Chapter 84

Emily's POV The cold hospital corridor felt like it stretched on forever as I walked away to answer Reuben's call. His name flashing on my screen used to bring a smile to my face. But since I found out that he was sneaking on my friend with Ethan, I somehow began to agree with the Frost family that he was up to no good. Now, his call only made my stomach twist with unease. I pressed the phone to my ear, bracing myself. “Reuben,” I said softly. “What’s up?” His voice, casual and unconcerned, came through the line. “Hey, babe. So, uh, can you send me some money? I… kinda ran out.” For a moment, I was silent, the words sinking in. My chest tightened, not with surprise—I’d heard this request too many times before—but with a growing ache. “Money?” I repeated, my voice steady despite the storm brewing inside me. “Is that all I am to you, Reuben? A purse you can call whenever you need to refill?” “Come on, Emily,” he replied, a hint of irritation creeping into his tone. “Don’t say it like tha