She Loves Me, She Loves Me Not (The American Soldier Collection 8)

“We couldn’t do that and you know it. He was getting some, and he seemed happy. We all let it go despite the signs that Ray Ann was a manipulating bitch,” Mace stated.

“Well, Ellie put her in her place. I don’t think Ray Ann will ever walk into Casper’s again,” Justice said and chuckled.

“That’s a good thing so she won’t be able to take advantage of some other soldier, or a man like Hunter who just wants to be accepted for who he is and not pitied. What if we’re wrong, Justice? What if Ellie is just being kind and sweet because she feels sorry for Hunter? If we get close to her and want to take her to our bed, will she make us choose between her or Hunter?” Seno asked.

Justice held his brother’s serious expression with one of his own.

“I sure as hell hope not. Hunter is our brother. If the woman we want can’t accept Hunter for who he is, then that woman is not the right woman for us and our family.”

Chapter 5

“What do you mean he texted you, Ellie? How many times? Why didn’t you call me immediately the first time he did?” Unc asked as she spoke into the phone and packed her bag. She threw in her bathing suit, towel, toiletries, and a change of clothes and whatever she thought she might need for Sam’s party.

She looked at Moira who could hear Unc’s loud voice through the phone.

“I’m telling you now, Unc. It’s been bothering me, even though his texts don’t really sound threatening, just innocent.”

“Innocent, my ass. That man is a monster who should still be behind bars. I’m going to call Detective Ramirez.”

“But there isn’t a reason to panic. He can’t hurt me, Unc.”

“Bullshit he can’t hurt you. I was there at the hospital after he attacked you. I was with you during your recovery along with the girls. Moira’s there. I’m sure she recalls your nightmares and screaming down the house.”

Ellie swallowed hard as Moira squeezed her shoulder and smiled.

“I know. I don’t want anything bad to happen to them and I don’t know Paul’s state of mind right now either.”

“Exactly, honey. That’s why I’m going to call Ramirez. If he wants to stop by to see you, I can meet him at your house.”

“Oh, I’m heading out with the girls. We have an event to go to and a party.”

Unc was silent a moment and she worried that he was so concerned.

“Are you sure you want to? I mean I’m not trying to make you nervous but I don’t trust Paul and his capabilities. He still wants you. He thinks he owns you.”

“I know that. We always take precautions. Besides, we’ll be at Sam’s place. He’s having a party. You know him and his brothers. There’ll be a lot of police around.”

“Well you be sure to lock up your windows and doors before you leave. Set that alarm, too.”

“I will, Unc. If Ramirez wants to talk to me, he can call my cell.”

“All right. Have fun, baby girl.”

She smiled. “I will. Bye.”

She disconnected the call and released a sigh.

Moira sat down next to her on the bed. “He’s worried just like I am.”

“I don’t want to overthink this and ponder over Paul’s actions. Yet, I feel on the defensive, and like I should be better prepared for anything. I hate this feeling. I’m tired of being scared, Moira. I’m tired of not feeling safe, of worrying about whether or not Paul might show up, or even try to hurt me again. I’m sick of not being able to trust another man, and overanalyzing every single guy I meet. I’ve been throwing all my energy into my work so that I don’t ponder so much about the what-ifs. I just want to feel safe and loved. Is it too much to ask?”

She wiped the tear from her eye before it fell as Moira pulled her into a hug.

“I don’t know what to say to help ease your mind. All I can tell you is that being cautious is not a bad thing. You should trust your gut instincts, as well as your heart. You’re a good person who sees beyond the materialistic, and even the cover or façade of a person. Paul took advantage of that, but you’re smarter now. You know the signs of control, danger, and that sensation in your gut that says it’s all wrong. There is a guy out there who will find you and love you for who you are. He will make you feel protected and loved. Hell, there may be more than just one. Maybe four.” Moira winked and Ellie shook her head.

“I don’t know what I’m going to do about that situation. I’m too fearful. I don’t even know how I’ll react if a guy kisses me. I could feel panicked, trapped, I don’t even know.”

“Well you won’t know until the time is right, and when that kiss or kisses happen, you’ll get your answer. It may be rough at first and you may get that panicked feeling, but just slow it down, pull back, and if the right man is kissing you, he’ll understand. He won’t push. He won’t force himself on you. He’ll slow things down with compassion and care. Then you’ll know, Ellie.”