UntilAshlyn

AuroraRoseReynolds

KindleEdition

CoverandCoverdesignbySaraEirew

Designs:FormattedbyBBeBooks

includingphotocopying,recording,orbyanyinformationstorageandretrievalsystem,withoutpermissioninwriting.

Thisisaworkoffiction.Names,characters,placesandincidentsaretheproductoftheauthor’simaginationorareusedfactiously,and

anyresemblancetoanyactualpersonsorlivingordead,eventsorlocalsareentirelycoincidental.

Theauthoracknowledgesthetrademarkstatusandtrademarkownersofvariousproductsreferencedinthisworkoffiction,whichhave

beenusedwithoutpermission.Thepublication/Useofthesetrademarksisnotauthorized,associatedwith,orsponsoredbythetrademark

owner.

Allrightsreserved.

Dedication

ToeverysinglepersonthatbelievesintheBOOM

UntilAshlyn

Prologue

“L

ARGE

ICED

COFFEE

, cream and two sugars.” I smile at Melissa behind the counter of my favorite

coffeeshopandpullcashoutofmypurseasshetypesmyorderintothecomputer.

“Anythingelse,Ash?”Shelooksup,andItrytofightit,butIcan’t.
“Twocakepops,bothchocolate.Oh,andacranberryscone.”
“Gotit.”Shegrins,knowingme,sinceIcomeinandorderthesamethingalmosteveryday,unless

it’sfall—thenIalwaysgoforsomethingpumpkin.“Youcanpickitupattheendofthecounter.”

“Thanks.”Igiveheronelastsmileandtuckthechangeintothetipjarinfrontofmethenmake

mywaydownthelinetowait.Pullingoutmycellphone,Itypeamessagebacktomydadlettinghim
knowI’llbeoverafterwork.

“Coffeeblack,onesugar.”Adeepmalevoiceslidesovereveryinchofmeandmyheadlifts.The

momentIspotthecommanderofthatvoice,mybodyfreezes.I’veseenthousandsofgood-looking
meninmylife,butwithlong,dark-blondhair,sun-kissedskin,broadshoulderscoveredinatailored
suitjacket,aslimwaist,andlong,thicklegsencasedinslacks,Iknowhe’sthemostspectacular.

“Ash… Ashlyn?” Turning my head and coming out of my daze, I find my order in front of me

andDane,Melissa’shusband,staringatmewithconcern.“Areyouokay?”

Oh,God.Iprobablylooklikeanidiot.“Yeah,sorry.Ispacedout.”Ismile,takingmydrinkand

thebagholdingmygoodies,thenreachoverandgrabastraw.

“Noproblem.”HegrinsthenIfeelheathitmyside,andmyeyestravelupandup,untilIfindthe

objectofmysuddenfascinationlookingdownatmethroughcrystal-blueeyes.

“Hi,”Ibreathe,feelingmyselfinvoluntarilyleantowardhim.Hiseyesscanmyfaceandhelifts

hischineversoslightlybeforeturningbacktothecounter.

Feeling like a total moron, I book it out of the coffee shop and down two doors to the dental

officeIworkat,unlockingthedoorandturningonthelightsasIenter.Headingtothereceptiondesk,
IsetmycoffeedownonmydeskalongwithmybagofgoodiesandstowmypurseasIstartupthe
computer.

“Hey,”IgreetGregoryasthechimesoundsandhestepsintotheoffice.
“Hey,darlin’.”Hesmiles,takingoffhishatandsuitjacket.“Weneedtohaveaquickchat.”
“Sure,” I agree as he walks past me, back toward his office, and I follow with my coffee while

shovingawholeentirecakepopintomymouth,chewingquickly.

“I’vegotsomenews.”
“Okay.”Itakeaseat,watchinghimtuckhiscoatawayandputonascrubjacketthatisinmajor

needofironing.

“Ifoundsomeonetobuymypractice.”
“That’s great.” I smile, feeling relieved. Gregory isn’t as young as he used to be, and we are

constantlylosingpatients.Peoplearefearfulofhim,withhisthickglasses,shakyhands,andhisold
schoolattitudethatnoonereallyneedstobenumbedbeforeaprocedure.

“He’sgoingtobeheresoon.Ijustwantedtogiveyouaheadsup.”
“Thanks,Greg.”
“YouknowIadoreyou,darlin’.”

“I know,” I concur. “The feeling is mutual.” I smile, and he smiles back then looks toward the

doorwhenthechimesignalssomeonecamein.

“That’sprobablyhim,”hemumbles,buttoningthejacketup.
“Doyouwantmetosendhimback?”
“Yep, business as usual. He can talk while I get stuff set up,” he says, and I nod then head out

towardthefrontoftheoffice.AssoonasIreachthereceptiondesk,thesmileonmyfaceslidesaway
and my steps falter. The guy from the coffee shop is standing with his hands on his hips, looking
aroundthereceptionareawithalookonhisfacethatsaysitdoesn’tmeethisstandards.Takinginhis
expressionIcan’tsayIblamehimforhisdistaste.Thepaintispeelinginspotsandthefurnitureis
wornandoutdated.Thewholeofficeneedsanupdate.

“Hi,canIhelpyou?”Iask,andheturnsatthesoundofmyvoice.AssoonashiseyesmeetmineI

seesomethingflashbehindhisgaze,butit’sgonebeforeIcanreadit.

“I’mheretoseeGregory.Heshouldbeexpectingme.”
Oh,God.Thiscannotbehappening.
“He’sintheback.Letmetakeyoutohim.”
“Youare?”heasks,raisingabrow.
“Oh,”Iletoutashortlaughfilledwithnervousness,“Ashlyn.”Istickoutmyhandandhiseyes

drop to it before his fingers wrap around mine. A zing surges through my body, leaving me
paralyzed.

“Dillon.”
“Huh?”Ibreathe,staringathimoncemore.
“I’mDillon.”
“Right.”Itugmyhandfree,shakingitout,thenturnonmyheels,hopinghe’sfollowingme,but

I’mtooafraidtocheck.OnceIreachGregory’soffice,Ipoint.“He’srightinthere.”Iwaitforhimto
enterthenreachinandclosethedoor,wonderingwhatthehelliswrongwithme.

“D

ARLIN

’,D

ILLON

WOULD

liketohaveawordwithyou,”Gregorysays,andIlookupfromJane,whois

havingherteethcleaned,tofindhimstandinginthedoorwayandpullmymaskdown.

“Now?”
“Itwon’ttakelong.I’lltakeoverforyouuntilyougetback.”
“Sure.”IgiveJane’sshoulderareassuringsqueezewhenhereyesgetbigandfillwithfear.“I’ll

berightback.”Islipoffmygloves,tossingtheminthetrash,thentakeoffmymaskandheadpast
Gregoryanddownthehalltohisoffice,findingDillonleaningagainstthedesk.

“Gregorysaidyouwantedtospeakwithme?”
“Ido.Haveaseat.”Henodstowardoneofthechairs.Ireallywanttosaysomethingabouthim

beingbossy,butinstead,Imovetothechairandsitwithmyhandsfoldedinmylap.

“Iunderstandyou’vebeenworkinghereforawhile.”
“Ihave,”Iconfirmwithanodashecrosseshisarmsoverhismassivechest.
“Withmetakingover,thingsaroundherearegoingtochange.”
“Good,” I state, really meaning it. This office needs change if it’s going to last much longer.

Therearedentalofficespoppingupallthetime,takingbusinessawayfromus.

“Ifyouwanttokeepyourcurrentposition,I’mgoingtoneedtore-interviewyou.”
“That’sfine.”
Hiseyesscanthelengthofmeslowly,makingmyskinfeelsuddenlytoohotandtootight.“Idon’t

needprettyobjectsaroundtolookat.Ineedsomeonewhoknowswhatthey’redoingworkingwith

me,andIneedtomakesureyouunderstandthat.”Blinking,IstareathimwonderingifIheardhim
correctly. “I’ll be in town this week. Hopefully that will be enough time for you to get a resume
together.”

“Absolutely,”Igritout,fakingasmilethatsaysIreallywanttotakehisheadoffandusemyfour-

inchheelsassoccercleats.

“Great,I’llcalltheofficeandscheduleatimeforustomeet.”
“Great,”Iagree,standing.“Isthereanythingelse?”
“Notatthistime,”hemumbles,watchingmeclosely.
“Itwasnicemeetingyou,”Ilie,whileplottinghisuntimelydeathinmyhead.
“Youtoo.”Heliftshischin,andIturnandwalkoutthedoor,wonderingwhythehellIthoughthe

wasattractivewhenhe’sobviouslyamajordick.

Chapter1

Ashlyn

“H

,”Igreet,tuckingmyphonebetweenmyearandshoulderasIshoveanotherdressand

matchingheelsintomysuitcase.IsmilewhileIdo,becauseDillonwilllikelyfliphislidwhenhesees
mychoicesinattirefortheweekend,butthereisnotonedamnthinghecandoaboutitsincewewon’t
beintheoffice.Sotechnically,hisstupidrulesdon’tapply.

“Areyouallpacked?”
“Almost,”Isigh,lookingattheclockandrealizingIonlyhavetenminutestofinishbeforemy

cabissettoarrive.Iwasn’tplanningongoingtoVegasforthedentalconvention,butDilloninsisted
heneededmewithhim,andlikeanidiot,Iagreed.

“IsDillonpickingyouup?”
“No,I’mmeetinghimthere.Hisflightleftacouplehoursago.”
“Oh.”Sheletsoutadefeatedbreath.“Isitjustyouandhimgoing?”
“Ihopeso.IsweariftheWickedWitchshowsup,I’llsellheronthestriptothehighestbidder,or

paysomeonetotakeherouttothedesertanddropheroff,”Igrumble,diggingundermybedformy
tickler—justincaseofanemergency.

“Callmeifyouneedanalibi.”Shelaughs,andIsmile,shakingmyhead,becauseIknowshe’snot

lying;shewouldfindawaytobemyalibiifsomethinghappened.

