But then she lets out a long breath.
"One night," she says."And to be clear, I'm not some damsel in distress."
"You're a Marine who can probably kick my ass."
"Probably?"
"Definitely.But I'm bigger and you're tired.So tonight, I win."
Her lips twitch."Tomorrow I kick your ass."
"Looking forward to it."We both know it's a lie.But I'll take it.
"I need to go back to my apartment and get some things," she says.
We get in our separate vehicles and drive back to the apartment complex.I stay three cars back, scanning for the Tahoe or the F-250 or any other vehicle that doesn't belong.
Nothing.
But that doesn't mean he's not watching.When I’m satisfied Randall and his friends aren’t here, I go upstairs too.When she knocks on my door, she's carrying a duffel and her purse.
"You can take the bed," I say."I'll sleep on the couch."
"Thank you.For earlier.For stepping in."
"You don't need to thank me."
"Yeah, I do."She looks at me, and her expression is softer now.Vulnerable."I spent eight months telling myself I could handle this alone.And maybe I could have.But it's easier knowing I don't have to."
"You don't have to.Not anymore."
She nods, and for a moment, we just stand there.
Then she picks up her bag and heads toward the bedroom.
"Carla," I say.
She turns.
"He's not getting to you.Not while I'm here.You understand?"
She nods again, and this time, I think she believes me.
After she closes the bedroom door, I check the locks.Then I pull out my phone and text Vincent.
Might need that backup after all.
When and where?
I'll let you know.
I set the phone down and settle onto the couch.
Randall Shelly just declared war.
And he has no idea who he's dealing with.
