Chapter 9 That last threat of his sent a sharp bolt of anger straight through me.] Tanner was so sure I was still wrapped around his finger that he thought throwing Ayla in my face would actually work.] But I was leaving the country. Why would I care what he did with her anymore? two g At 7 AM sharp the next morning, I dragged two heavy suitcases down the stairs, hailed a cab, and headed to the airport.[] Each case weighed a solid fifty pounds-the kind of thing Tanner always used to carry for me. I used to think I couldn't manage without him. But now I know: I can.[] I did.[] Life without Tanner? Bring it on.[] With twenty minutes until boarding, my phone buzzed-unknown number. It was Tanner, calling from Tyler's phone.]] "Alright, princess. Come down. I got you breakfast." He sounded casual, almost amused. "Dining hall's closed. If you don't come get this, you're gonna starve."]] "I'm not at the dorm," I said, voice flat.] "Then where are you?"] "The airport."]] Silence. "Addie. Did you hear anything I said yesterday?"[] "Yeah. You and Ayla are getting real close. Congrats. Hope you two are happy."[] He let out a harsh, disbelieving laugh.] "You know what? Fine. Absolutely fucking fine."[] I could almost hear his jaw tightening. "I swear to god-if I ever beg for you again, I'm a damn dog."[] I didn't answer. In the background, Tyler muttered:[] "Bro, she's beyond extra."] Then, louder: "Tanner, let's go. Ayla's waiting. You promised her those macarons, remember?"[ ] Chapter 9 Tanner took an audible breath. "Yeah. Whatever."[ ] Right before he ended the call, I said calmly:] "Call me again, and I'll change my number."] give a He snorted. "Like I give a shit."]] (0) ( 0 ) A to Untauchable