“I’llcall,”Imutter,headingtothebathroomsoIcangathermyshowersupplies.
“Dillon’ssonice,”shesaysquietly,andIgritmyteeth.
Dillon is annoying, bossy, and… fine, he can be nice sometimes. Plus, he’s uber-hot, but I hate

him.Okay,Idon’thatehim…butIreally,reallywantto.

“Howlongareyougoingtobegonefor?”shequestions,breakingintomyinternalrant.
“Justfourdays.MyflightgetsbackMondaynightaroundseven.”
“Promiseyou’llcalleverydayandcheckin.”
“I’llcallortext,”Iagree,grabbingmycosmeticscasefromunderthebathroomcupboard,filling

itwithallofmymakeup.

“Pleasetryandhavesomefunwhileyou’rethere.MakeDillontakeyououttoanicedinneror

dancing.”

Snorting,Imutter,“Sure,Mom.Iloveyou.I’llmessagewhenIland.”
“Okay,honey,anddon’tforgetyourdadandIleaveMondayforFloridaandwe’llbegonefor

threeweeks.”

“Ihaven’tforgotten.Havefun,kissGrandmaandGrandpa,andtellDadIlovehim.”
“Willdo,”shepromisessoftlybeforeIhangupandshovemycellintomybackpocket.Looking

attheclockIletoutaquietcurse,gettingmyassingeartofinishpackingsoIdon’tmissmyflight.

RAGGING

BAG

behind me toward the reception desk, I’m stunned by how many people are here

wearing nametags stating they’re attending the dental convention. Dillon mentioned this weekend is

oneofthelargestgatheringsofdentistsintheUnitedStates,butsheesh,thisiscrazy.Finallymakingit
tothefrontoftheline,Ismileatthecutiebehindthedesk.

“HowcanIhelpyou,gorgeous?”heinquiresonceI’mclose,andIsetmypurseonthecounter

andpulloutmyID,handingitovertohim.

“Hi,Ihaveareservation.”Iyawn,coveringmymouthwhileIlistentothesoundofslotmachines

goingoffinthedistance.Ilovetheslots—orpennyslotstobeexact,sinceI’mtoochickentoplaythe
realones.

“I’msorry,butthereisnoreservationunderyourname.Areyousureyou’restayingwithus?”he

asks,handingmebackmyID,andIfrown.

“I’mpositive.Itmaybeundermyboss’name,DillonKeck.Hemadethereservations,”Isay,and

hestartstotypeagainthensmiles.

“Gotit.IseeherethatMr.Keckhasalreadycheckedinandrequestedwegiveyouyourownkey

tothesuiteuponarrival.”

“Uh… what?” I blurt, feeling something close to dread fill my stomach. “Are you saying he’s

stayinginthatroomtoo?”

“Yes,it’sasuitewithtwokings.”
“Idon’tcarehowmanykingsareintheroom.It’soneroom.Right?”Ipanic,leaninghalfover

thecounter,tryingtoseehiscomputerscreen.“Pleasetellmeyouhaveanotherroomavailable?”

“I’msorry,butwe’recompletelybooked.Thisisoneofourbusiestweekendsoftheyear.”
“Ofcourseitis.”Ishakemyhead.“Canyourecommendanotherhotelnearby?”
“Sorry,butIreallydoubtanywhereelsehasanopening.”
“Oh man… oh man,” I breathe, squeezing my eyes closed. “It’s not a big deal. You can share a

room with him. You’re an adult, and it’s not like you even like him, right?” I whisper, balling my
handsintofists.

“Um,sodoyouwantmetogetyouyourkey?”Openingmyeyes,Inodonceandhisfacesoftens.

“Calldownandcheck.Sometimeswehavepeoplecallofftheirreservationslastminute.Younever
know.Somethingmightopenupbetweentonightandtomorrow.”

“Sure,I’llcall,”Iagree,wonderingwhatthehellIdidtodeservethiskindofkarmaasIwaitthere

fortheroomkey.

Standinginthehalloutsidethedoortoourroomtenminuteslater,Ipausewithmykeycardinmy

hand,notsureifIshouldknockorjustgoin.IseriouslycannotbelieveDillonbookedusinaroom
together.Actually,Icanbelieveit,becauseIthinkhegetsoffonannoyingme.

“Screwit.It’smyroomtoo,”Imuttertomyself,shovingthekeyintothecardreader,watchingthe

lightturngreen.Pushingdownonthehandle,Iturn,usingmyshouldertoholdthedooropenwhileI
drag my suitcase into the room, fighting with its weight as the door closes, trapping it half way
through.

“Shit!”
Turningmyhead,IlookovermyshoulderandalmostfallonmyasswhenmyeyesfindDillon

standing in the middle of the room, completely naked, with a pair of boxers in his hand. His once
longhairnowshortandwet,andatattooIdidn’tknowhehadalonghismuscledribsonhisside.

“Oh,myGod,”Ibreathe,turningquicklywhileattemptingtoshovemysuitcasebackoutofthe

room.ItotallydidnotneedtoknowDillonlookshotterwithoutclothesthanwhatmymindhadmade
up, and believe me—my mind had unfortunately tormented me with thoughts of him naked many
times.

“Christ,you’reamess,”ismutteredfrombehindmewhileaverystrongarmwrapsaroundmy

waist,liftingmeoffmyfeet,andmysuitcaseistuggedfrommygrasp.BeforeIknowit,mysuitcase
andIarebothintheroomandthedoorcloseswithasofthiss,trappingmeinside.

“Please tell me you’re not still naked,” I whimper, squeezing my eyes closed, feeling his arm

releasemeandhisheatleavemyback.

“I’mnotnaked.”
Opening my eyes, I close them again when I see he’s only got on a pair of form-fitting black

boxersandnothingelse.“Putsomeclotheson.”

“Don’ttellmeyou’veneverseenanakedmanbefore.”Hechuckles,andthesoundofhislaughter

makesmyteethgrindandmyhandsdroptomysides.

“Idon’twanttoseeyounaked.”Iglareathimwhilehebuttonsupapairofdarkslacksthatfithim

perfectly.

“Youcouldhaveavoidedallofthisifyouhadknocked.”
“Really?”Iraiseabrow.“Youcouldhave‘avoidedallthis,’”Imakeairquotes,“andgottenmea

separateroom.”

“They messed up the reservation.” He shrugs like it’s no big deal, and I feel my eyes narrow

further.

“Youshouldhavecalledtotellmethat,soIcouldhave—”
“Youwould have avoidedcoming,” he cutsme off. “If youknew we weresharing a room, you

wouldhavefoundanexcuse,andIneedyouwithmethisweekend.”

“Whatever,” I grumble, knowing he’s right. I would have canceled the trip if I knew we were

sharingaroom,evenknowingthatbeinghereisagreatwaytobuildconnectionswithotherdentists.
Especially, if I want to open my own practice in the future. “We need to set a few ground rules.” I
cross my arms over my chest while I watch him walk across the room toward the bed near the
window.

“Later.” He picks up a dark-blue, almost black, dress shirt and starts to put it on, which is

unfortunate,becausenowthatI’veseenhimshirtless,I’mthinkingheshouldnevercoverupagain.

“No,now,”Igrowl,annoyedwithmyselfforbeingattractedtothedick.
“Later.” He holds my glare. “Right now, you need to get dressed. We have reservations in forty

minutes.”Hetakesaseatonthesideofthebedandstartstoputonhisshoes.

“What?”Ilookattheclockonthewall.It’saftersevenatnightandI’mexhausted.AllIwanttodo

isclimbintobed,orderroomservice,andwatchsomebadTV.

“We have a reservation in forty minutes,” he repeats, then stands. “The restaurant is twenty

minutesaway,soyouhavetwentyminutestogetready,unlessyouwanttowearthat.”Hemotionsto
mysweats,flip-flops,andhoodie.“Isuggestyouchange.”

“Ihateyou.”
“Soyousay,”hesays,justbarelyloudenoughformetohear,ashegoestothedresser,picking

uphiswatchandputtingiton.

“WhatdidIdotodeservethis?”Ishakemyhead,pullingoutmyhairtieandrunningmyfingers

throughmyknottedhair.

“Youmaywanttohurry.”
Holdinghiseyesforaminute,Igiveupmyglarethendragmysuitcasetothemiddleoftheroom

andunzipit.Afterpullingoutoneofmyfavorite“goingout”outfitsalongwithmymakeupbag,Igo
to the bathroom and try to slam the door closed, but it’s on one of those thingies that prevents me
fromdoingthat,whichpissesmeoffevenmore.

“Stupiddoor.Stupiddick,”Imutteroncethedoorisclosed,thengettoworkonmakingmyself

lookhalfwaydecent.

Twentyminuteslater,Ilookatmyrefectionandleanforward,puttingmyfaceaninchfromthe

mirror,andusemydark-redlipstickforthefinaltouchonmydramaticmakeuplook.SinceIdidn’t
havetimetodoanythingwithmyhair,Ibrusheditoutandputitupinabunontopofmyheadthen
pulled out a few pieces to frame my face. Looking at my now blonde hair, I smile. I wasn’t sure I
would like having blonde hair but Kim insisted it would look great on me, and she wasn’t wrong.
Standing back, I place my hands on my hips and take myself in. My black sleeveless-top, with
trianglescutoutofthecenterofthechestandsides,issexybutclassy,andmyredskin-tightpencil
skirt,withitsslitupthethigh,showsoffjustenoughskintodrawattentionwhileleavingeverything
totheimagination.

Slippingonmyblack,pointed-toe,four-inchpumps,Iopenthedoortothebathroom,andmutter

towardwhereIknowDillonissitting,“Letmejustchangemypurseandwecango.”

“You’renotwearingthat.”
“Pardon?”Iask,pausinginmysquattedpositioninfrontofmyopensuitcasetolookathim.
“You’renotwearingthatoutfit.Gochange.”
“I’mnotchanging.”Istand,movingtothedesksoIcantransferwhatIneedfrommybagtomy

clutch. Hearing no reply, my eyes move to where he’s sitting on the edge of the bed, and I feel my
skinwarmupandbutterfliestakeoffinmystomachasoureyeslockandhisdarken.

