“Ody, who hit you? And why?” She followed him to the couch and sat beside him.
He took her hands, gently stroking them. “Baby, relax. It doesn’t even hurt.”
“That’s not the point. Tell me who did it and why.”
He stared ahead, silent.
“Has this happened before?” She searched his face.
“No.” He glanced at her, but she didn’t look convinced. “Baby, no. I’m serious.”
“Then tell me what happened. Did you get into a fight? You never fight with anyone.” Her gaze kept drifting back to the swelling.
“Calm down.” He squeezed her hands. “It’s just one of those guys. You know… the tough types.”
“Have they messed with you before?”
“No.”
“So they just saw you today and decided to hit you?”
“He’s in my class.” Ody shrugged. “It’s nothing. Just forget it.”
Her expression didn’t soften.
“Baby, I’m fine.” He forced a small smile and pulled her into a hug.
She leaned in to kiss him, her fingers brushing the bruise. A sharp sting shot through him, making him flinch.
Mano got dressed to meet Stella, styling his black hair with clay before grabbing his keys. He pulled up outside her house and texted her to come down. No response. He checked the time. 8:57 p.m. At 9:05, he warned her he was leaving in five minutes. At 9:09, the door finally opened. She stepped out, dressed to impress.
“Just made it,” he muttered.
“Hey, babyyy.” Stella flashed him a bright smile as she approached.
“You’re not making me wait like that again. Got it?” Mano said, his tone flat.
“I had to look perfect.” She ran a hand through her hair. “So many people are gonna see us.”
Mano frowned. “From where?”
“The stories I’m posting, obviously.”
His expression darkened. “You’re posting that you’re with me?” Disgust flickered across his face.
“Yeah.” She shrugged, completely unfazed.
Mano let out a slow breath. “You want me to kill you now or throw you off the bike while I’m driving?”
“How else will my ex move on?”
“He still follows you?”
“Yeah.” She pulled out her phone. “Wanna see?”
He turned the key in the ignition. “Get on,” he said, voice low and edged with warning.
He was wearing a black short-sleeve shirt that showed off the tattoos on his arms, khaki cargo pants, his usual cross necklace, and black shoes.
