Page 20 of Jenna's Protector
“You can do this,” I whisper to my reflection, the words sounding hollow even to my ears. “You have to do this.” My fingers retrace the inside of my wrist, a habit I can’t seem to break.
Under UV light, the mark is as clear as day, but my skin looks unblemished in the harsh bathroom lighting. If only the scars inside could be so easily hidden.
I go through my morning routine mechanically, armoring myself in layers of clothing as if they could protect me from the memories I’ll have to face. Each tick of the clock is a countdown to the moment I’ll have to confront my past. Pulling on my shirt, I ensure the sleeve covers my wrist completely. Even though no one can see the tattoo, I feel exposed and vulnerable.
A sudden, sharp rap on my door makes me jump. Three hard, demanding knocks—unmistakably the hand of law enforcement.
My heart leaps into my throat. Carter’s punctuality is both reassuring and terrifying. My hand flies to my wrist again, rubbing frantically as if I could scrub away the memories and the invisible mark.
I take a deep breath, steeling myself, before opening the door.
SEVEN
Jenna
I open the door,Max greets me first, his tail wagging excitedly. I kneel down, grateful for the excuse to delay looking at Carter. Max’s wet nose snuffles at my hands, and I flinch slightly when he nears my wrist. Even though he can’t see or smell the tattoo, I feel exposed.
I bury my fingers in Max’s fur, feeling the soft, warm comfort of his presence. Max nudges me, his tail wagging happily.
“Sorry, buddy,” I murmur, scratching behind his ears with my other hand. “No treats today.”
Finally, I force myself to stand and face Carter.
He fills the doorway, tall and confident, his rugged, handsome face framed by the early morning light. His strong jawline, the slight stubble, and those piercing eyes that seem to see right through me—they all make my heart skip a beat.
God, he’s sexy.
Everything about him exudes strength and confidence. I wish he were here to sweep me off my feet and show me the kind of love I’ve only dreamed of. Instead, he’s here to take me to a sketch artist and relive the worst moments of my life.
His eyes, warm and concerned, meet mine, and for a moment, Ilet myself imagine a different scenario—one where he’s here to take me on a date rather than force me to relive my worst nightmares.
“Ready to go?” Carter’s voice is gentle.
I nod, not trusting my voice. As I lock my door behind me, I can’t shake the feeling that I’m locking away more than just my apartment—I’m locking away any hope of a normal life, of a future untainted by my past.
The invisible tattoo on my wrist feels like it’s burning; a constant reminder of the horrors I’m about to relive.
As we walk to his truck, Max bounds ahead, his excitement palpable. I can’t help but envy his simple joy. Carter opens the passenger door for me, his hand gently resting on my back as I climb in. His touch ignites a desire I’ve tried so hard to suppress.
The drive starts in silence, the air heavy with unspoken thoughts.
“How are you holding up?” Carter clears his throat, breaking the silence.
“I’m okay,” I lie, my voice barely above a whisper. “Just—nervous.”
“That’s understandable,” he replies gently. “If there’s anything I can do to make this easier for you, just let me know.”
“Thanks. I appreciate it.” I turn and stare out the window, needing to talk about anything other than what I’m about to do but not knowing how.
Desperate for a distraction, I take a deep breath, feeling a little of the tension ease.
“Tell me about Max. How long have you had him?”
“Max has been with me for about five years.” Carter’s face lights up, and he glances at Max in the rearview mirror. “He’s my partner in more ways than one.”
Max barks softly as if acknowledging the praise, and I can’t help but smile.
“He’s a good dog.”