One
GRACE
Behind closed doors, I took a deep breath and tried to stop shaking. It all came back to me in an instant. The sinking feeling deep in my stomach that Mase would actually go through with it and kill me. It felt like a lump weighing me down. It didn’t hurt as much as it broke my heart. I was relieved when he let go. He would never be able to live with himself if he hurt me.
I’m so fucked up over him.
I shook my head and grabbed a glass of water. It burned sliding down my throat.
I looked down at my clothes… they were mostly in order. I wasn’t sure where my panties were.
I giggled and wiped the tears from my eyes.
So fucked up.
* * *
It might have beena little warm for a turtleneck, but Mase left bruises and I wasn’t ready to tell my crew about last night. I would have to tell them, though.
If Mase told his father about me, it would put all of us in danger. I owed them a heads up to make sure they watched their backs. If a Guardian or Lady Guardian got hurt because of me, I’d never forgive myself.
I found Dana at the diner down the street from the clubhouse.
She was seated at table near the back, talking and waving her hands at the waiter.
I scooted between the tables and the full counter in the busy restaurant.
“I’m eating for two, so don’t judge.” She said and pointed to something on the menu.
The guy grinned down at her and wrote on a note pad.
“Hey Jake.” I patted the guy on the shoulder as I slid into the seat across from Dana.
“Hey Stick.” He put the pencil behind his ear. “You want something to eat. I think we have some food left.” Jake chuckled.
Dana swiped at his leg and he jumped back.
“I’ll have ham and swiss on sourdough-- Panini style.” I licked my lips and batted my eyelashes.
He winked and turned back towards the kitchen.
I always flirted with Jake. He was a sweet man and could cook.
Today it felt wrong.
My hands went up to my neck.
It was mild compared to the soreness between my legs.
“What happened?” Dana asked.
I blinked and looked up.
“What?” I held my hands out.
“You’re blushing.” Dana rubbed her belly.
“I don’t blush.” I looked at my hands. “My skin’s too brown to blush.”