“No, no. It’s okay. I left him last night. He didn’t get physical or anything. Just… said some awful shit. It was rough, but I’m used to it. I’ll be okay once I figure out where I’m going to live. I was hoping to grab the rest of my stuff today, but he was home on my lunch break. He was supposed to be gone.” I probably shouldn’t have let that all spill out, but I must’ve needed to talk about it.
“Are you safe, Cammie?” his brows furrow. “I’ll come with you. Make sure he’s gone.”
“No. Don’t do that. He’d flip if I showed up with another guy. It’s easier if I go alone. I’ll just drive past. If he’s still there, I’ll leave. I’ve still got my motel room from last night.”
“You’re staying in a motel? Which one?” He looks concerned. “Again—are you safe?”
“I think so. He doesn’t know where I am. I’m at Central Lane Motel, it’s four-star rated. It’s fine, just until I can find a rental.”
“Cam… I really don’t like the sound of this. You call me if you ever need anything. You have my number. I’m a call away.”
“Thanks, Ty.” I smile as I lead him to the basin to wash his hair.
We sit in silence, both unsure of what to say next. I can tell he wants to offer more, but he’s holding back. I want to ask for help, but I need to do this on my own.
As I finish drying his hair, he finally says, “I’ve been thinking. I’m staying with my boss Emerson, while I do renos on my place. He’s a good guy. I’m sure he wouldn’t mind if you needed a place for a bit. Want me to—”
“Ty,” I interrupt gently. “I’ll be fine. Really. I’ve got this.”
“At least let me add his number to your phone in case you change your mind.” I nod and hand him my phone. His touch is warm and steady as he enters the contact.
“Thanks, Tyler. I appreciate it. I’ll let you know if I need anything,” I lie.
He pays, gives me a hug, and heads out.
Now my shift is over, it’s time to drive by Sean’s again and see if he is finally gone.
Spoiler: he’s not.
What the actual fuck.
Why is he still here?
Why hasn’t he left?
I don’t have time to deal with this, I have to get back to Gizmo. I bet his flight got pushed back a day or something. Yep, I’m sure that’s all it is.
I guess Gizmo and I are spending another night at the motel for now.
4
Wrecked plans
It’s been just over a week since I left Sean.
Poor Gizmo and I have been stuck at this motel for eight nights—longer than I imagined we would. I start my day in a bit of a sour mood… knowing Sean is still home. I don’t know what to do now that my plan has been disrupted. I don’t know why, or for how long, but he hasn’t left. And that means I haven’t been able to grab the rest of my things.
Just the thought of walking back into that house makes my stomach twist.
I can’t face him. Not yet.
Not with his eyes that used to make me feel loved and now just feel like weapons.
What if he tries to talk me into coming back?
What if he gets angry and it’s not just the wall this time?
I really don’t want to see him.
