Page 70 of The Protection Agreement

“He what?!”

“He had his hands up your legs before I got to him.”

My heart races fast, like I’ve just been thrown on a roller coaster ride. One of my fears has happened to me again. I drop his hand fast and get out of bed. I feel the tears building up, but I force them back. I turn a frown to him.

“So, he fingered me under your watch. What else did he do?” My tone is harsh.

“He didn’t get his fingers inside you. I would have…”

“You would’ve what? Told him to stop or continue?” I shout.

He’s out of bed fast, coming closer to me and I flinch.

“Do not fucking touch me. You told me I was safe, and yet you left me alone in my most vulnerable state and your brother molested me. Why should I trust anything you say?” I shout.

“Because I would never lie to you!” he shouts back.

“Then tell me, what else did he do?” I retort, my heart racing.

“He touched your hair and kissed your face, and seductively rubbed your thigh,” he says quietly, looking right at me like he has nothing to hide.

“How do you know that’s all he did?” I angrily ask.

“I made him tell me all he did before sending him to the hospital,” he says, meeting my eyes.

“The hospital?” I question.

“I gave him a beating when I threw him away from you. He shattered the TV, and the surrounding items crashed onto him,” he explains.

“He did more than he told you, see?” I say, pulling my T-shirt to show him the hickey on my neck. He leans in. “Did you do this?” I ask in anger

“No, I didn’t do that. I’m sorry, Sprinkles.” His voice is low and contrite.

“I need to speak to Jonah,” I say and his scowl is immediate.

“Why?”

“Because I want to, and I don’t need to tell you why I want to speak to my brother.” My voice is forceful, as my heart riots in anger and anxiety. I need Jonah.

“Sprinkles, please let’s talk about this.” He tries to take my hand, but I pull away fast. He’s stunned by my actions. A heavy sigh escapes him as he shakes his head. I see the frustration in him, but he steps back from me. “Please, tell me why you want to talk to Jonah,” he pleads.

I can tell it’s difficult for him to beg.

“I need to, and I don’t have to tell you anything, Bruce,” I snap and move towards the door. “Open the damn door!” I command.

He sighs and takes the key out of his pants pocket and unlocks the door. I race out of the room, not entirely sure where I’m headed, but I need to get out of here. My steps are fast. I know he’s not following me, but I feel his eyes on my back. I go down the stairs and head to the living room. I come to a halt when I see the shattered TV, broken stand, and pile of books on the floor. All the picture frames are broken too. I move slowly towards the sofa and sit. I hear footsteps and turn to see Ice and Mr. Powell. Both look at me with sad eyes, no smiles.

“I’m sorry,” Mr. Powell says.

I simply nod. David gave a bad vibe, but to do such a thing when his brother was so close was beyond bold. I get up and walk to Mr. Powell, taking his hand.

“It’s not your fault. You’ve been very kind to me, and I thank you,” I say to him before turning towards the door. I grab my shoes.

“Where are you going, Lexi?” Ice asks.

“I need some air. Have Bruce get Jonah for me,” I command. He frowns but doesn’t respond. I put my shoes on and turn to him.

“Have you seen my phone?” I ask.