Page 191 of No Need to Run

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“What are you and Ivy doing?”

There’s a pause.

“Now?”

“Yeah.”

I’m barely holding it together as I wait for his response.

“She’s writing. I was doing some work. Why?”

“Can you meet me at the bar for a drink?” The words rush out. “Just you. I… need to talk.”

“Sure. Right now?”

“Yes.” I jingle my keys, anxious to get going.

“See you in ten.”

We both hang up without saying another word.

I grab Luna and put her in the carrier.

“I’ll be back… soon.”

She meows at me, looking betrayed.

“Don’t look at me like that.”

I shut the door before the guilt wins.

After I talk to my brother, I’ll feel better.

Maybe.

I should go home.

Even though it seems like a clear, reasonable, and responsible thought, I ignore it.

Sebastian leans back in his chair, one arm draped over the booth like he owns the place.

“So... Violet, huh?” Sebastian says, watching me over the rim of his glass.

“Yeah.” My voice is quiet.

The bartender sets two shots on the bar. I grab one and throw it back, grimacing at the burn.

The warm burn feels... comforting.

I feel my brother’s gaze boring into my profile, but I don’t look at him.

“What was that?” I make a face at the shot glass.

“Whiskey. And you’re not used to drinking that.”

I chuckle. “Isn’t that the truth?”

“So...”

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