Page 247 of Show Me

I shake my head. “Don’t.”

“I brought her here.” His voice is rough. “I let her into this house. Near Ruby.”

“You didn’t know.”

“No.” He shakes his head. “But I keep replaying it anyway.”

None of us says anything until Sam breaks the silence. “This isn’t your fault. Neither of your faults.”

I laugh, but it’s bitter rather than full of humor. “Ruby thought somebody was after her because of something she did.” I stare at the floor. “But it was because of me.”

Ben leans forward. “So, what now?”

I drag my hand through my hair. “She thinks I’m choosing her because of the baby.”

Neither of them argues. Because after everything I said about relationships.... I get why she’d believe that.

Ben picks up his beer again. “Then don’t tell her she’s wrong. Show her.”

“Every day,” Sam agrees with his brother.

The room falls quiet again. Consistency. That’s what she needs now. Not another speech. Not promises. Just someone who keeps showing up.

And this time.... I’m not going anywhere.

Chapter One Hundred Thirty-Six

Ruby

A Few Days Later

Callahan’s feels too loud at first. Music hums from the speakers. Pool balls crack near the back wall. People laugh over drinks and football highlights.

Normal.

A week ago, I was fighting for my life on my kitchen floor. Now the bartender is arguing with a regular about whether the offensive line is cursed.

The world didn’t stop. It just kept moving.

Bella nudges my shoulder. “You’re dissociating again.”

“I’m people watching.”

“You’ve been staring at the same guy eating mozzarella sticks for two minutes.”

I blink. The guy looks mildly alarmed when our eyes meet. Oops.

Emily smiles from across the table. “This is why we dragged you out.”

A group near the dart boards erupts into cheers. My shoulders tense before my brain catches up. Neither of them comments.

Emily shifts her chair enough that I have a clearer view of the door. The gesture makes my throat tighten. I hate that I notice exits now.

Bella steals another fry. “You going to eat anything?”

“Apparently morning sickness is a liar. Mine lasts all day.”

“That’s rude.”