Page 84 of Seeking Two Lovers

“Do your best,” I stated firmly, needing that note to get into Sarah’s hands.

We chatted for a few more minutes. Higgins filled me in on the people he’d found who had left Quell’s flock. He had a meeting set for the following Monday to sit and chat about their time beneath the cult leader’s teachings.

“From the things I’ve recorded with the drones, those fucking boxes and the public whipping that took place on the village green outside the temple, we have enough to bring a case against him—assault and child abuse at minimum.”

“It’ll take more than that to get his ass locked away for how long he deserves.”

“Think your friend would agree to stand as a witness if charges are brought up?”

“I know he will,” I said, my tone grim at the reminder of Blaine’s steadfast gaze when he’d stated he wanted to help.

“We’ll see what I can get from this couple on Monday, and we’ll go from there.” His voice trailed off but picked up a few seconds later. “Looks like they’re going to a medical building…an OB office.”

Sarah had a doctor’s appointment.

“Let me see what I can do,” Higgins said quickly, his voice muffled. “Call you back in a few.”

We hung up, and I sat staring at my phone, willing the minutes to tick away, praying for whatever gods existed to allow Higgins to get that note to Blaine’s sister.

Close to a half-hour passed, and my guts clenched, making me wish I hadn’t eaten those goddamn donuts.

Needing distraction from watching the clock, I checked my email, then shot off a text to Blaine checking in with him.

Within seconds, he replied with a thumbs up.

“Better than not responding at all,” I muttered, tapping into the message thread with Lily for a pick-me-up.

I’d texted Lily a few times since she’d left us on Sunday morning, our usual banter and sexual teasing keeping me from spiraling along with Blaine.

Little Minx: I was just thinking about you.

I grinned at the text I’d missed earlier that morning and typed out a quick reply. All good fantasies, I hope.

Three dots lit up immediately.

Little Minx: Of course. How are things?

Things? I shot back.

Little Minx: You know—life in general. Blaine. You and Blaine.

A sudden longing to spill everything, to unload the shit I kept taking from my best friend to help carry his burden rolled me beneath the surface like a crashing wave.

I’m exhausted, I typed out that bit of honesty. Blaine has some family shit going on. I’m not sure what all he’s told you, but fuck, I can’t make it go away. Can’t carry it all on my own shoulders for him.

Little Minx: You’re a giver until it hurts, aren’t you?

I huffed a laugh even though my throat stayed tight. Yeah. Got it from my mom.

Lily knew my dad lived back east, but I hadn’t told her about the accident that had ripped Mom from our lives. I hadn’t shared the depth of pain I still struggled with when admitting to needs I never got to have filled—and the fear that kept me from trying for more with anyone.

Little Minx: Are you running dry?

Fuck, how did she know me so well?

Getting there fast as fuck, I texted more honesty, able to breathe just the slightest bit better.

Little Minx: What happened to your mom?

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