We have an hour before Ben wakes up, and we spend them wrapped in each other, planning a future that feels suddenly, beautifully possible.
Chapter 17
Willa
Everything isperfect for exactly four days.
Then my phone buzzes at midnight with a text that makes my blood run cold.
Unknown Number: Took two P.I.s and one nosy neighbor, but I found you. We need to talk. - M
Wally. In Valentine.
I sit up in bed, my whole body shaking. He found me. After three months of peace, he found me.
Another text comes through.
Wally: I’m staying at the Valentine B&B. Room 3. We should discuss your future. This pediatrician in the boonies was a nice break, but it’s time to come home.
Home.Like Seattle was ever home. Like his apartment where I walked on eggshells was ever safe.
I call Henry, not caring that it’s midnight.
“Willa? What’s wrong?”
“He’s here. Wally is here. In Valentine.” My voice shakes. “He found me.”
“I’m coming over. Pack a bag. You’re staying with me.”
“Henry, I can’t?—”
“You can and you will. I’m not letting you face him alone.” His voice is fierce, protective. “Pack a bag. I’ll be there in ten minutes.”
He hangs up before I can argue.
I’m still sitting frozen on my bed when he arrives, letting himself in with the spare key I gave him two days ago.
“Hey.” He sits beside me, pulling me into his arms. “It’s okay. You’re safe, sweetheart.”
“He wants me to go back to Seattle. To quit my job and go back to him like the last three months didn’t happen.” I show him the texts, and his jaw clenches.
“You’re not going anywhere. You’re right where you’re supposed to be.”
“He’s persistent, Henry. And he’s respected. A neurosurgeon. People listen to him.” Fear claws at my throat. “What if he makes things difficult for me? For the clinic?”
“Then we deal with it. Together.” He tilts my chin up. “Willa, you’re not alone anymore. You have me. You have Ben. You have this whole town. Wally doesn’t get to control you anymore.”
I want to believe him. But fear is stronger than logic right now.
“I need to handle this myself,” I hear myself say. “I can’t drag you and Ben into this mess.”
“Too late. We’re already in it.”
I need to protect him.
I need to protect Ben.
I need to protect us.
