Her mother chimed in, voice sharp as a whip. “Animal. Thank God my daughter didn’t end up with you. Always claiming you treat her well, and yet you’ve been secretly hoarding money behind her back.”
I ignored them and turned to the officers. “Can I leave now?”
“Leave? Not until you get on your knees and apologize to Dwayne,” Penelope snapped.
“Enough,” one of the officers intervened. “The money’s been paid. Let’s just end this here.”
“End it? He was the one who threw the first punch!” Penelope shouted. “If he doesn’t kneel and apologize, I’ll push for the harshest punishment.”
“Go get the injury checked first,” the officer replied calmly. “If it qualifies as serious, we’ll take him in.”
But we all knew Dwayne’s bruises didn’t amount to much. Helpless, Penelope just glared at me, eyes full of venom. “Pack your things and get out of here. I don’t want to see your face again.”
“I’ll move out,” I said evenly, “but you and I still have unfinished business to settle.”
“Officer, did you hear that? He’s threatening my daughter again,” her mother barked.