Lickingmylipsthathavesuddenlygonedry,hiseyesdroptomymouthandhisjawclenches.“I’ll

meetyoudownstairs.”Hestandsabruptlyandmovespastmeouttheroomquickly,lettingthedoor
closebehindhimwithaswooshwithoutanotherword.

“What the fuck was that?” I ask the door, gaining no reply—not that I need one. I know exactly

what that was; I just have no idea what to do with it. Dillon has always acted professional with me.
TherehasneverbeenatimethatI’veseenhimlookatmelikehe’sinterested,butthelookinhiseyes
amomentagowasprimalandnotoneanengagedmanshouldgiveanotherwoman,orabossshould
givehisemployee,ever.

Shakingoffthestrangefeelinginthepitofmystomach,Ifinishchangingoutmybagthenleave

theroomandmakemywaythroughthecasinoandintothelobby.NotfindingDilloninside,Ihead
outside to the area the cabs and limos pick up and drop off, and spot him standing with a group of
people. I’m not surprised he’s surrounded by a gaggle of women and a couple of men. He tends to
draw attention wherever he goes, and it’s something else that annoys me. I hate being the center of
attention,andIdon’treallylikepeoplewhoneedittofeelimportant.Needingaminutetogetmyhead
together,Istopafewfeetawayandtuckmyclutchundermyarm.

“Whereyougoing,gorgeous?’Causewhereveritis,I’mthere,”adrunkguy,whocan’tbemuch

olderthantwenty-one,slurs,stumblinguptome.Hisclothesarerumpled,hishairindisarray,andif
hewasn’tsuchamess,he’dbecute.Butsadly,sloppydrunkworksfornoone.

Ignoring him, I untuck my purse, open it, and pull out my cell phone, knowing better than to

engagewithmenlikehiminhiscurrentstate.

“Soyou’retogoodforme?”heslurs,snatchingmycelloutofmyhand,andmyeyesflyup.
“Givememyphone,”Isayevenly,holdingoutmyhand,andhiseyestravelthelengthofmeand

hisfacescrunchesup.

“Hoherethinksshe’stoogoodforme.”
“Mike, come on. Give her the phone and let’s go,” someone says off to the side, but I keep my

eyesonMike,withmypalmouttowardhim.MydadinsistedItakemartialartswithJaxwhenIwas
little. I hated it; I wanted to be a ballerina, not a ninja, but he was adamant about me being able to

protectmyself.Overtheyears,theskillsIlearnedbackthenhavecomeinhandy,likenow,whenallI
reallywanttodoiskickthecrapoutofMikebutknowbetter.OneofthefirstthingsIwasforcedto
learnwascontrol,toneverlosemytemper.ThesecondthingIlearnedwastokeepmyeyesonmy
enemyatalltimes.Iwasneverreallygoodateither,butIstillgotablackbeltintheend.

“Mike,”Isaysoftly,takingasteptowardhim.“I’mgoingtoaskyounicely,once,togivememy

phone.Ifyoudon’t,IsweartoGodIwillunleashtheKraken,kickyourassinfrontofyourfriends,
andsendyouhomecryingtoyourmother.”

Laughing,helooksaroundthenhiseyeswidenastheymovebehindme.Ireally,reallywantto

knowwhathe’slookingat,butIrefusetoturnmyheadandgivein.

“Giveherthephone.”ThedeeprumbleofDillon’svoicesendsachilldownmyspine.I’veonly

heardhimpissedafewtimes,andIknowhe’spissedrightnowwithoutevenlookingathim.

“I… I… w-was just playin’ man,” Mike stutters out, tossing my phone toward me. Missing my

handsandcausingmyphonetocrashtotheground,andmynostrilstoflareasitshattersatmyfeet.

“Oh,shit.Oh,Christ.I’msorry.”Hedropstohiskneesandbeginsgatheringthepiecesofwhat

usedtobemyphonethentriestogetup,butfallsfaceforwardintomycrotch,causingmetostumble
back.

“Ican’tbelievethisshit,”Dillongrumbles,catchingmebeforeIfall,thentugsmeoutoftheway

as Mike’s friends decide to finally step in and pick him up from the ground. “You had to wear that
outfit.”

“Youcannotbeseriousrightnow?”Ihiss,swingingmyheadbackandfindinghimglaringdown

atme.

“Deadly.”
“Letmego.”Itrytogetfree,buthishandonmywaisttightensashiseyesleavemine.Swinging

myheadintheotherdirection,IfindoneofMike’sfriendsstandingafewfeetawaywithmyphone,
lookinganywherebutatus,andMikeofftotheside,pukinginatrashcan.

“Letmego,”Irepeat,andhisarmtightensforamomentbeforehefinallyletsmeloose.Ireally

wanttoscreamorthrowafit,butinstead,Icalmlytakemyclutchandopenit,holdingitouttoward
theguyandlettinghimdumpthenowuselesspiecesinside.“YouneedtogethimsomeGatoradeand
toast,”Itellhim,noddingtowardMike.

“Um, yeah sure. Than…” his words taper off, and the smile that was forming on his lips slides

awayashelooksovermyshoulder.Rollingmyeyes,IwatchhimturnquicklyandgotoMiketohelp
carryhimaway,feelingDillongetcloseoncemore.

“Limo’swaiting,”hemutters,placinghishandagainstmylowerback,makingmetense.
“I’mnotgoing.”Itrytostepaway,buthishandslidesaroundmywaist,bringingmysideintohis

middle.

“Youare.”
“I’mnot.”
“Youare,”hegrowls,leaningforward,close…waytooclose.
“Fine,youwantmethere?I’llgo,butjustsoyouknow,Iplanongettingcompletelywasted,so

youhavejustbecomemychaperonefortheevening.”

“You’renotgettingdrunk.”
“Wasted,notdrunk.AndyoubettermakesureIdon’tdoanythingstupid.”Ipathischest,ignoring

hisflashingeyes.Withthat,Istepoutofhisgraspandstarttowardthelineoflimosthenturntolook
overmyshoulderathim,realizingIhavenocluewhichonetogoto.

Smirking, he crosses his arms over his chest and raises a brow. “What’s wrong, blondie?

Confused?”Hismockingtoneandthelookoftriumphinhiseyesdoesit.Iturnonmyheelsandhead
tooneofthelimoswiththedriverstandingoutsideleaningagainstit.Themomentthedriverspots
mecominginhisdirection,hisbackleavesthecarandhiseyesrakeoverme,makingmyteethsnap
together.

“CanIhelpyou,Miss?”
“Ashlyn Mayson, get your ass back here,” Dillon snarls behind me, making my palm itch to

smackhim.

“I’msorry,pumpkin.Ithoughtyousaidthiswasourlimo.”Ifakepout,turningtolookathimand

tossingmyheadtothesideforgoodmeasure.

“Christ,youdrivemefuckinginsane.”HewalkstowhereI’mstanding,taggingmyhand,andthen

startstodragmewithhim,grumblingunderhisbreath.

“You know all I want in this whole wide world is to make you happy, pumpernickel,” I whine,

battingmylasheswhilewatchinghisjawtic.

Leadingmetowardanotherlimowithadriverholdingthebackdooropen,hegrowls,“Behave.”
“IswearI’llbeyourgoodgirlfromnowonifyoudon’tspankme,”Istage-whisper,andhishand

spasmsinmineasasmirkformsonhislips.

“Youdon’tbehave,I’llbendyouoverandtanyourassrighthere.”Hiswordsringthroughmy

ears,makingmyinsidesliquid,andthenIhearthesoundofamalechuckleasI’mgentlyforcedinto
thebackseatofthedarklimobeforeIcanreply.

“You’resuchajerk,”Ihiss,adjustingmyskirtasImoveacrosstheleatherseats.
“You started the show we put on. I just ended it,” he mutters, sitting down across from me and

unbuttoninghissuitjacket.

“Youstarteditwiththewhole‘blondie’thing.”Icrossmyarmsovermychestandglareathim.
“Canwenotdothistonight?Canwegetalongforonedamnevening?”
“Youtellme.I’mnottheonewho’sbossyandannoyingallthedamntime.”
“No,you’rejustcrazy.”
“Crazy?”Isnort,andhislipstwitcheversoslightly.“I’mnotcrazy.”
“Babe, you told that kid you were going to unleash the Kraken on him then went on to tell his

friendstogethimGatoradeandtoast.You’rethedefinitionofcrazy.”

Hemayhaveapoint,butinsteadofagreeingwithhim,Iturnmyheadtolookoutthewindowand

watchthecityofLasVegasslideby.

“T

URN

OFF

.Turnitoff,”Icroonsleepilyasmyhandsweepsoutinthedirectionofthenoiseblaring

fromthealarm,missingitoverandoverasthebeepingcontinuestotortureme.

“Jesus,shutthatshitoff.”Anarmcomesfromaroundme,andsilencefillstheroomasmybody

freezesandmyeyesspringopen,onlytocloseagainwhentheroomspins.

“Oh,God,whyareyouinmybed?”Ihiss,tryingtocalmmystomachthatfeelslikeit’sgetting

readytoempty.

“You’reinmybed,”Dillongrumbles,slidinghisarmaroundmywaist,pullingmyassbackinto

thecrookofhisthighs.

“WhyamIinyourbed?”Ibreatheasbitsandpiecesfromlastnightflashthroughmymind,and

noneofthemaregood.Noneofthematall.

“Youwantedtocuddle.”Heburieshisfaceinmyneckthenmoveshishanduptocupmybreast.I

knowIdon’thaveanyclothesonwhenIfeelthehairfromhisthighsticklemineandhisfingerruns
overmynipple.Oh,God.Amemoryofmetellinghimwehavesomuchincommonwhileweboth
gotnakedforbedfillsmymind,andthenanotheronepopsinandmyhandfliesuptomyface.

Iforcemyeyesopen,tryingtofocus,andseeitthere—thesmall,plain,white-goldbandfromthe

memoryofhimslidingitonmyfinger.

