Chapter 10

Chloe looked hesitant, like she had something to say but was holding back.

Her reluctance irritated me. Just as I was about to push her to talk, there was a knock at the door.

Chloe disappeared instantly, leaving me to deal with whoever was on the other side—most likely Ricky.

God, I was exhausted.

The door was locked, but Ricky continued to knock persistently. My back pressed against the wall, and my stomach churned at the thought of sitting at the dinner table with Richard Shane.

The knocking grew louder and more impatient. “Chloe, open the door.”

I opened the door, and Ricky’s eyes scanned me. “What’s going on? Just because you don’t like my dad doesn’t mean you can be rude. If your mom were here, she wouldn’t let this slide.”

My legs felt weak as I wobbled slightly, my voice coming out low and shaky. “I don’t feel well.”

Ricky’s hand cupped my face, tilting my chin up. His dark eyes studied my pale, tired expression, his touch oddly gentle.

“You don’t look so good. Can you handle dinner?”

I shook my head. “I don’t want to eat.”

“Then rest.”

I moved to close the door, my hand on the knob when he suddenly called out, “Chloe.”

The half-sigh I’d just released caught in my throat.

He glanced over his shoulder at me, his gaze intense. “Be good, Chloe.”

I nodded stiffly and shut the door.