“That was you last night?” My voice sounds way stronger than I feel. His eyes change, and I know it was him.

I don’t know if I’m more relieved I’m not crazy, or fucking livid that he would show up and… what? Think I’m just going to fuck him?

I put my hands on his chest to try pushing him away, but he’s strong and shirtless, a beautiful combination.

I hate him.

Hate him.

“Take it easy.”

He must get that my shock is wearing off. I go to knee him in the nuts, but he easily drops me on the cushioned chair, leaving my knee to connect with air.

“Relax.” He glares at me and runs his hands through his hair.

My eyes take in his perfect physique.

“How did you find me?” I clear my throat, swallowing back the tears. I’d rather cut off my arm than cry in front of him right now.

“I’ve known where you’ve been all along.” He sits down on the chair across from me as I force myself to think.

“Is my mom with you?” I turn my head right and left to check. If she’s here, that might send me over the edge. Did they come here together? She to torture me, and he to… what?

“Raven. Stop it. We need to talk. Things need to be said. Do you really want to do this here?” He motions to the pool area, which is starting to fill up.

“We have nothing to say. You made things pretty clear, Mr. Powers,” I snap, grabbing my drink, not caring that a good portion spills on the glass table.

“Raven, I broke it off with Rachel.” He stands, holding out his hand.

Could he seriously think I’d be stupid enough to fall for him again? Though my heart just skipped at his words, I don’t say anything. Instead, I keep swallowing the spicy tomato juice, praying the vodka will calm me enough to hide my true thoughts—that I’m fighting to hold on to all the pain he’s caused.

“Look. I know I handled everything badly—”

And that’s it—that’s where I need to stop all this. “Badly?” I stand, setting the Bloody Mary down. “You fucking destroyed me.”

He drops his hand and looks over at a newly arrived family jumping into the pool with shouts and laughter.

“I have no idea why you’re here, but stay away from me.” I grab my bag, my eyes watering, my teeth sinking into my bottom lip. And all at once, his strong arm intertwines with mine. I gasp.

“Let’s go.” He literally drags me.

Struggling to get away, I don’t care in the least if we’re making a scene. He must not either because he lifts me up and tosses me over his shoulder.