Ride It

Chapter 25

Beatrice's POV

"What the fuck is going on here?" Jason's angry voice slices through my pretend bravado as he swings the door open.

I tense when our eyes meet, and for a second I see a flash of confusion before rage overtakes it. He spots Bentley and the others behind me and narrows his eyes.

"What the fuck are you doing at my house?" He growls, his hold on the door threatening to crack the wooden frame.

I take a deep breath when I feel Bentley's hand on my waist. I step up and lift my chin. Showing weakness does nothing, Bea. Stand tall.

"I'm here to collect my things. They are here to help me move them." I gesture to Bentley, Jack, Cash and the officer who came in case anything happens.

He throws his head back and barks a laugh. "I don't have shit in here for a whore like you."

I don't flinch. Fortunately, his words don't affect me anymore.

"My clothes, my shoes, my jewelry, all of which you did not buy, so they are my property. If you want me to file for theft, I'd be glad to. This officer here should know the procedure very well." I smile amicably, knowing it'll piss him off even more.

I know Jason. He's the type to swing the moment the opportunity arises, so of course I'll be afraid. Months of abuse don't just disappear, but knowing that I have so many people around me assures me that I'm not alone. That's all the protection I need.

"You... ha! Fine. Take your shit and go. Taking in a bitch like you was a disgrace to my family." He pops the door open and allows us entry into the house.

Bentley snorts. "Big words for such a little man."

"Watch it, Langston. I never said you could come into my house." Jason places a hand on Bentley's chest to block him, halting the others.

I look back anxiously as Jason tilts his head in my direction. "Just her. Y'all can wait outside."

Bentley knocks his hand away and grits his teeth. "You think we're that stupid? If we stay here, so will you."

"The lady clearly isn't comfortable around you. This is for her safety. Right, Officer Hudson?" Cash turns to the officer expectantly.

The officer nods, places a hand on his waist where his gun is, and says. "They're right, sir. We've heard about your abusive tendencies. There are scars on the ma'am's back to prove it. Normally we'd take you in, but she doesn't want to press charges. Don't make this hard on yourself."

Jason stares hard at the officer and asks. "Is this how you guys want to do this?"

The officer shrugs. "I'm just doing my job. Please, step aside."

Jason glances at them, then back at me before cursing. "Fuck. Fine. Whatever. Hurry the fuck up. I don't have time for this shit."

I sigh in relief and nod. "I'll be quick."

I start walking down the familiar hall and towards the stairs leading into my old bedroom. Jason's office is on the first floor. I'll need to sneak down while he's distracted to look around.

I glance at Bentley, who notices my gaze. He turns to Jason. "We need to talk."

"Fuck off," is Jason's kind reply.

Cash chuckles and pats both men on their shoulders. "Now, now, gentlemen. Let's be civil in front of the lady. You," his grip tightens on Jason's shoulder. "We have some questions. Let's go sit in the living room and wait for Bea to bring her things down."