Shocked and taken aback, Cory’s face twists with jealousy as he snaps, “And who the hell are you?”

The room is now watching, and the air is thick with anticipation while my embarrassment peaks, but before I can sink into the floor, the unhinged stranger clutches my waist tighter, grounding me in his confidence.

He doesn’t even flinch. His voice is calm, but there’s an edge to it—a challenge. “I’m her date.”

Oh, God. A scene. We’re causing a scene. I’m never going to get a job now. Izzy, Serena, and Kiera slowly make their way over while onlookers pretend not to be nosy.

“Date, huh?” Cory sneers, his arrogance on high. “Well, I’m the only man Kerry’s ever dated, so welcome to the club. I’m also the school Superintendent. So, if you ever need a job, just let me know. Kerry knows all about needing work. Isn’t that right, babe?” He winks and then reaches for me. His fingers aim for my face, but I step back and dodge his touch.

I want to scream. No, I want to cry, and this is precisely how Cory wants me to feel—embarrassed, worthless, helpless, and beneath him. I shrink back, my heart hammering. But before I can crumble, the stranger’s hold tightens, pulling me closer, and I’m suddenly reminded of the woman I am, the woman I worked so hard to rediscover over the years.

Before I can process the humiliation, his grip tightens. His voice is low but firm, slicing through Cory’s arrogance like a blade. “We’re good over here, Superintendent. My woman doesn’t want or need anything,” He declares with authority. “Isn’t that right, babe?”

Oh, he’s good.

I nod, emboldened by his firm hold. “That’s right. I can take care of myself, but it’s nice having an amazing man who wants to give me the world.” My gaze snaps to Cory, and I flash him a sweet, venom-laced smile. “And by the way, I know I’m irresistible and all, but don’t ever try to touch me again.”

The stranger’s hand slides up my side, a subtle, possessive gesture that sends a shiver rippling through me. His touch is… distracting—like, really distracting. For a fleeting moment, I forget Cory’s even here until he clears his throat, trying to reclaim the attention he craves.

“So,” Cory sneers, his gaze darting between us, “when did this little… thing start? And what’s your name, anyway? We’re a tight-knit family here in Beverly Mills-Greer. You’re clearly new to town.”

Oh God. My heart slams against my ribs. I don’t even know this man’s name. This is bad—really bad. I catch Izzy’s wide-eyed panic from across the room, silently screaming, Say something! But my brain has left the building.