Page 44 of What Comes Around

“You posted that video. I know you did. You did it then and you did it now!”

“I didn’t post it,” I said, tilting my head. “But I’m not sorry it exists.”

“LIAR.” She shoved the table, coffee sloshing over the rim. “You hated me. You always did. You couldn’t stand that people loved me. You always ruin everything.”

Two older men at the counter glanced over.

“No,” I said. “You did that on your own.”

“You took everything from me,” she snapped. “Nick. Dad’s love. And now you’re trying to take Knox.”

“People aren’t property. I can’t take anyone.”

Her voice dropped to a whisper. “If you don’t leave Sinclair Enterprises, I’ll burn her things. Every photo. Every letter.”

My chest tightened.

“You touch them,” I said quietly, “and I go to the police.”

She laughed, sharp and unsteady. “You won’t.”

I reached into my bag and pulled out my phone.

Her eyes narrowed. “What are you doing?”

I unlocked it and lifted it to my ear.

“Who are you calling?” she demanded.

“Emergency services.”

Her chair scraped. “Don’t you dare.”

I didn’t look at her as I spoke. “My sister is having a breakdown. She’s yelling and threatening to destroy property. I’m afraid she might hurt someone.”

Apple froze. Then exploded.

“YOU BITCH! She’s lying! She ruined my life! SHE DID THIS TO ME!”

I gave them the address.

“Yes. A café on Willow and Grant. Please hurry.”

“Hang up. HANG UP!”

“She’s been unstable for a long time,” I continued softly. “Depression. Anger issues. I’ve tried to help her.”

“She stole everything from me!” Apple screamed. “My men. My life. My future.”

“Apple, please,” I said gently. “Calm down. Help is coming.”

“STOP PRETENDING!” Apple shrieked. “You’re acting! You always act!”

I ended the call and placed the phone face-down on the table.

Then I leaned in, my voice low, expression soft enough to pass for concern.

“You’re not getting Knox,” I murmured. “I already have him. I’ll marry him. You’ll watch it happen.”