Six weeks later, I pulled back onto the road leading to the gate and home. Today had been a trying day. Another session with Trina that I drove myself to, at the same time leaving Rabbit alone. I hated leaving her alone. The first time I tried, I never made it to my appointment. I had to turn around and go get her. Finally, after several attempts, I was able to make it all the way to the hospital, but only with Rabbit’s voice in my ear via the Bluetooth device I put in the truck. I was so distracted during our session; Trina gave up and sent me home. Since then, I had gotten better, but I still hated leaving Rabbit. Often she came in with me and walked around the shops in town. Eventually I was actually able to join her after and be comfortable, even to the point that we often ate a meal while we were in town, which was a huge step for me. But today, she was tired and just wanted to stay home and refused to let me cancel my appointment. I pulled up to the gates, frowning. Why were they open? Stepping on the gas, I tore up the driveway, relaxing a little when I saw the UPS truck. I pulled up and waved at Jay as he stepped back into the truck and drove away. Rabbit made her way over to my truck, smiling. “Hi,” she waved. “Did you bring the ice cream?”
I laughed, holding up the bag. “Tell the bunnies Daddy got it. Go get the bowls, Rabbit. I’ll go park the truck and be right there.”
I pulled forward into the barn and got out, glancing over at the fully restored Escort that had arrived yesterday. I hadn’t shown it to Rabbit yet, since she hadn’t been feeling well and had been rather emotional. I was waiting until the right time, when she felt a little calmer, but I knew she’d love it. The car held a sentimental value to her and I wanted her to be able to keep it. I stood looking at it for a minute, smiling as I imagined her reaction when she saw it. Leaning over, I grabbed the ice cream. This was one of Rabbit’s major constant cravings and I literally couldn’t keep enough on hand. Last week it had been Banana Fudge. This week was Black Cherry. Just as I grabbed the bag, I heard Bear start barking. The deep, angry growls were loud and ferocious, alerting me to danger. Then I heard Rabbit’s terrified cry and my blood ran cold. I dropped the bag and ran as fast as I could. I rounded the corner and stumbled at the sight before me.
A car I didn’t recognize.
Bear, aggressive in his stance and growling deeply, pacing in front of an obviously pregnant, frightened Rabbit.
Two men, not moving, by the car.
One of them—Brian James.
Chapter Forty-Three
Joshua
What the fuck was that bastard doing here?
I ran to Rabbit’s side and pulled her shaking form protectively against me. Instinctively, one hand went to her already rounded stomach. “Are you all right? Did he touch you?” I asked anxiously, my voice quiet, while keeping my eyes on the two men in front of me. “Steady, Bear, stay,” I added lowly.
“No. He hasn’t moved.” Her voice was panicked. “Why is he here? Oh God, Joshua, don’t let him … the babies …” her hand gripped the top of mine on her stomach as her voice trailed off into tears and I pulled her even closer.
“He’s not getting near you, Rabbit,” I promised.
“You’re pregnant, Elizabeth.” Brian’s voice was snide. “That was fast.”
“You shut your fucking mouth, James. Don’t you dare talk down to her,” I roared, glaring at him, not surprised to see him lower his eyes immediately.
Such a typical bully. Fucking coward.
“How the fuck did you get in here?”
“We came in as the truck was leaving.”
“Then fucking find your way out in the same fashion. Get off my property.”
They didn’t move. I stepped in front of Rabbit protectively, but they still didn’t budge. I moved forward, Bear matching my steps. “Get off my property, now,” I hissed. I could feel my fists clenching, and I knew it would only take the smallest provocation from either of them and I would start swinging. Happily.
Behind me, Rabbit spoke. “Joshua! Please … don’t touch him. No violence. Please,” she begged and the fear in her voice stopped my thoughts. I backed up slightly, but let Bear stay where he was. They were both fearful of him, judging by the rapid eye movements as they glanced between him and me. They had no way of knowing he would never attack unless I commanded him to do so, and probably, the worst he would do was knock them to the ground and growl down at them. But I let them remain fearful and ordered him to stay as I returned to Rabbit’s side, digging in my pocket for my cell phone.
“Are you a complete idiot, James? You’re breaking your restraining order just by being here,” I snarled. “I’m calling the police.”