Chapter 1

I was stabbed three times in the stomach.

And my boyfriend? He was busy protecting his ex-girlfriend. This police academy student, who claims to serve and protect the citizens, decided his ex was more important than me.

I was stabbed three times in the stomach.

And my boyfriend? He was busy protecting his ex-girlfriend. This police academy student, who claims to serve and protect the citizens, decided his ex was more important than me.

So, I found someone who would prioritize me. But that person? He’s now on his knees, swearing he’s done nothing wrong.

I flipped him off. “Yeah, you did nothing wrong. You and your trashy ex-girlfriend can keep playing your little game. To hell with you both!”

“Claire, I had nowhere else to go,” Chloe Daniels said with her fake little voice. “Jason said he’d take me out to clear my head. I didn’t mean to intrude on you guys. I’m really sorry.”

Jason Foster arrived 30 minutes late, dragging this piece of work along with him.

I smiled at Jason and asked, “Jason, do you remember what you said yesterday? Do you even know what’s going on in that head of yours?”

Jason’s face changed. He grabbed my hand and said, “Don’t be unreasonable. Whatever happened with her before, it’s over. Besides, she’s just the neighbor’s little sister. I had to look out for her. It’s only right.”

“Little sister? The kind of sister you share a bed with? How many times have you ditched me for her?”

“There were reasons! Stop making this a thing!”

I pulled my hand back and wiped it with a tissue. “This is the last time.” After today, we’re done. I’ve been holding on so long I’m about to turn into a ninja turtle from all the restraint.

But Jason thought I was giving in again. Excitedly, he called Chloe over and took her bag, completely ignoring mine.

“Ryan,” Chloe chirped, “buy this lady in the white dress a flower. You’ve gotta keep your girlfriend happy!”