Page 12 of Shattered Oaths

I feel like I’ve seen less and less of them in the past few months. I could put it down to the fact that they’re all engaged or married with children now, but that wouldn’t be the full truth.

I’ve known since day one that the men in my life don’t like Justin. They’ve never sugar-coated the way they feel about him. Especially Noah. And Justin isn’t particularly fond of them either.Especially Noah.

Because of that, I found myself splitting my time between my friends and my boyfriend. The girls’ have never had an issue with Justin. They’ve not spent a whole bunch of time with him, but they have always supported our relationship and been happy for me. Nowadays though, it’s rare to spend time with them without the men around.

I used to wish that they could put their shit aside and get along for my sake at least but since Justin found out about the whole Halloween party secret, I know there is no chance of that happening. And if I’m honest, I’m not sure I trust him to be around everyone and not spill my biggest secret.

Despite the fact Justin won’t be home to enjoy it, I finish cooking dinner and leave it in the refrigerator for tomorrow. I’m not in the mood to eat it now, anyway.

Dejected, I drag my feet to the bathroom and into the shower to wash off the disappointment of yet another failed attempt to save my relationship. Turning on the water, I let the hot spray rain down on me and drop my head.

I’ve had a permanent sinking feeling in my stomach for weeks now and I can’t put my finger on why.

Actually, I can. I’m just not ready to admit it to myself just yet.

***

It’s after eleven when I hear our bedroom door creak open, the slither of light from the hallway illuminating the darkness of the room. I keep my breathing shallow, lying still in the bed as Justin tiptoes across the bedroom and into the bathroom, the lingering scent of whiskey following him as he passes me.

I hear the shower turn on and my breath rushes out in a long whoosh, the sinking feeling in my stomach deepening.

This is new.

I’ve been at war with myself for days, battling the inner feeling that something isn’t quite right.

I mean, sure, it’s totally normal for someone to work late when they’re stepping into a new roll. They’ve got shit to prove; I get it. But coming home at almost midnight, smelling of booze and taking a shower right away? Major red flag.

I’m not naïve.

I grew up surrounded by teenage boys turned men.

And I’ve heard the rumours that circulate around town about what goes on at Thompson Publishing regarding Justin’s father and his long list of assistants.

I’d like to think that the man I fell in love with wouldn’t do that to me, but I learned a long time ago that you never truly know a person. And after what I walked in on, I’m starting to see the truth behind that statement.

The shower shuts off and I close my eyes, feigning sleep, as I listen for the sound of the bathroom door opening.

As much as my mind is running wild with questions and theories, I just don’t have the energy to bring it up right now. And I can’t go accusing him of sneaking around without hardcore evidence.

Finding his receptionist leaning over his desk with her ass practically on display is something, but it isn’tenough.

I could follow him? Show up unannounced at his office again when he’s ‘workinglate’.

We all know how well that turned out last time,my subconscious screams at me.

But this time would be different. This time I’d be prepared for whatever I’m likely to find on the other side of that door.

I’m elbow deep in overthinking and plotting when a thought strikes me.

I have one friend that is especially conniving and beautifully brilliant.Liv.

I make a mental note to call her tomorrow and get her advice on how to proceed.

I’m overdue a visit with the newest member to our clan anyway.

With that plan in mind, and the soft snores coming from beside me indicating that Justin is asleep, I finally feel myself relax ever so slightly until eventually the darkness pulls me under.

CHAPTER 5