Mr. Masters (Mr. 1)

“Yes, you did, and the more I think about it, the more I think this is a behavior pattern for you. You don’t bring up certain topics with the children because you don’t want to give them the opportunity to ask hard questions.”

I turn toward her, our eyes locked.

“You protect yourself from them, too, Julian, whether you’re aware of it or not.”

My stomach drops at her insinuation. “That’s ridiculous.”

“Is it? Can you at least think about it after I leave?”

I stare at her, and I have to say it because it's eating me alive. "I don't want you to be with anybody else."

“What are you saying?”

I frown, knowing I need to say more, but I can’t make the words leave my mouth.

Her eyes search mine. “Do you really think I’m going to go out with another man when you hurting me is all I can think about?”

My face falls. “I didn’t mean to hurt you, Bree.”

“Yet you did it anyway.”

I look to the floor, filled with shame.

“Maybe I need to learn how to work my own barriers,” she whispers.

I swallow the lump in my throat as my eyes rise to meet hers. “Do you have to go out?”

“Yes.”

Anger fills me and I glare at her. Dismissed again.

A car horn sounds outside. “My Uber is here.”

I exhale heavily.

She walks toward the door and turns back. “Just talk to me, Julian. Tell me what you want.”

I clench my jaw, and the strong urge to lash out and hurt her for leaving me takes over.

“I want a woman who isn’t needy.” I sneer.

Her sad eyes hold mine, and I want to kick myself the moment the words leave my lips.

Why did I say that? I drop my head, and then I hear the door shutting quietly behind her.

Brielle

I apply my lipstick and roll my lips in the mirror.

“Do you think I should wear the black dress or the grey?” Emerson asks, holding up the two dresses in front of her body.

I frown as I look between them. “The grey.”

I’m at Emerson’s place getting ready for our night out. I’m trying to push Julian out of my mind.

I want a woman who isn’t needy.

“I’m sorry I can’t go sightseeing tomorrow.” Em sighs. “I had no idea I had to work.”