Page 55 of Stolen Rebel

Carol

Did anyone come by to check on you?

I stare at the screen. Because I’m supposed to be in London, and in London, he knows I have one friend: Willow.

Me

Willow.

She dropped soup and Lemsip at the door.

My chest tightens as I wait for his reply.

Carol

Call me.

My stomach flips. I bite my knuckle to stop myself from letting out the dismayed wail bubbling up in my throat.

I can’t call him. Patrick is in the house. Sorcha is in the house. There are men everywhere. Even the fucking dog could overhear me and somehow give me away.

Me

I can’t talk right now.

My throat is fucked.

Carol

Video.

Sweat prickles across my hairline, at the nape of my neck, and my palms grow slick. My breath’s coming so short and sharp it’s like needles are embedded in my lungs.

Me

Please.

I look like shit.

Carol

I don’t care what you look like.

Check in or I’m knocking on your door, Erin.

My pulse roars in her ears, I’m shivering but sweating.

Me

I am checking in. I’m at home.

Carol

Prove it.

My hands go numb, the phone shakes so much it almost slides out of my grip.

Me