Page 32 (1/2)

“Think you’re better than ruh—”

“Save the sob story,” Bennet snarls “I can guarantee you I’ve seen worse You asked the lady for so her So leave”

The hter Larry’s hand keeps shifting in his pocket

“Bennet…”

“I know” Bennet raises his hand “Don’t worry, if that h to pull a weapon on oing to be, fellas? Do you really want to do this?”

Bennet speaks in a completely calm manner, but there is a tick in his jaw and his fists are clenched at his sides

It’s clear he’s ready to fight all four of these men if that’s what it takes

But then the speaker for the group turns away, shaking his head “Come on, boys We’ll try down at the coffee shop”

Bennet watches the Once they’re out of sight, he spins onin close

“Are you okay?” he asks

“Yeah, yeah, I’m fine” I draw in a shaky breath “I feel so bad for them I mean, they were clearly desperate for money”

“I know And I love that your first instinct is sympathy But those men would’ve robbed you blind if you’d taken them to the ATM”

“I’lad you were there”

“I’ll always protect you,” he growls, giving my shoulder a squeeze “Are you sure you’re okay? I can wait outside if you want”

“I’ll be on caood for later?”

He steps closer like he ht lean down But then he remembers where we are and takes a quick step back

It painsintoin public and risking dad finding out before we have a chance to tell him

“I’ll be here Call ”

“I will,” I promise “See you later”

I walk into ca Bennet’s eyes on me, protective and possessive like he’ll always be

I wouldn’t have him any other way