Page 108 of Saved By A Dark Billionaire
"I mean, why are you hurt? Who hit you?" I asked her, no longer beating around the bush.
"What are you talking about?" She acted confused, as if I were speaking another language.
"I know that flinch. I've seen that flinch. You're hurt here." I poked at the spot I was sure she was hurt at, to make my point. She flinched, sucking air in through her teeth.
"I didn't realize you were so attentive, Liv," she complained as she sighed. "It's him again. I hate to admit it, but I went back to him. He swore he wouldn't do it again, and I stupidly believed him. This is what I get for it."
"Lisa, you're not punishing yourself like this. We're getting you treated, and then you're telling me where this sack of shit lives." I spoke firmly, making sure Lisa realized this was happening whether she wanted it to or not.
Lisa showed me her wounds in the bathroom. She had a ton of bruises around her chest. Like all over her torso, with varying colors. It let me know this had been going on this entire time. Some of the bruises had started to heal, while others were starting to darken. It made my stomach flip at the sight. I felt transported back to when I was a child and saw mom littered in her own bruises.
"Where is he, Lisa?" I asked her through gritted teeth.
"He's at my place. He won't leave, Liv. He said he'd kill himself if I left him. He won't let me have anyone over anymore," Lisa said, seeming so scared as she spoke.
"Don't worry, Lisa. After tonight he won't be in your hair any longer."
Olive:Need the coward special please.
I texted Davis and Carter. They had come up with code names for the beatings they have, and the coward special was reserved for abusive men.
Adopted Dad:I swear I'll kill that kid if he's touched you.
Davis replied almost immediately. I probably should have been more clear.
Olive:Not Lucas, not for me.
I quickly responded, trying not to get Lucas killed.
Shiny Man:We'll be there Twinkle Toes.
Carter replied.
Adopted Dad:Don't give me a heart attack like that. Send me the place and time. We've got your back.
"We're taking care of this tonight, Lisa. Let's go."
"Wait! Please don't tell Lucas!" She grabbed my wrist, looking ready to burst into tears.
"I am not keeping this from him, Lisa, but I'll give you the chance to tell him yourself. You made a mistake and hopefully it's not one you'll repeat. We're here for you and you don't need to be scared to ask us for help." I pulled her in for a hug, trying to show her all my support. "You're strong too, Lisa, so stop acting like you're not."
I didn't give her a chance to argue as I pulled us out of the bathroom and into the booming music. I dragged her over to the group, poking Lucas on the shoulder. I whispered in his ear to go talk to Lisa and to be supportive. Lisa pulled him away from the group, and I watched them while they talked.
"What's going on?" Leo asked me first.
"I'll let Lisa tell you, but Lucas and I are about to go. I have some business I need to take care of."
"Um, okay?" Leo was confused, but he didn't press the matter.
I watched Lucas hug his sister tightly as she cried. I was glad to see him hold her and not scold her. She doesn't need that right now. She needs love and support. They walked over to the group after a moment.
"We'll see you guys later. I'm stealing this one away." I told them all, grabbing Lucas’ hand and marching off.
"Where are we going Rose?" He asked, surprised.
"You're taking me to go beat that sorry sack of shit to an inch of his life. Davis and Carter will meet us there. I am sure you're angry too, but let me show him that a woman can fight back."
Lucas pulled me back, and at first I assumed it was to stop me, but when I saw his smiling face I knew that wasn't the case. He leaned down and kissed me so lovingly, making me melt into him like butter.
