“No more of this. None of this was your fault. We can’t keep thinking that way. Just focus on getting better,” I said. “And when you get out, we’ll start a new life together. Get you the help you need, okay?”

She nodded but said nothing else.

That was fine by me.

I had all I needed.

33

WARREN

“I don’t really think that’s how this works, but… that girl has been through so much. I’ll see what I can do,” the doctor said. He was kind and obviously worried about Addison by how he was constantly outside the door, waiting for her to come out.

“What did you say your name was?”

“Warren King,” I replied, taking out my wallet to hand him my card. His eyes widened when he caught sight of the Black Silk Auction logo.

His gaze shot back up to mine, insinuating. It wasn’t hard to make the connection between Addi and me.

“Are you… Did she…?”

“Even if she did, we pride ourselves on confidentiality, so I wouldn’t tell you.”

There was nothing wrong or shameful in what she did—what we did—but I knew she wouldn’t want everyone knowing.

His Adam’s apple bobbed as he swallowed.

“Okay…”

Meaning he didn’t want to say anything that would cause some sort of conflict.

He was a good man. I was glad that Addi had him as a doctor.

“You’re welcome to come,” I said with a slight smile. “After you pass the background check, that is.”

He straightened his head, jerking back, and hastily put the card into his pocket, his eyes searching back and forth to make sure no one saw.

“Oh no; it’s not my thing.”

Liar. His interest was obvious.

“Think about it.”

“I’ll call you if there’s an issue with the payment,” he said.

Both our heads swiveled to the door as Addi stepped outside.

Her shoulders were straight, her head high, but there was an air of sadness around her. She was trying so hard to keep it together. Even as her eyes reddened with the effort it took to hold back the tears, she still did.

She’s stronger than I ever thought.

Her mother got on my nerves. How could she do this? I had wondered how the house I saved for them ended up with a lien on it, but now I knew.

I should have just bought it for them. Something I’d rectify immediately. But first, Addi.

She looked at the doctor and gave him an almost embarrassed smile.

“About the insurance⁠—”

“Focus on your mom,” he said, raising his hand to stop her. “That’s what’s important.”

When she looked down, tears welling in her eyes again, he gave me a meaningful look. Both of us, while so very different, wanted to help Addi in any way we could.