“Wegotmarried?”Ishout,pullinghishandfrommybreast.
“Wegotmarried,”heagrees,notsoundingupset,butinstead,almostproud.
“Oh shit!” I fly out of the bed and trip over our clothes scattered across the floor, feeling him

catchmerightbeforeIlandonmyface.

“Ash,calmdown.”
“Calm down? Calm down? Are you insane? We got married last night. Married, Dillon. I got

married to a man who is engaged to another woman!” I yell, then cover my mouth. “Oh, God, I’m
goingtohell.I’msogoingtohellforthis.”

“I’mnotengaged,”hesayscalmly,givingmeashake.
“I know your fiancée!” I screech, attempting to get away from him, only to have him hold me

tighter.

“I’mnotfuckingwithIsla.Nowstopwiththecrazy.”
“You’renotwithher?”Istop,andherunsahandthroughhishair.
“No,”hestates,holdingmystare,andmybodyuncoilsjustslightly.
“Fine, I’m not going to hell.” I move away from him and resume pacing. “We need to find an

attorney.Isawloadsofadvertisementsonthestrip.We’llgetoneandgetthistakencareof.It’snobig
deal. People get married in Vegas everyday then get divorced. We will just be one of the ninety
percent,”Iramblewhilepacing.

“Wearenotgettinganannulment.”
“Annulment,right.”Isnapmyfingers.“That’sevenbetter.Noonehastoknowaboutthis.”
“Listentome.”Hegrabsontomyshoulders,givingmeashake,andmyeyesfocusonhis.“We

arenotgettinganannulment,ordivorced.Wegotmarriedandarestayingthatway.”

“Oh,God,youweredrugged.”Irestmyhandsagainsthischestanddropmyvoice,“Don’tworry.

We’llgotothehospitalandthey’llgiveyousomething.Onceyou’rebetter,thiswillallbetakencare
of.”

“JesusChrist.”Herubshishandsdownhisface,tiltinghisheadbacktolooktowardtheceiling.

“I’mmarriedtoanut.”

“Hey,that’snotnice.”Iplantmyhandsonmyhips.Hisheaddrops,hiseyesscanthelengthofme,

andIrealizeI’mnaked…thatwe’rebothcompletelynaked.“Dillon.”Itakeastepbackwhenhiseyes
meetmine,andhisarmsswingtowardme.“Whatareyoudoing?”Ishriek,sidesteppinghim,onlyto
stumble onto the bed, where I attempt to roll. But he flips me to my back, his giant body moving
betweenmylegs,andhishandspinmywriststothemattressovermyhead.Panting,Ilookupintohis
beautifulblueeyes.

“We are not getting a divorce,” he snarls, leaning down so his face is mere centimeters from

mine.

“Berational.”Iliftmyhipsandmyarms,tryingtothrowhimoff.“You’reobviouslyon—”
Before I can say more, his head descends and his mouth is covering mine, stealing my breath

alongwithmysoul.Thefeelofhislips,thetasteofhimonmytongue,ignitessomethingdeepinside
ofme,andIkisshimbackwitheverythingIam.Rippingmymouthfromhis,Ipant,“Pleaseletme
go.”

“No.”Thewordsoundsalmostprimal,andIleanup,placingmymouthbackagainsthis.
“Please,Iwanttotouchyou.”
Groaning, his hands release my wrists, and my palms fly to his chest and slide up and over his

shoulders, pulling him closer to me as my legs wrap around the back of his thighs. He kisses me
again,thistimeusinghistongueandteethtotorturemeinthemostbeautifulwaypossible.

“How is it possible you taste as good as you look?” he questions, pulling back, but I have no

answer for him. He tastes amazing and having him covering me, his hardness pressing against my
softness, is making my brain short-circuit. Palming my breast, he slides his thumb over my nipple,
causing my hips to jerk forward. Rolling us again, he settles me on top of him, palms both my
breasts,andthenleansup,pullingmyrightnippleintohismouth,releasingitwithapop.“Whendid
yougetthese?”hequestions,flickingthetipwithhistongue.

“WhenIwasthirteen.”Ismile,andhesmilesbackthenmovestomyotherbreast,doingthesame,

onlysuckingharder,almostpunishing.

“When?” he asks again, and I know he’s asking about my nipple piercings. I got them with my

cousinAprilafewyearsback.Iwantedapiercing,butneededtobeabletolookprofessionaltothe
outsideworld,soIgotbothmynipplesdonewithsimple,almostelegant-lookinggoldbarbells.

“Threeyearsago,”Ibreatheashetweaksthetinypieceofmetal.
“Beforeme.”
“What?”Itrytofocus,buteverytimehetouchesme,mybodygetshotterandmyfocusdepletes.

Grabbingmyhips,hetugsmeforward,draggingmywetcenteralonghislength.

“Soaked.” He nips my nipple then wraps his hand into the hair at the back of my head, taking

controlofmymovementsashepullsmymouthtohisandthrustshistonguebetweenmylips.Lostin
hiskissandthefeelofhimbetweenmylegs,soclosetowhereIneedandwanthim,Isqueakwhenhe
flipsusoverandslidesdownmybody,notgivingmeachancetothinkashismouthcoversme.

“Dillon.”Myhandsmovethroughhishairandmyhipsliftoffthebed,offeringmyselfuptohim

without thinking about anything but the way his tongue, lips, and teeth feel as he fucks me with his
mouth.“Oh,God.Oh,God,I’mgoingtocome,”Ipant,feelingmytoescurlintothebeddingandmy
hands grip his hair. The touch of his finger rimming just the inside of my entrance sends me over,
shoutinghisnameasIgo.

Feeling him kiss my inner thigh then my belly, over my breasts then shoulder, I come back to

myselflazily.

“Tell me you want me.” Looking into my eyes while his hand moves between my legs and his

fingersslidethoughmyfolds,IknowI’llgivehimanything.“TellmeyouwantmeasbadlyasIwant
you.”

“Iwantyou,”Ihiss,feelingtheverylargeheadofhiscockatmyentrance,andthenwatchhiseyes

dropbetweenusbeforemyeyesdothesame,andIknowIneedtotellhim.“I—”

Oh,God,toolate…waytoolate.Ibitemylipashefillsme,stretchingme.
“Tight,sogoddamntight.”Hepushesinfartherandhisjawclenches.
“Holdon.Please,holdon,”Ibreathe,andhisbodystillsabovemeashiseyessearchmine.
“What’swrong?”
“Ijustneedaminute.”Isqueezemyeyesclosed,feelinglikeanidiot.
“Baby.”Hisfingersslidealongmyjawandcheekbone,intomyhair.“Doyouwanttostop?”he

asksgently,makingtearsstingmynose.

“God,no.”Hefeelsgood,sogood.Buthe’shuge,waybiggerthananyofmytoys.“You’rejust

big.Sobig.”Iwigglemyhipsandhehissesoutabreath,grabbingmywaist.

“Don’tsaythatshitwhenI’minsideofyou,”hegroans,droppinghisforeheadtomine.
“Ihavetotellyousomething,butpleasedon’tbemad.”
“Christ,whatnow?”Hepullsback,grittinghisteeth.
“Stopbeingajerkandletmetalk.”Ismackhisshoulderandhelooksdownatme,thrustingin

anotherinch.

“Nevermind.Idon’twanttoknow.”
“What?”Imoan,wrappingmylegsaroundhishipsasheslidesinalittlemore.
“Ifit’sgoingtopissmeoff,Idon’twanttoknow.”Heslidesoutthenbackin,andmybackarches

offthebedashisthickcockfillseveryinchofme.

“You’resuchadick!”Icryoutashetossesmylegoverhisshoulder,changingtheangleofhis

thrust.

“Idon’tgiveafuckaboutthateither.”Hedropshismouth,coveringmineandstealingmyreply—

not that I have time to think about that as his mouth leisurely travels down my neck to my breast,
whichhepullsandsucksuntilI’monceagainshoutinghisnameandhearingminegroanedfromhis
lipsaswebothcome.

“A

NEED

togetup.We’vealreadymissedtheconferencethismorning,andIhavetospeakintwo

hoursatthenextone.”

“Youhavetospeak,notme.”Ipullthepillowovermyheadinanattempttodrownhimout,along

withthefactImarriedandsleptwithhimthenspentthelasttwohourscuddledintohischestlikea
damnpuppy.

“You’recomingwith.”
“I’mnot.”Irolltomystomach.
“You are.” He tugs the pillow away then rolls me to my back, looming over me. “What do you

wantforbreakfast?I’llorderup,andwe’lleatbeforewegodown.”

Okay, this is getting really weird, and I wonder if he didn’t get a concussion at some point last

night.“Ithinkweneedtotalkaboutwhathappened,aboutwhatwe’regoingtodo.”

“Notthisagain.”Hesighs,lookingovermyhead.
“It’skindaabigdeal!”Icry,andhishandslidesbetweenmylegs,cuppingme.
“Wegotmarried,consummatedthatmarriage,andnowweneedtogettowork.Ifwedidn’thave

todealwithworkshit,wewouldspendtherestoftheweekendinthisbed.”

Feelingmyeyesgrowwide,Ibreathe,“You’velostit,totallylostit.”
“Tell me that you haven’t been feeling this pull between us. Tell me that I’m the only one who

feels this, and I’ll get up and walk away. I’ll even call a lawyer myself and have our marriage
dissolvedbytomorrow.”

Oh,God,IwanttotellhimthatIhaven’tfeltit,thatIdon’tknowwhathe’stalkingabout,butIdo.

I’vefeltitsincethemomentwemet.Apulltowardhim,liketheuniversehadtiedastringbetweenus,
linkingustogether.ButIneverknewhefeltit.“Youcan’t.Iknowyoucan’t,becauseit’sbeenthere
sincethebeginning.”

“Wegotmarried.Married.That’smorethanusjustdatingandseeinghowthingsgo,Dillon.”
“Yep,andnowitwilltakealotmorethanyoujustwalkingawaytogetridofme.”
“Whatisthatsupposedtomean?”Ifrown.
“Youdateallthedamntime,baby.I’veseenyourunmenofffornotwearingthepropersocksor

forpartingtheirhairthewrongway.”

