Chapter 23

Freddy rose to his feet and pulled Hazel into his arms while staring straight at Hugo. He casually spun the ring on his finger, as though it were nothing more than an idle gesture. "My love and I just shared our heartfelt confessions, and we were about to discuss wedding plans, Mr. McCurdy. Did you barge in because you couldn't wait to celebrate with us?" He then leaned in and nuzzled Hazel's hair. "Hazel, should we invite him to the wedding?" Hazel's mind raced. The horrifying image of the bombs Freddy had mentioned flashed before her eyes. She cursed him silently. He was completely unhinged. Freddy, however, was confident that Hazel would play along with his twisted game. But just as quickly as that thought crossed his mind, everything shifted. In one swift motion, Hazel pushed him away with surprising strength. His injured leg gave out beneath him, and he stumbled back, stunned that Hazel had truly shoved him aside. He could only stand there as she turned without hesitation