’ll see
8
WREN
“That’s time,” I murmur to my client, smiling to myself as she lets out a contented sigh. “Take your time getting dressed, and I’ll be waiting with a cup of water for you when you’re ready.”
“You’re an angel, Wren.” Her voice is muffled as she lies face down on the table.
“Take your time,” I repeat before slipping out the door and shutting it softly behind me. My chest fills with warmth at being able to provide some relief to my clients. Whether they’re new to me or my regulars, I love making people feel good.
Relaxed.
And often, more like themselves.
Life outside these walls is waiting for them, but in here, I like knowing that I’ve helped them get ready to face those challenges head-on. Jana’s smile is bright, her posture so much more natural than when she came in, as she accepts the cup from me and slips cash into my palm.
