Through The Pieces by Bobbi Jo Bentz Read Free Book Online

I smiled.
    "You look proud. It suits you, Claire. You really have come a long way."
    "Thanks, Buck. I feel like I can really do this."
    "I believe you can, you’re a survivor." Buck was studying me with those intense eyes.
    "Thank you. That really means a lot to me." My face warmed. I broke eye contact from him and stared at my feet.
    "Anytime, Claire."
    "Well, what do you say to crashing Annie and Matt's supper table? Besides I need to see Maggie." This made me a bit sad and excited. Sad I will be leaving Annie’s and excited because I was on my way to becoming independent.
    "Anything is better than a frozen pizza."
    With that, we descended the stairs in silence. I opened the door, this time careful to step over the icy patch. As I headed for my car, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I was being watched again. When we reached my car, I glanced over my shoulder. No dark scary monster. I must just be overtired.
    "Everything okay?"
    "Oh, yes, I felt like someone was watching us. It’s probably Echo. I caught her spying on us earlier." We both got into the car, and I started it up.
    "Claire, just be careful. I know Scott has left you alone, but sometimes men like him don't stop until they have what they want."
    Even though the statement bothered me, I replied, "I don't think I need to worry about him. He hasn't tried to call or see Maggie."
    "Just please be careful, Claire."
    Was he just saying that, or was he really worried? Either way, I would be lying if I said I didn't like it. What scared me was the way my body responded when he held me. The way my body reacted to his touch. The look in his eyes was hypnotic. My body began to heat at the thought.
    When we arrived at Annie and Matt's house, Maggie ran up to greet us and gave me a big hug. I had not realized it was almost seven o’clock. I squatted down and held her tight. "Goodness, I missed my girl."
    "I missed you too, Mommy! Are we going to the new house?"
    "Well, I was thinking we could stay here two more nights, then we can go to our house. That way I can get your room and toys set up for you. How does that sound?"
    "Okay. Love you, Mommy. Hi Buck!" Maggie went running up the stairs. I could hear her calling Rose's name. Buck went to sit down in the living room by Matt.
    "Love you too, Maggie," I called after her, but she was already out of sight and up the stairs.
    "You’re staying two more days?" Annie popped her head out from the kitchen.
    "I hope you don't mind. This way I can get the unpacking done, and I have the holiday party tomorrow night for Bookworm. Not sure why we have a holiday party when there are only two employees. I am beginning to think Echo just wants to go out."
    "Holiday party? I don't think I got an invite." Annie sounded wounded.
    "Do you want to come? I’m sure Echo won’t mind."
    "Well, I’ll have to see. Nope, I’m free. When and where?”
    "Seven thirty at Monty's. I will be here, so we can drive together."
    "Great, and if we have too much to drink, it’s only a few blocks to your new place."
    Annie heated up some leftovers for us. I went to bed soon after, exhausted from the day. As I lay in bed, I recalled how nice it was being up close to Buck. I replayed that vision in my head until I was asleep, then the visions went even further. When he held out his hand, our bodies collided. He captured my mouth with his, and I melted beneath his embrace.

Chapter 8
    Claire
    I arrived at my new place early, two coffees in hand ready to get as much unpacking done as I could. Annie was in Maggie's room getting her toys and clothes put away. I was unpacking my own boxes in my room. When I opened the closet to hang some clothing, I stared in shock at what I found. My wedding picture was taped to the wall and my face was scratched out. Nausea washed over me, knowing it could only be one person. My body shook and tears spilled down my checks. I looked around frantic. How did he get in? Why would he do this?
    "I said do you want summer stuff to