Page 58 of Shattered Union

“It’s too much. I need to breathe, Jer,” I whisper.

His expression softens. “Go on, Callie girl. But call and text us when you get to where you’re going and promise you’ll call me if you need me.”

I cross the room to him and wrap my arms around him. “Thank you.”

His arms tighten around me. “I know your mam’s pissed, Callie girl. But she’ll come around. Are you happy?”

I take a step back. “About the pregnancy?”

He nods. “Sweetheart, you’re going through a lot. A messy relationship. Because let’s face it, as soon as that bitch is dead, you and Denis will be back together. You’ve been hurt, you’re scared to stay in your own home, and your mam’s in a mood.”

I laugh. “When you put it like that—”

He chuckles. “It’ll all work out in the end.”

“If you say so.” I glance around the hallway; it’s completely empty except for us. “I’m really sorry for ruining your party.”

He waves me off. “It was going to be shite, anyway. Having to deal with Thomas is never pleasant.”

I press my lips together to stop the laughter, but instantly regret it. Damn, it’s still tender. “Uncle Jer, Patty loves him.”

She’s the only one who does. My aunt Patty is the sweetest woman ever. Her daughter Jessica takes after her. Pure, innocent, and sweet. But Patty’s husband, Thomas, is an arsehole. None of us can stand him and we all do whatever we can to ensure we don’t spend any time with him.

“She’s daft, that’s what she is.”

I shake my head. “Don’t let her catch you saying that,” I say with a smile. I’m glad it was him who caught me before I left. He’s managed to cheer me up.

“Go and make sure you eat. You’re all skin and bones these days.” He kisses my head and gives me a small smile.

I kiss his cheek. “Thanks, Uncle Jer. Love you.”

His brown eyes twinkle. “Love you too, Callie girl. Now go, escape while you can.”

I giggle. God, he’s a riot. I leave the house, grateful no one else is around. I don’t want to deal with their anger.

I step out of the house, and the cool air hits me. Thank God it’s the summer and the nights are brighter for longer. It’s only eight in the evening and it’s as bright as it would be if it were the afternoon.

I climb into my car and turn on the engine. The passenger’s side door opens and I don’t have to look to see Ava sliding in beside me. The floral scent has been her signature scent since she was fifteen.

“You okay?” she asks, pulling on her seatbelt.

“Grand,” I lie. “Do you need a lift home?”

“That’ll be great, thanks. You’ll let me know where you’re spending the night?”

I should have known she’d know what I was planning. “Yeah, I will. I’m probably going to check into a hotel. Get some work done and sleep.” I put the car into gear and pull out of the driveway and onto the road.

“I’ve been worried about you,” she confesses quietly. “You’ve been dealing with so much already, add in the pregnancy and that bitch trying to have you killed.” She sighs. “Just know you’re not alone, Callie. I’m here if you need me.”

“I know, I’m just trying to wrap my head around everything.”

“I take it we won’t be going to London, I mean, the way Denis looks at you—” She fans herself. “Damn. I wish someone would give me an ounce of what he gives you.”

I frown, glancing at her for a second to see her smiling brightly. “How does he look at me?”

“Like you’re everything he needs to survive. He looks at you like a man who’s been starved for a month and you’re his next meal. That man loves you, Callie. I know he’s hurt you, deeply. He lied, and I understand you're hesitant. But the love he has for you. That’s not a lie. It’s clear for everyone to see.”

My heart races at her words.

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