“Excuseme?”Ihaveneverdonethat,notonce.Okay,yes,I’malittlepicky,butwhatwomanisn’t?

“Justsaying,itwillbealotharderforyoutodropme,nowthatyouhavemylastname.”
“You’recrazy,”Ibreathe,andhisfacemovescloseenoughthathislipsbrushmine.
“No,I’vefinallygotyouwhereIwantyou.”Hegrins,andmyheartratespeedsup.
“Fine,ifyouwanttoseehowthisgoes,I’mgoingtopretendlikewedidn’tgetmarriedandthat

wearejustdating.”

“Wearemarried.”
“Notinmyheadwe’renot,”Igrouch,andhisnostrilsflare.“I’dliketoremindyouthatyouthink

I’m crazy and don’t even really like me.” I know I drive him nuts, and that he thinks I’m off my
rockermostdays,soIdon’tunderstandwhyhewantstostaymarried,orwhyheevenmarriedmeto
beginwith.Thatmemoryisstillfuzzy,butIswearheistheonewhoinsistedwetietheknotafterI
madeajokeaboutusgettingmarried.

“Oh, I definitely like you.” His finger flicks my clit as his mouth touches mine. “Now, what do

youwantforbreakfast?”

Rubbingmyhandsdownmyfaceinfrustration,Imutter,“Pancakes,bacon,andeggs.Andcoffee,

thelargestpottheyhave.”

“Gotit.”HisfingersslideawayandhismouthtouchesmyshoulderbeforeIfeelhimexitthebed.

Pullingmyhandsfrommyface,Iwatchhimmoveacrosstheroomtothephoneandplacetheorder
forourfoodbeforehewalkstothedresserandopensit,pullingoutapairofboxers.

“Nooneissupposedtousethosedressers,”Iinformhim,sittingupandnoticinghissuitcaseis

nowhereinsight,whilemineisstillopenonthefloorinthemiddleoftheroomwithitemsscattered
outaroundit.

“Pardon?”Hiseyescometomethendroptomybreast.Rollingmyeyes,Ituckthesheetunder

myarmsandnodtowardthedresser.

“Noonefoldstheirclothesandputsthemawayinthosedresserswhentheyareonavacationora

trip.Everyonelivesoutoftheirsuitcase.”

“Sayswho?”
“Idon’tknow,everyone.”
Grinning,likehethinksI’mcute,heopensanotherdrawerandpullsoutashirtthenstepstoward

thebed.“Youwannashowerwithme?”

“No.”Ishakemyhead,eventhoughIreallydowantto.“Itoldyou,fromthismomenton,weare

justdating.Sonomorenakedanything,anddefinitelynoshoweringtogether.”

“If you say so.” He walks to the bathroom, the mirror on the wall across the hall from him

allowingmetocontinuewatchinghimuntilIgetannoyedwithmyselfandpullthepillowfromthe
bednexttome,putittomyface,andscream.SwearingIhearhimlaughasIdo.

Chapter2

Ashlyn

“B

ABY

PLANE

’

LANDING

,”Dillonsaysintomyear,andmyeyesslowlyopenasmyheadliftsoffhis

shoulder,whereitdroppedassoonastheplanelefttheground.Puttingmyfeettothefloor,Ilook
aroundthefirstclasssection,watchingtheflightattendantpickupemptyglassesandtrash.

“Imissedthechampagne,”Icomplain,lookingatDillon.“Itoldyoutowakemeupforthatpart.”
“Youweretired.Youneededsleep.Youcanhavechampagneathome.”
MynosescrunchesandImakeagrossface,gagging,andmutter,“Ewwwno,Ihatechampagne.”
Chuckling,heleanstowardme.“Thenwhy’dyouwanttodrinkitnow?”
“’Causewe’reinfirstclass.Iwantedthefullexperience.”Ishrug.I’veneverflownfirstclass,and

I’vealwayswonderedwhatitwouldbelike.It’shonestlynodifferent,justbiggerseats.Well,plusfree
champagne,whichIdidn’thave.

“You’reanut.”
“Stopcallingmethat,”Isayforthebillionthtime,glaringathim.
“Acutenut.”Heleansin,kissingthesideofmymouth,thenrunshisfingersdownmycheekandI

see his wedding band sitting at the base of his finger, which makes my stomach turn. The weekend
wentbyinaflash.Betweenconferencesanddinners,therewasn’talotoftimetothinkaboutthefact
wearenowmarried.Well…therewastimetothinkaboutit,becauseheinsistedonintroducingmeas
hiswifetoanyoneandeveryone,whichcompletelyfreakedmeout.

“Wherearewesleepingtonight?”heasks,draggingmeoutofmyhead.Ipullmyeyesfromhis

ring and lean down, picking up my bag from the floor, pretending I didn’t hear his question.
“Ashlyn.”Hishandmovestomydenim-coveredthigh,squeezing.

“Hm?”Ipulloutmycompactandflipitopen.
“Iknowyouheardmyquestion.Wherearewesleeping?Yourplaceormine?”
“You’resleepingatyourplaceandI’msleepingatmine,”Imutter,pullingoutmychapstick,only

tohaveitsnatchedoutofmyhand.MyeyesflytohisandIswallowwhenIseethelookhe’sgiving
me.Itriedoverthelastthreedaystoinsistwesleepindifferentbeds.Thatdidn’thappen.Hewould
join me in mine or drag me to his, each and every time. And each and every time, I put up a fight,
knowingIwouldlose.

Okay,soImaynothavefoughtthathard.
There was something about sleeping next to him that made me feel oddly whole—something I

likedalittletoomuch,ifIwashonestwithmyself.

“Fine,we’restayingatmyhouse.”Hesitsback,bucklinghisseatbelt.
“No.”Ishakemyhead.“NowayamIstayingatahousethatyouboughtforanotherwoman.No

freakingway.”Isnapmycompactclosedandtossitinmybag.

“Ididnotfuckingbuythathouseforher,”hegrowls,settingmyteethonedge.
“Ican’tdothis.”Ishakemyhead;eventhethoughtofhermakesmemental,makesmewanttokill

someone,mainlyhim,becauseheistheonewhowasengagedtothewoman—awomanI’malmost
positivehasthedevilinsideofher.

“You’reverywrong,wife.We’realreadydoingthis.”
“Dillon.”Isoftenmyvoice,leaningcloser.“Weeachneedsometimetothinkaboutthis,toreally

thinkaboutwhatitiswe’redoing.Maybehavinganightapart—”

“Not happening.” He cuts me off with a shake of his head then leans across me, pulling my

seatbeltovermylapandlockingit.

“Yesitis.”Ismackhishandsaway.
“It most definitely is not.” He tags the back of my neck, pulls me close, and kisses me until my

bodymeltsintohis.“We’llstayatyourplace,”hewhispersagainstmylips,andmyeyesflutteropen.

“You’re so annoying,” I breathe, seeing him smile before he lets me go and grabs my hand,

holdingittightuntilwe’velanded,andthenkeepsaholdofituntilhe’sforcedtoreleasemesohecan
carryourbags.

“Alimo,seriously?”IrollmyeyeswhenIrealizewhatcarhe’sleadingmeto.
“It’sjustacar,baby.”
“No,acarisjustacar.Thisisalimo,thereareonlytwoofus.WeshouldhaveusedmyUber.It

wouldhavecostawholelotless,”Imuttertohisbackashedragsoursuitcasesbehindhimtowardthe
driver.

“Maybetheyhavechampagneinside.”Hegrinsatmeoverhisshoulder,andIdon’twanttothink

he’sfunny,butIfindmyselfsmilingbackathimanyway.

“You went to Vegas single and came back married.” Our driver, who apparently knows Dillon,

laughs,givinghimahandshakeandapatontheback.Mybreathfreezesinmylungsandthesoundof
theirvoicesfadesaway.

Yes,wehavebeenmarriedforthreedaysandsixteenhours,butitfeltdifferentwhenwewerein

Vegas.Itfelt,almostunreal.Butnowwe’rebackinTennessee.Tennessee…wheremyfamilylives.
Tennessee… where my dad, who owns a plethora of guns, lives. Tennessee… where no one knows
aboutourmarriage,butwheremyverynoseyfamilyallresidesandisliabletofindout.Iknowmy
mom is already wondering what’s going on. Dillon had a phone delivered to me at the hotel the
afternoonwewokeupmarriedsoIhavebeenabletotalktohereverydayaspromised,andsheknows
DillonandIweresharingaroom,sinceDillonwouldn’tkeephishandsoffmeormouthclosedwhen
Iwasonthephoneher.

“Baby.” Coming out of my daze, I blink as his hand comes to rest against my cheek. “Hey,” his

facedipscloserandhiseyessearchmine,“areyouokay?”

“HowamIgoingtotellmyfamilyaboutthis?”Iholdupmyhandandpointatmyring,whichI

tookoffonce,onlytohaveitshovedrightbackonmyfingerwithagrowltellingmenottotakeitoff
everagain.

Hisfacesoftensandhishandslidesaroundthebackofmyneck.“We’lltellthemtogether.”
“Mydadownsguns,lotsandlotsofguns.Thisisn’tgoingtoendwellforyou.”
“Itwillbeokay.”
“I think something happened to you. I’m pretty sure you’ve lost your mind.” I start to panic as

visionsofhimbeingchasedbymydad,wieldingashotgun,flashthroughmymind.

“Stopworrying.Itwillworkout.”
“Itwon’t.”
“Itwill,trustme.”
Snorting,Imutter,“LasttimeItrustedyou,weendedupmarried.”
“Well,thatcan’thappenagain,nowcanit?”Hesmilessmugly,andIletoutahuff.
“At least there’s that.” Chuckling, he takes my hand and helps me into the back seat then gets in

behindmeasImovetositacrossfromhim.

“Comeoverhere.”Hepatstheseatnexttohimasthedrivershutsthedoor.
“Why?”
“Iwanttotellyousomething.”
“Youcantellmefromhere.”
“Comehere,”herepeats,andIraiseabrowthensqueakwhenheleansforward,wrapshishands

aroundmywaist,anddragsmetostraddlehim.

