I breathe a sigh of relief. I don’t think I’ve ever been so happy to see another person before in my life.
“She was asking for it,” the guy slurs.
“No, she wasn’t. She told you to stop and you didn’t listen. Now get the hell out of here.”
Troy drags him to the door and tosses him out.
“Fuck you, man!”
“Don’t even think about coming back here. You’re not welcome.”
Troy’s presence is intimidating. It has the few people standing on the porch rushing back inside while others linger to see what’s going to happen.
Typical of a college party.
“Don’t you have anything better to do?” Troy barks out.
That sends the stragglers running.
“Are you okay?” Troy sidles up to my side, but doesn’t come within two feet of me.
“Nothing was going to happen.”
Concern laces Troy’s face. “That guy was tryingawfully hard.”
“I can hold my own.”
“You shouldn’t have to.”
“I appreciate it, Troy. I think I’m going to head home.”
There’s no way in hell I’m staying out after that.
“Let me walk you home.”
“It’s okay. You can get back to your party.”
Troy takes a tentative step forward. “I don’t need to be here. You need me more.”
Do I? Now that the adrenaline is starting to seep from my body, I’m tired. I have no doubt that I would’ve been okay. That guy was drunk enough I could have kicked his ass.
Right?
“Oh my God!” Harper bursts through the front door. “Are you okay?”
“I’m okay.”
“Are you sure?” Harper wraps me in her arms. It gives me a moment to settle. “I’ll take you home.”
Marcus is standing behind her, Troy at his side.
“You stay,” I whisper. “Troy will take me home.”
“You sure? I don’t want to leave you like this.”
I pull back, looking her in the eyes. “I promise, I’ll be okay. Have fun with Marcus.” I turn my attention behind us. “Keep an eye on her.”
“I will.”
