Sophia stays near Libby, so I bring her drink to her.
“Can someone tell me what’s going on?” I hate the coil of dread that’s winding in my stomach.
“Sawyer just said he saw someone grab Elena and drag her out the back door.” Sophia takes the cold glass and wraps her lips around the straw to take a long swallow.
The knot inside me snaps as the memories flood me.
Blood stains from that night stayed on the concrete for weeks. A lasting reminder of where Sarah died.
“No, no, no. This can’t be happening.” Nausea tugs at my throat.
Not again.
I don’t want anyone hurt here.
Then Elena reappears and sits down next to Sophia. Her clothing is torn, and her eyes hollow, but otherwise doesn’t look injured.
“Oh my god! What happened? Are you okay?” Libby leans across the table in a cow costume, her sincerity a surprise after everything I know that has happened between them.
Elena gives a small nod. “Wade is taking care of it. It’s Max. He came out of nowhere.”
Fuck. I know that asshole.
He’s one of the men that were with Chris that night.
Holy shit. This could have ended so much worse.
Blue comes back next, his jaw set in a hard clench. “Wade’s got him taken care of. Billy’s packing him in the rig now.” He leans over and kisses Libby on the top of the head. “Everything’s under control now.”
I’m done. I can’t handle this anymore.
“Blue, can you make an announcement that we’re shutting down an hour early?” I try to look like I’m not too flustered, but inside I’m screaming.
His silver-tinged mustache twitches. “You bet, Val.” With a nimble jump, he hops on stage and moves to the microphone.
“Attention everyone. Due to unforeseen circumstances, the party has to end a little early. Thank y’all for being here. Happy Halloween!” He gives the room a charming, practiced smile, then climbs back down to stand next to Libby.
“Okay, baby. Let’s get you home to rest.” He presses his lips against her temple, wrapping his hand around her waist.
So freaking adorable.
I never thought Blue had it in him, but he’s turned out to be a pretty great husband to her.
Why can’t all guys be that way?
There’s too many like my ex, or the creep who attacked Elena.
A shudder runs through me.
Wade strides through the masses like a bulldozer, bee-lining directly for his girl.
After a few quiet words, they leave with the tide of bodies.
Only when everyone is gone do I take a deep breath and shakily slide into one of the stools by the bar.
I can’t believe it happened again. Just when I thought I had a solid hold on my anxieties, my feet get knocked out from under me.
I need a damn drink.
