Can't you just take a leave of absence?
I've had so much time away, princess. Staring at you while you sleep is fun and everything but I think Ben will be able to look after you just fine for a few hours each day and I'll be home by supper.
You really think Ben is the best choice for this? He doesn't have an unselfish bone in his body.
Who would you have chosen?
I don't know...PJ, Lochlan maybe.
PJ has his hands full with the kids, and he can't look after them if he's taking care of you. And Lochlan isn't a good choice.
Why.
That isn't a question so it won't be answered, princess. We both know why.
Because you don't trust him.
Because I don't trust you.
Ouch, Jake.
Exactly, Bridget, ouch.
August.
Working.
Dalt.
Leaving in two days. Ben is free right now and he's closest to you in a different way.
I don't think he's cut out for this.
Bridget, he loves you without needing anything in return. He's the only friend you have who doesn't pull selfish tricks in exchange for your time. I actually trust Ben.
Tucker. Have you noticed the nicknames he gives me? Do you know what MILF stands for, Jake?
Are you comfortable with him?
Yes.
Then there's nothing more to be said.
He smiled at me and leaned forward to kiss my forehead, careful not to touch my shoulder. Earlier that hour he had brushed it when he brushed my hair for me and I screamed in pain. Cole had dislocated it when he threw me to the wall. The splint did nothing. I wanted a full-body bubble and way more drugs than they gave me.
When is my next pill?
Jacob frowned.
You had it ten minutes ago, princess. Give it a chance.
They don't work, Jacob. It hurts.
He set his mouth in a line and looked away. I knew that it was taking everything he had not to go and see Cole and kill him but I needed him here. I needed to build my army against Cole and against Caleb and Jake was going to lead.
He was going to...lead.
He isn't leading and I need to ask him why because he promised. He promised so many things.
This morning I threw the jar against the window and I left the mess. No one is allowed in that room except for me.
Me and Jake.