“Dillon!”Isnap,andhishandsslideupundermyshirt,causinggoosebumpstobreakoutacross

myskinandbutterfliestodanceinmystomach.

“You’resodamnbeautiful,”hemumbles,andIstillwhileoneofhishandsslidesfartherupthe

backofmyshirtandtheothermovestorestontheundersideofmyjaw.“Fartooperfecttobereal.I
thoughtthatsincethemomentIfirstsawyou.”

“Youdid?”Iquestion,leaningforward,lostinthelookinhiseyesandhissoftlyspokenwords.
“I did,” he confirms, sliding his fingers through the hair at the back of my head, pulling me

closer.“Ididn’tknowallofyouthen.Ihadnoideahowdamnsmartyouare,howfunnyyouare,how
caringandcompassionate—”

“Youforgotcrazy,”Iwhisper,cuttinghimoff,andhesmiles.
“Crazy,sodamncrazy.”Heclosestheminutedistancebetweenus,kissingmegentlythenpulling

back.

“Ididn’tknowyouevenlikedme,”Itellhim,runningmyfingersthroughhishair,andhisbody

stiffens.“Dillon.”

“Icouldn’ttellyou.IneededtotakecareofafewthingsbeforeIevenattemptedtogetintoyour

head.”

“What?”Ileanback,andhishandsmovetomywaist,holdingtight.
“Islaandme,there’s—”
“Nope.”Iattempttostrugglefree,buthisgriptightens.“Letmego.”
“Never,”hegrowls,pullingmecloser.
“Dillon.”
“Iwon’ttalkabouthernow,butwewillbetalkingabouther.Youneedtounderstand.”
“Ireallydon’t,”Ihiss,grabbinghishandsandtryingtoprythemoffofme.“Idon’twanttotalk

abouther—notnow,notever.She’s…she’sevil.”

“Calm.”
“Youcalm!Youwereengagedtoher,weregoingtomarryher,”Itaunt,tuggingathishands.
“Iwasn’t.”
“Oh,myGod,”Igrowl,leaningasfarbackasIcango.“Doyouknowhowoftensheflashedthat

obnoxiousringinfrontofmyface?Howoftenshereiteratedthatyouwereherstome?Like…likeI
wantedyou!”

“Youdidwantme,”hewhispers,andmyhandsmovetohisshirt,whereIgrabonwithbothfists

andleancloseuntilmyfaceisaninchfromhis.

“Donotdothat.Donotevensaythat.NeverinabillionfrickingyearswouldIeverapproacha

man who I knew was married, engaged, or had a girlfriend.” I pull him forward, hissing, “Never.
EvenifIwasattractedtoyou,Iwouldneverevergothere.Notever.”Ilethimgothenmovequickly
offhislap.“I’mnotaslut,awhore,orahome-wrecker.”Iholdhisstare.“Anduntilyou,”Ipointat
hischest,“Ihadneverevenbeenwithaman,soputthatinyourpipeandfuckingsmokeit!”Iyell,
dropping to the seat behind me, feeling my chest heave, completely missing the look of shock and

satisfactiononhisface.

“Baby.”
“No, do not ‘baby’ me, and do not come near me.” I hold out my hand when he starts to sit

forward.“IswearIwilltakeoutyoureyesifyoutouchme.”Pressinghislipstogether,Icantellhe’s
trying not to laugh and that he thinks I’m funny, but I’m dead serious. “I can’t believe I’m fricking
marriedtoyou.”

“Believe it,” he barks, pushing up the sleeves of his navy blue Henley up to his elbows. “We’re

married,baby,andyoubettergetusetotheidea,’causethatshitisnotchanging.Ever.”

“You’renotlettingmego,blahblahblah…You’vesaiditbefore.”Irollmyeyes,crossingmy

armsovermychest.

“Glad you’re starting to understand.” He leans forward, and I brace myself. “And just so we’re

clearandyouunderstandcompletely,yousealedyourfate.You’remine.Thatbrainofyoursismine.
Yourbodyismine.And,”hegrowls,leaningcloser,“thatpussyonlyI’vehadisfuckingmine.You’ve
beenmineforalongfuckingtime,baby.Youjustdidn’tknowit.”

“AndyouthinkI’mthecrazyone,”Imutter,turningmyheadtolookoutthewindow.
Feelinghishandonmythigh,myeyesflytohim.“Ourpastsdonothaveonegoddamnthingto

do with what is going on between us now, and one day, when you’re ready to listen, I’ll explain
things.”

“Sure.”Ishakemyhead,pushinghishandawayandturningmyeyesbacktothewindow.
“Jesus,you’reapainintheass.”
“Andyou’readick,”Imumbletotheglass,restingmyforeheadagainstit,liftingitonlytoturn

andglareathimtwentyminuteslaterwhenIseewherewe’reheaded.

“I told you I’m not staying at your house,” I hiss as soon as I see the limo turn down the long

drivewaythatleadstohisplace.Iwouldn’tevencallhishouseahouse;it’samansion,oneoftheonly
onesintown.Thesizeofitisridiculousforjustone,oreventwopeopletolivein.Ithastobeover
eight thousand square feet with upper and lower balconies, giant pillars in the front, along with a
fountaininthecirculardriveway.Whothehellhasafountainoutsidetheirhouseunlesstheyarethe
frickingKardashiansortheFreshPrinceofBellaire?

“We’regettingmycar,andIneedtogetsomeclothes,”hesayswhilepullingouthiscellphone,

typingsomethingonthescreenthatmakesthewholehouselightup,insideandout,asweparkout
front.

“Thedrivercanjusttakemehome.”
“No,”isallhesaysasheshoveshisphonebackintohispocketandopensthedoor.Ignoringhis

handthatheholdsoutforme,Igetoutonmyownandheadtothetrunkwheremybagisstowed.

“Thankyou,”Itellthedriverashesetsmybagontheground,doingthesamewithDillon’s.
“Wouldyoulikemetohelpyouinside?”
“No,thankyou.We’vegot—”
“That’sfine,Tim,”Dillonsays,andmyteethsnaptogether.
“It’sreallynotaproblem.”Hesmilesatme,pickingupbothpiecesofluggageandcarryingthem

towardthehouse.

“Wecouldhavecarriedourownbags,”Isay,turningtoglareatDillon.
“Areyouitchingforafight?”heaskswhenthedriverisoutofearshot,grabbingmyhandand

preventingmefromwalkingaway.

“No.”Iattempttoshakehimfreebuthisholdtightensashetugs,forcingmeastepclosertohim.
“Thenrelaxwiththeattitude.”

“Don’ttellmetorelax.”
“Baby,”hisvoicesoftensandhisfacedipsclosertowardmine,“Icantellyou’rereadytogoto

warwithme,butIdon’twanttofightwithyou.We’vehadareallygoodweekendandwe’rehome
now.AllIwanttodoisgetsomeclothes,gotoyourplace,getsomethingtoeat,fuckyou,andgoto
sleepwithyoupressedagainstme.”

“Wearenothavingsex,”Igrumble,lookingoverhisshoulder.ThatisonethingI’vestoodfirm

on.Yes,somehowI’mstillmarriedtohim,butIrefusetocontinuehavingsexwithhimuntilIfeel
moresecureinwhat’sgoingonbetweenus.

“Can’tblamemefortrying.”Hegrins,andIletoutadeep,frustratedbreath,blowingapieceof

hairoutofmyface.

“You’renotfunny.”
“Stopbeingpissed.”Hetugsmyhand,causingmetofallcompletelyintohim,andhishandslides

aroundmybacksohecanholdmeclose.Itrytofightthefeelinginmystomachashismouthlowers
towardmine,butassoonasourlipstouch,I’monceagainlostineverythingthatishim.

“Now,”hesayssoftlyagainstmylips,leaningbackjustaninch,“Timhasbeenmydriversince

my first flight to Tennessee. He has a daughter with autism and works days at the airport doing
security.Themoneyhemakesatthatgigdoesn’tgivehimenoughtogethertheextrahelpsheneeds,
butdrivingandtipsdo.He’saproudman.Hewon’ttakehandouts,soIlethimhelpwithmybagsif
I’vegotthem,orgivehimextra,evenifIdon’t.”

“What?”
“I’mnothighborn,baby.Icouldhavecarriedourbagsordriventotheairportandparkedmyself,

butIlikehelpinghimouttheonlywayIcan.”

“Oh,”Iwhisper,somethingaltogetherdifferentsettlingoverme,andIfeelmyselfmeltintohim.
“Jesus,shouldItellyouaboutthecharitiesIdonateto?”heasks,searchingmyfacewithasmile.
“Maybe.”Ismileback,andheshakeshishead.
“Nut,”hemutters,beforekissingmeoncemoreandleadingmetowardthehouse,whereTimis

comingdownthestairswithoutourbagsbutasmileonhisface.“Itwasgoodtoseeyou,man.I’ll
callandgiveyoumytravelscheduleinafewdays,”Dillonsaystohim,palminghimsomemoney.

“Soundsgood,andhaveagoodevening.”Hegivesuseachasmilethenheadstowardthelimo,

wherehegetsinandtakesoffdownthedrivewayasDillonopensthedoortohishouse.Stoppingwith
thedooropen,Isqueakashescoopsmeupwithanarmbehindmybackandoneundermyknees.

“Whatareyoudoing?”Ilatchontohisneckandhelaughs.
“Carryingyouoverthethreshold.”Hepecksmynosethensetsmedownbeforesteppingbackout

tobringourbagsinside.Itrytotellmyselfhisactionsarenotsweet,butmystomachstillflutters.

“Holycrap.”Ispininacircle,takingeverythingin.Iknewfromtheoutsidethatthehousewould

beabsurdtomost,butwithshinymarblefloors,twocurvedstaircasesleadingtothesecondlevel,a
giant crystal chandelier hanging from what must be twenty-foot ceilings, it really is ridiculous. I
mean,thereisevenadark,antiqueroundtableinthemiddleofthespacewithanobnoxiouslylarge
vaseoffakeflowersinthecenterofit.

