I winced at how hard I’d been on Crosby. How wrong I’d been. He was nothing like Grant, growing up in privilege and believing the world owed him everything simply because he existed. Believing there were no consequences to his actions. Crosby might live his life on his own unique terms, but he showed up for those who were important to him. Always.

“He’s a good man.”

Caelyn’s hands flew to her mouth. “Holy snickerdoodles! You’re sleeping with him.”

My cheeks heated, and I couldn’t meet Caelyn’s gaze. And that was all Bell needed for confirmation. “I knew it! Pay up, Caelyn.”

My mouth fell open. “You bet on whether I’d have sex with Crosby?”

Bell shook her head. “No, we both thought you’d eventually at least hate-bang each other. We bet on when. I had by the end of the year.”

Caelyn pouted. “I thought it would take a little longer. Your restraint is legendary. Dang it, now I’m out twenty bucks.”

“You’re both assholes. I think it’s time for me to put an ad out for some new friends.”

Bell and Caelyn both pounced, wrapping me in one of those group hugs we hadn’t had in far too long. I let out an exaggerated groan, but really, I loved it.

“Suck it up, buttercup. You’re stuck with us.” Bell grabbed my side in an especially ticklish spot.

Caelyn squeezed me even harder. “Just try and get rid of us.”

“I could always file a restraining order.”

Bell pulled back slightly. “Nah. I’ve got Sheriff Raines in my back pocket. He’d never let it go through.”

A throat cleared from the doorway, and I looked up to see Ford with an amused smile on his face. “As adorable as this is, we have to get going if we don’t want to be late. I’m guessing being late when you’re called to testify wouldn’t be a good thing.”

All the warmth that had filled me fled in an instant. It was time. There was no avoiding Grant any longer. A small shudder ran through me at the memory of his rage in the parking lot. His threats.

“You’re stronger than they’ll ever be,” Bell whispered in my ear.

Caelyn slipped her hand into mine. “And you’re not alone.”

I pressed my lips together and nodded. “Let’s do this.”