Page 112 of Property of Yak

“It’s not a big deal. I mean, don’t you know I would do anything for you by now?”

Something about his tone makes my body tense.

Ray has never outwardly hit on me or even made any sort of move, but for some reason, Liz’s warnings play through my mind.

He wants you.

“So what were you doing?” I ask, walking toward the kitchen.

I hear him fall into step behind me. “Oh, I was just out, checking on things.”

“Oh?”

“Yeah, you know how it is. I like to keep an eye on what’s mine.”

I brush off the uneasy feeling.

Your mind is playing tricks on you.

I point to the cabinet that holds the glasses. “Would you like a glass of water?”

“Sure.” As I pull down a glass, he drums his fingers on the countertop. “So what’s new with you lately?”

“Nothing really. Busy with work and life. You know how it is.” I grab the water pitcher from the fridge and fill the glass.

“Thank you,” he says as he reaches for it.

“Of course.”

“You forgot to mention getting tied up with an MC.” He scoffs. “I couldn’t believe it when your dad told me he was going somewhere with your boyfriend.”

My body freezes once again, but this time in fear.

I know my dad. He might have called Ray to ask him to come watch over me because that truly sounds like something he would do, but I know for a matter of fact, my father would not have mentioned the club. He wouldn’t have said anything about what’s going to transpire tonight.

“I’m sorry, you must be mistaken. I’m not seeing anyone associated with a club,” I say, my voice eerily calm.

“Don’t play dumb with me, Julie. It’s unbecoming. I know all about your criminal boyfriend and him sneaking in every night,” he says darkly.

Taking a shaky breath, I turn to face him. “What are you talking about?”

“I’ve seen him. Letting himself into your house. I’ve watched you embrace him like he means something to you.”

My hands go clammy, and my throat feels tight.

My eyes dart to the front door, but it’s too far away. Not only that but he stands between me and that exit.

The back door. If I go out the back, I can go to the side gate and rush to Mr. Rawlin’s home. He’s always there, and he would call for help without asking questions.

“How do you know that?” I ask as I take a step toward the back door.

“I’ve been watching you.”

“What? Why?” I ask, taking another step back.

He shakes his head like I’m the only one speaking nonsense. “Because I care about you.”

I must say something with my face because he scoffs.