“Doyoulikeit?”DillonasksandIstopmyspintolookathim,restingmyhandsonmyhips.
“Honestly?”Idon’twanttohurthisfeelings,butIwouldneverliveinaplacelikethis.It’scold

andremindsmeofamuseuminsomeways.

“Honestly.”
“No.” I shrug then look around again. “I mean, I know some people like these types of houses,

don’tgetmewrong,butitdoesn’tfeellikeahome.Tome,itfeelslikeahotellobby.Ican’timagine

kickingoffmyshoesandwalkingaround,andnowaycanIseekidshere.Iwouldbeafraidthey’d
breaksomethingorhurtthemselvesontheseshinyfloors,”Isay,shufflingmyfootagainsttheshinny
marble.

“Kids?”
“Minipeople.Kids.”Inod,andhiseyeschangeever-so-slightlybeforeleavingmine.
Scanningtheroom,heslideshishandsintothepocketsofhisjeansandleansback.“Itreminded

meofmygrandparents’homeinWestchester,NewYork.”Hesmilesthenlooksatmeoncemore.“I
lovedtheirhousegrowingup.MybrotherandIusedtospendoursummerswiththem.Wespentmost
ofourdaysskatingacrossfloorsjustlikethese,playingindoorhockey.”

“Oh.” I look around, trying to picture a younger him doing just that, laughing and having fun,

goofingaroundandbeingakid.Itseemsalmostimpossible;he’salwayskindofuptightandactslike
he’smucholderthanheis.

“Those were some of my favorite memories, and when I found this house, I could see my kids

doingthesamethingrighthere.”Hepullsonehandfreeandsweepsitouttoencompasstheroom.

“Howmanykidsdoyouwant?”Iaskwithoutthinking.
“Four,ifnotmore.”
“Morethanfour?”Isqueakandhegrins,causingmylegstoquake.
“Orhowevermanyyouwanttogiveme.”
“Slowdown.Ihaven’tevencometotermswiththefactwe’remarried.”
“You will.” He shrugs, pulling his hand from his pocket and walking toward me. “Now let me

showyouaround.”Hetakesmyhand,notgivingmeachoice,thenleadsmethroughoneroomafter
another, including a library with big, oversized couches, fluffy chairs, and a fireplace making the
roomfeelcozy.Akitchen,withahugeislandinthecenter,tonsofcounterspace,andappliancesthe
likesI’veneverseeninperson,includingaglassfrontfridgeandapizzaoven.Beforeweevenmake
it to his room I’m half in love with the house, but when I see his bedroom I’m done. The room is
threetimesthesizeofmine,withamasculinefour-postbedinthecenterofitcoveredincrispwhite
sheetsandasimplepatternwhiteandgrayduvet,butbyfarmyfavoritethingishisclosetthatisso
big it has an island in the middle. By the time the tour is over and he’s packed some clothes, I’m
wonderingifitwouldn’tbesobadtostayathisplace.

“W

ARE

NOT

watchingthisgarbage.”

Pausingthetelevision,IturnandglareatDillon,who’ssprawledoutnexttomewithhisbackto

myheadboard.Hisbarechestondisplay,tightboxersleavingnothingtotheimagination,andhisfeet
crossedattheankle.

“Thisisnotgarbage.Thisisthetruth,andyoujustneedtoexpandyourmind.”Ipointtheremote

athim,lettingoutahuff.MycousinJulygotmehookedonthisshow,andeversinceIwatchedthe
firstepisode,I’vebecomeanaddict.

“Aliens,babe,seriously?AncientAliens?Whattheever-lovingfuckisthat?”
“The government has been covering up the secrets of the universe for years. These people,” I

pointbackattheTV,“arelettingusinonwhat’sreallybeengoingonforcenturies.”

“Thatguythere?”HepointsattheTV,andIlookatthescreen.Okay,sohelooksalittlestrange

withshaggybrownhairandbeadyeyes,butthatdoesn’tnegatethefacthe’sageniusandImayhavea
littlecrushonhim.

“Justwatch.”
“Canwefindsomethingelse?”
“No,thisisthenewestseasonandIhavetocatchup.AndthenIwanttowatchNakedandAfraid.”
“NakedandAfraid?”Hisbrowssnaptogether,andIrollmyeyes.
“Haveyoubeenlivingunderarock?It’sonlyoneofthebestshowsintheworld.”
“I’mseeingwehavedifferenttastesinTV,”hemumbles,lookingatmelikeI’mcrazy.
“Whatever. You’ll see,” I mutter back, pressing play on the DVR and turning back to watch my

show,allwhilerestingmyelbowsonmykneeswhicharecrossedinfrontofme.

“If I’m forced to watch this garbage, you’re going to cuddle with me.” He tags me around the

waistthensettlesmeagainsthim.Idon’tputupafight;thereisnopoint.Besides,Ilikecuddlingwith
him,eventhoughhisconstantgruntinganddisbelievinghuffsduringmyshowsareannoying.

“CanIhavetheremotenow?”heasks,threehourslater,whenNakedandAfraidcomestoanend.
“Yeah.”Isleepilyhandittohimthenwatch,withmycheektohischestandmyarmthrownacross

his abs, as he flips through channels until he finds Conan O’Brian and drops the remote to his
stomach.“Andyouthoughtmyshowswerelame.”Icuddlecloser,feelinghischestshakeundermy
cheekasmyeyesslideclosedandIfallasleep.

AKING

SUDDENLY

WHEN

the doorbell rings, I roll across the bed and off, landing with my feet to the

floor.“Whatthefuck?”Hesitsup,lookingattheclocknexttothebed,andmyeyesfollowhis,seeing
it’sjusttwominutesafterseven.Itotallyforgotabouttellingmybrother,Jax,tobringmycat,Leo,
back to me this morning before he went to work, and I know that’s him at the door. And under no
circumstancesdoIwanthimtoseeDilloninmyhouse.

“Stayhere.”Ipointathimwhileskirtingthebedandslippingononeofmyzipuphoodiesover

mysleepshortsandtank.

“Stayhere.Hasshelostherdamnmind?”IhearhimaskasIopenthedoor,closingitbehindme

asIslipout.Joggingdownthehalltothefrontdoor,Iopenitjustaninchandpokemyheadout.

“Hey.”Isquintoneeyeclosedastheearlymorningsunalmostblindsme.
“Sorryaboutthetime,”Jaxsays,holdingahissingLeoouttowardme.“Ihadtosneakhimoutof

thehousebeforeHopegotup.”

“Hey,baby,”Igreetmycat,settlinghimagainstmychest,kissingthetopofhishairlessheadand

hearinghimhissbeforelookingupatJaxoncemore.“TellHopeshecancomeseehimanytimeshe
wants.”Ismile,usingmyfreehandtograbtheedgeofthedoorwhenitlookslikehe’sgoingtotry
andcomein,andhiseyesmovetomyhand.

“I’mgoingbacktosleepbeforeIneedtogetupforwork.I’llcallyoulater.”
“What?”Hishandshootsout,preventingmefromshuttingthedoor,andhiseyesnarrow.“What

thehellisgoingon?”

“Nothing,”Ihuff.“I’mjustjet-lagged.I’llcallyoulaterthisafternoon.”
“Areyouokay?”
Feelingmyfacesoften,Inod.Mostofthetime,havingabrotherisannoying,butIwouldbelost

withouthim.He’smybestfriend,andhasbeensincewewerelittle.

“I’mfine,Iswear.”Icrossmyfingersovermyheart.
“Callmewhenyougottimetoday.”
“Willdo,”Iagree,shuttingthedoorbeforehewalksoff,andthenflipthelockbackintoplace.
HoldingLeoupinfrontofmyface,Iwalkdownthehalltowardmyroom,murmuring,“Imissed

mybabysomuch,”ashehisses.Hispawswipesatapieceofmyhairhangingnearmyface.“Areyou

madatMama?”Iask,andhehissesagain,makingmesmile.He’salwaysmadwhenIleavehimfor
anylengthoftime.Okay,he’sreallyalwaysmad,butIlovehim.

“SoItakeityou’renotgoingtotellyourbotheraboutus.”Dillon’svoicestartlesmeandIturn,

findinghimwithhisbareshoulderrestingagainstthedoorjambofmyroom,hisarmscrossedover
hischest.

“I’mgoingtotellhim.”Ishrug,leavingout‘atsomepoint,’sincehedoesn’tneedtoknowthat

part.

“Yeah?”hequestionssoftly,andIhatethedisappointmentIseeinhisgaze.
“I’mgoingtotelleveryonewe’redating,andthenoncethey’reusedtothatidea,I’llexplainwe’re

actuallymarried.”

“Married?”Jax’svoiceringsthroughtheroombehindmeandIspin,findinghimattheendofthe

hall,havingobviouslyusedhiskeytogetin.

“Jax—”Icaution,andhiseyesswingtoDillon.
“Married? You fucking married my sister, when you’re engaged to someone else?” He lunges

forward, and I watch in slow motion as his shoulder hits Dillon in the stomach and he uses his
forward momentum to take him across the room, where they crash into my nightstand and lamp,
causingthenightstandtobangbackintothewallandmylamptotoppleoverandshatterattheirfeet.

“Jax, stop it now!” I scream, dropping Leo to the ground then running toward the two men

wrestlinginmybedroom.

“Getoutofhere,Ash,”JaxsnapsasItrytopullhimoffDillon,who’snotevenattemptingtofight

back.

“Screw you, Jax.” I shove him, wishing I were bigger since it does absolutely nothing to move

him.

“Ifshegetshurt,I’mgoingtokickyourass,”DillonbarksatJax,andlikehiswordshavespoken

to the devil himself, I take a step forward to shove Jax again and my foot slides across a shard of
glass.

“Fuck.”Tearsfillmyeyes.“Youstupidfrickingjerk,”Iwhimper,squeezingmyeyesclosed,too

afraidtomoveasIfreezeinplace.

“Getthefuckoffme!”Dillonsnarls,andIhearsomeonestumblebackbeforeI’mupinarmsthat

I’vegrownaccustomedtoandcarriedacrosstheroom.

