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Lala nods approvingly and gives Candice a pointed look. “Imagine that.”

Candice rolls her eyes. “For a date like that, I think I’m okay with garbage. Especially if the sex is hot. At least if he doesn’t call back, I had a full night of fun.”

I can’t help but snicker with them, but something in my chest aches. I can’t imagine letting my guard down like that. Not even for coffee with Lala, much less an over-the-top romantic date night. Heck, I don’t trust my own shadow. How would I trust a man I barely know?

My face falls. How did I go from being brave enough to wear a badge to being afraid to walk around a private, secure back yard without checking over my shoulder?

Oh yeah. PTSD. And the ever-present fear that the past isn’t done with me. I peer up again, in time to see Anthony waving me over from the far end of the bar.

Lala catches my eye and nods. “Go, go.”

I take two steps in his direction, my heart beating wildly against my sternum. Is someone here to see me? I try to calm my nerves.

Anthony is aware of my predicament. I’m certain he wouldn’t let someone get close unless he was sure they were safe. Yet, no one I know⁠—

I nearly gasp. Holt! I don’t even think, just run, launching myself into his arms. “Wow. I can’t believe Gianni let you come in during business hours.”

He laughs. “Let me? I’m a member now.”

“Oh my god. Of course you are.” I laugh.

“Plus, I’m here all the time checking on you anyway.”

Out of the corner of my eye, I detect a stir near Max’s table. A low ripple of activity, Gianni laughing a little too loudly. I almost look. But instead decide to remain focused on my brother and this fantastic surprise.

Grinning up at Holt, I wiggle my pointer finger in his face. “Well, do me a favor and try to keep your playboy antics under control when you’re here. Signed NDAs or not, these girls talk amongst themselves. I really don’t need a play-by-play of all of your sexcapades.” I point upstairs.

He snorts. “Okay, okay. I’ll try. I get enough action outside of here anyway.”

“Eww.” I shake my head in disgust.

“Dr. Lee actually recommended I join,” he continues. “Between the opportunity to network with the high rollers here, the amenities, and you basically living here, it was a no-brainer. Plus, I can bring my buddies for events and stuff.”

“And stuff.” I smirk.

He winks.

Lord, help me.

“How long until you’re off work?” he asks.

“A few hours.”

“Want me to grab some dinner and bring it back to your room?”

“Sure. I’ll text you when I’m downstairs.”

He studies me for a second before pulling me back in for a hug, squeezing me tight. He drops his tone to barely a whisper, “You sure you’re okay, Mar? You looked kind of down when I got here.”

I think about Fern and her dreamy story. About Max’s company. About all the things I want that seem so far out of reach.

“I’m fine. Just letting jealousy get the best of me. I’ll tell you all about it later.”

He nods. “Okay. I’m holding you to it. I’m going to take a quick tour of the place until you text me. Maybe see what’s on the menu for dinner.”

“Okay. I’m so glad you’re here.” Especially after receiving those unknown number calls.

I barely make it back to my room, hobbling on these painful stilettos. My feet are killing me. Looking over my shoulder to ensure I’m alone, I let myself into my room, lock the door, and kick my shoes off, affronted at their betrayal of me.