The pounding on my door startled me out of the few peaceful minutes I’d managed to steal for myself.

I froze under the duvet, staring at the ceiling, praying maybe just he’d get tired and go away.

But no.

“Cynthia!” Xander’s deep voice thundered through the door impatiently. “You better open this damn door before I kick it down. And if I do, you’re paying for the damage.”

I groaned, dragging the pillow over my head. “Unbelievable,” I muttered into the sheets, “the ...