This address, the fact that Duncan lives here, that’s another secret.
Except…nothing is truly a secret when you have friends in high places.
How many of those Barclay still has, I couldn’t say. He doesn’t talk about them.
Yes, when I run errands in town, people look straight through me like I don’t exist. That doesn’t mean they’ve cut ties with Barclay. Just that they won’t be seen with either of us.
Finding out The Restorer’s identity is just the beginning.
Hurt or not, my brother will retaliate.
Oh no.No.
“Miss Montgomery.” Herbert’s expression twists from formal into one of remorse. It’s as if he’s mad at himself for coming up here in the first place, now that he realizes his mistake. “I’ll tell him you’re unavailable. That Mr. Rourke will return his call later.”
“It’s a good idea.” Mary edges closer, placing a hand on my shoulder. Concern rolls off her in waves. “We should wait for him to come home.”
Duncan would be able to take care of this for me easily. He’s powerful enough, enraged enough, to handle our problem.
In fact, I’m sure I wouldn’t have to lift a finger. Wouldn’t have to be subjected to any more abuse from Barclay ever again.
Which is why the old me would’ve agreed in a heartbeat. She’d tremble at the thought of hearing the disappointment in her brother’s voice. Would hand over her agency, hide behind other people.
Thing is, that version of me is dying, slowly but surely.
Duncan’s love slays my monsters one hug, kiss, and affirmation at a time. More importantly, he’s taught me that no one gets to dim my light.
No one. Including myself.
“It’s okay.” I pat Mary’s hand and stand up. Herbert frowns. “I’ll take the call.”
“Miss Montgomery,” Mary urges, her tone alarmed. “You’re pale. Hang up, Herbert. He’ll wait.”
“Yes, I?—”
Rolling my shoulders back, I tell both of them, “I’m fine.”
Herbert gives me a meaningful stare as I walk toward him.
Mary’s right behind me until she takes her place next to Herbert, her forehead creased. “We could stay here. If you need us.”
“I appreciate it.” I outstretch my hand. Mary’s face falls before I get to say, “But no.”
“Okay, then.” Herbert gives me a firm nod before handing over the phone. “We’ll be right outside. Anything at all…”
Since his hand is no longer on the receiver, and Barclay’s able to hear us, I return Herbert’s nod.
They drift to the hall, the door clicking shut behind them.
Deep breath.
“Barclay?”
“Sis,” he hisses, poison drenching his voice. “I knew it. You goddamn fucking whore. I warned you—no,orderedyou—not to take that so-called job.”
“Don’t you dare talk to me like that,” I snap instead of coiling, my blood heating. “You have no right.”
“And you have no right to sell your body. You’re a disgrace to this family.”
