Page 253 of Fame & Chaos

“And what? I am supposed to believe you?”

“Yes.” His eyes search mine desperately. “Because it’s the truth. I never touched her.”

“I don’t believe you!” The words echo through the café, drawing every pair of eyes toward us. “You ruined me, Caleb.”

Pain flashes across his face. “Indi, please—”

Movement catches my attention.

Mick is hurrying toward us from behind the counter. “You okay, Indica?”

I nod automatically and step away from Caleb, desperate to put some distance between us before I completely lose my resolve.

“What the fuck’s it to you?” Caleb snaps as he reaches for me again.

“Hey!” Mick grabs my arm, gently pulling me behind him. “Keep your hands off her.”

The moment Caleb’s fingers slip away, a hollow ache settles in my chest.

“And who the fuck are you?” Caleb demands. His eyes never leave mine. “Indi… please. Just talk to me.”

Mick squares his shoulders. “I’m her boyfriend.”

The words hang in the air… while Caleb goes completely still.

His eyes drop briefly to Mick’s name badge before lifting back to my face.

“Mick?”

“Yeah.”

The color drains from Caleb’s face so quickly that my anger almost falters.

Almost.

“So what is it?” he asks quietly. “Mick the Dick… or Mick the Prick?” His mouth twists into a humorless smile. “Maybe Indi should give Mick the flick.”

I close my eyes.

Seriously?

“Shut up, dickhead,” Mick fires back.

I place a hand against his chest before either of them can make things worse.

“Indi,” Caleb pleads.

I slowly shake my head. “I can’t,” then turn toward the back exit.

“No… Indi, wait.” His footsteps follow immediately.

Mick moves between us. “Leave her alone.”

Caleb laughs—a short, bitter sound. “Or what?” He shoves Mick in the chest.

“Caleb!” I shout.

Mick shoves him back. “Or you’ll have me to deal with.”