When My Ex's Worst Enemy Became My Sanctuary novel Chapter 33

Carola shot a look full of resentment at the figure walking away. She knew exactly what he meant by "your person."

“Albert...” Her voice was soft, almost pleading, hoping to reel Albert’s attention back.

Albert’s face was dark. “Yeah. Let’s get on with it.”

***

In the car, Carmen was still rattled. She couldn’t believe she’d just gotten into the car of Albert’s nemesis, with Dorothea in tow.

She tried to play it cool. “Mr. Stephens, you can just drop us off downtown. We can catch a ride from there.”

Latham glanced at them in the rearview mirror. “No need. Carmen, I’ll take you home first, then drop off your friend.”

Carmen thought he didn’t know Dorothea and jumped in to introduce them. “This is Dorothea, my best friend. She actually lives closer than I do, so dropping her off first makes more sense.”

Latham’s eyes flicked to Dorothea, who looked completely caught off guard. He held back a smile. “Dorothea, what do you think?”

Dorothea finally snapped out of her daze and caught the subtle message in his tone.

“Carmen, let’s drop you off first.”

Carmen pouted. “Fine, if you insist. Thanks, Mr. Stephens.”

She was totally oblivious to the silent tension in the car, the looks passing between Dorothea and Latham.

With Latham around, Carmen kept her thoughts to herself and started texting Dorothea under the table.

[Carmen: Dorothea, I’m so sorry. I messed up! I thought I was helping but I made things worse. I promise, I won’t make decisions for you again!]

[Carmen: I had no idea Albert would act like that. He’ll do anything for Carola, it’s honestly scary!]

“Yeah, I will.”

“Or do you want to stay over tonight? My parents aren’t home, it’s no big deal,” Carmen offered, full of enthusiasm.

Dorothea could sense Latham’s reluctance, so she smiled and shook her head. “Thanks, but I’m pretty tired. I just want to go home and sleep. Maybe next time?”

“Okay, your call.”

Carmen headed inside. Latham drove a little further before pulling over at the side of the road.

Dorothea, half closing her eyes, noticed the car had stopped and sat up straighter. “What’s wrong? Did the car break down?”

Latham looked at her, his eyes intense. “Dorothea, I’m not your chauffeur. Come sit up front.”

Dorothea was at a loss for words.