“Areyouokay,Ash?”Jaxasks,andIholdDillontighteraspainthrobsthroughmyfoot.
“No,she’snotfuckingokay,”Dillonsnaps,thenlightfiltersthroughmyclosedeyelidsasI’mset

onthecounter.“Fuck,baby,takesomedeepbreathsforme.”Hisvoiceisgentle,andIhearsomeone
elseinhalesharply.

“She’sgonnaneedstitches,”Jaxsays,andIopenmyeyesandfeelthemwidenasIseeblood,so

muchblood,runningdownmyfootanddrippingontothewhitetilesinmybathroom.

SwallowingdownthenauseaIfeelcomeoverme,IlookupatDillonastheroomstartstospin.

“Breathe,baby,youneedtobreatheforme,”hesayscalmly,grabbingatowel,wrappingitaroundmy
foot,andliftingitontothecounternearmyinnerthigh.“Keeppressureonit.”Hetenderlywrapsmy
handsaroundit,andInodoncemore.

“Fuck,Ash.”Jaxmovestowardme,butDillonputsahandagainsthischest,preventinghimfrom

gettingtome.

“Staythefuckback,”hegrowls,thenturnstomeandhiseyesflashasmyheadgrowsdizzy.
“God dammit.” Dropping his hand from Jax chest, he grabs ahold of my face as his gets close.

“Takeabreath.Adeepbreathin,thenletitout.”Ihadn’tevenrealizedIwasholdingmybreathuntil

thatsecond.UntilIpullinadeepbreathandfeeltheoxygenburnthroughmylungs.“Goodgirl,”he
whispers,touchingisforeheadtominebriefly,thenhegrabsanothertowelandtiesitaroundmyfoot
tightly.“Keepbreathingforme.I’llberightback.”Heleansaway,waitingformetoagree.Jerking
myheaduponce,Iwatchhimmove,usinghissizetoforceJaxoutofthebathroom.

“I’m taking her to the hospital,” Jax says, trying to shove his way back toward me. I don’t hear

Dillon’sreply.Myeyesdroptomyfoot,wrappedintwoofmyplushwhitetowels,andIwatchred
soakthroughthetwolayersoffabric.

“Dillon,”I whisper, “there’sway too muchblood.” I start topanic as hecomes back, wearing a

plainblueT-shirt,shorts,andsneakersthataren’teventied.Scoopingmeoffthecounter,hismouth
movestomyear.“You’llbeokay.”

“Yeah.” My head drops to his shoulder, too heavy for me to hold up, as we head down the hall

towardthedoorbehindJax.

“I’lldrive,”mybrotherstateswhenwe’reoutside,andIfeelDillon’schestexpandandagrowlof

annoyance rumble his chest. I want to tell him to stop being a dick, but I’m too tired to even try to
speak.OpeningthedoortoJax’struck,Iexpecthimtosetmedown.Instead,hegetsinandsettlesme
onhislapasJaxjogsaroundandgetsbehindthewheel.

“I’msorry,Ash.”
Tossing my hand out, I wave him off. I know he feels bad enough already, and I honestly don’t

haveitinmetotellhimhe’sanassholerightnow.

“Just drive,” Dillon snaps, and I rub his chest when it rumbles again. His body relaxes, ever so

slightly,ashishandmovestothebackofmyhead,holdingmethere.

“Fuckyou.Thisisyourfault,”Jaxretaliates.
“Me?Youcameatmelikeaderangedlunatic.”
“You’reengagedtoanotherwoman!”Jaxroars.
IburymyfaceagainstDillon’schestandhisarmstightenaroundme.“I’mnotfuckingengaged.If

yougavemeahalfafuckingsecond,Iwouldhavetoldyouthat.”

“Damnfuckingstraight,you’renotengagedanymore,sinceyoumarriedmygoddamnsister.”
“Fuck! Just fucking drive and shut the fuck up,” Dillon hisses, and I squeeze my eyes closed,

feelingaheadachecomingon.Feelingthetensioninthecargrowingwitheachmile,I’mmorethan
thankful when we reach the hospital and Jax drops us at the ambulance bay where Dillon get’s out,
stillholdingme.

Carryingmethroughtheautomaticemergencyroomdoors,Ihearthemswishclosedbehindus,

thensecondslater,awomangasp.

“Ohmy,comeon.Followme.”Itrytoliftmyheadtoseewherewe’regoing,butDillon’slarge

handholdsdownmyhead,keepingmeinplace.

“Sheneedsadoctor,”hebarksasacurtainslidesopen,andI’mgentlyplacedonahardmattress.

Wrappinghishandsaroundmyfoot,myeyessqueezeclosed.

“Thedoctorwillberightin,”thewomanmurmursbeforeleaving.
“Baby,lookatme.”Openingoneeyethentheother,IfocusonDillon’sworriedfaceabovemine.
“Stopsnarlingateveryone,”Iwhisper,andhiseyesslideclosedwhilehisforeheaddropstomy

chest.Runningmyfingersthroughhishair,Ipullback,forcinghimtolookatme.“I’mokay.It’sjust
acut.I’llbefine.”

“Iknow,”heagreessoftly.
“Ashlyn.”
“Couldthismorninggetanybetter,”Igroan,knowingthepersonattachedtothatvoice.

“What’sgoingon?”David,myex,asks.
IlookathimandthenDillonashemutters,“Fuckme,”whilerestinghishandagainstmychest,

keepingmedownwhenIattempttositup.

“Areyouthedoctoronduty?”Dillonasks,andDavidlooksbetweenDillonandme.
His brows snap together as his chest puffs out, making me roll my eyes. “I’m a doctor at this

hospital,”heinformsus,likewedon’tknow,whenofcoursewedo.Everyoneintownknowshe’sa
doctor, because he brings it up any time he’s got a chance. But that’s not why I broke up with him.
Nope,webrokeupbecausehethoughtanywomanluckyenoughtosnaghimwouldpraiseJesusfor
hergoodfortune.Notsomuch.Hewasrude,condescending,andabig,fatcheat.

“Getsomeoneelse.”
“Pardon?”Henarrowshiseyes.
“Youheardme.”
“Dillon.”Itrytositupagain,andhiseyessnaptome.
“He’snottouchingyou.”
“Dillon,”IwarnasJaxcomesin,narrowinghiseyesonDavid.
“Whythehellareyouinhere?”
“I’madoctor,”hegrumbles,tuggingonthecollarofhisdressshirt.
“Findsomeoneelsetotakeoverforyou,”Jaxsays,andDillongruntsinagreement.
“Christ.”Icovermyface,lettingoutabreathofannoyance.“I’mgoingtofrickingbleedtodeath

inadamnhospital.”

“Justmoveandletmehavealookather,”DavidsnapsasDillon’shandonmyfoottightens.
“David, what are you doing in here?” A woman wearing a doctor ’s coat frowns at him as she

comesthroughtheopencurtain,followedbythenursewholeftearlier.“You’resupposedtobeoff
duty.”

“Yeah,David.You’resupposedtobeoffduty.”DillonglaresasIrubmyhandsdownmyfacein

frustration.

“We’vegotthiscovered.Youcango,”thenewdoctordismisseshim,takingasteptowardme.“I

hearyou’regoingtoneedsomestitches.”Shesmilessoftly,puttingonapairofglovesasthenurse
rollsoveracartwithsuppliesandbeginstosetupthingsonthetop.

“Idon’tknow,butthere’salotofblood,”Itellher,andshenodsthenmoveshereyesfromthe

handswrappedaroundmyfoot,upthearmsattachedtothosehands,andblinkswhenhereyesmeet
Dillon’s.

“Lord,saveme,”Imutterashereyeswiden,andsheblushes.
“Mywifeneedsadoctor.Areyouadoctor?”Dillongrumbles,andsheclearsherthroat.
“Ye…yes,ofcourse,”shestuttersoutasherblushgrowsdeeper,andhereyesdroptomyfoot.I

can’tevenblameherforherreaction,sinceIhadthesameonewhenIsawDillonforthefirsttime.
“Footinjuriestendtobleedalot.Itmaynotbeasbadasyouthink,”shecontinuesafteramoment,
unwrappingthetowelsthatareswaddlingmyfoot,butshe’swrong,itisthatbad.Andit’snotuntilan
hourandfourstitcheslaterthatI’mfinallysenthomewithanextremelyannoyingoverbearingman,
whoalsohappenstobemyhusband.

Chapter3

Ashlyn

“M

, I’

FINE

. It’s just a few stitches. Dr. Woods assured me I’ll be up and about in just a few

days.”IputmycellonspeakerandsetitnexttomeonthebedasDillongrabsthepillowontheother
sideofme.Leo,whoisn’thappyabouthavinghissleepinterrupted,standsandhisses,battinghispaw
in his direction. Placing the pillow carefully under my foot, he reaches over my legs and runs his
handdownLeo’shairlessback.

Wegothomefromthehospitalalittlelessthananhourago,andwhenwegotbacktomyhouse,

DillondepositedmeonthecouchwhileheandJaxcleanedup.Whiletheywerecleaning,Icouldhear
them talking but couldn’t make out much of anything, which was annoying, since I knew they were
talkingaboutme.Jaxwasstillmadwhenheleft,buttherewasnothingIcoulddoaboutthat.

“Maybeweshouldcomehome,”Momsays,cuttingintomythoughts.
“No!”Ishoutthenlowermytone.“That’snotnecessary.”Ileanbackagainsttheheadboard,taking

the remote from Dillon when he hands it to me. I don’t know if my karma is taking a turn for the
better,butmyparents’triptoFloridacouldn’thavecomeatabettertime.

“Fine,I’llsendamessagetoJaxandlethimknowIexpecthimtolookoutforyouwhilewe’re

away,”shesays,andIpraythatifshetalkstohimhekeepshismouthclosed.Itoldhimbeforeheleft,
after helping Dillon clean up the mess in my room, that if he said one word to Mom or Dad about
DillonandI,IwouldnevertalktohimagainandImeantthat.

“I’m here with Ashlyn,” Dillon says, and I feel my eyes widen before narrowing on him as he

shrugs,pickinguphisbagfromthefloorandsettingitontheendofthebed.

“Dillon’stherewithyou?”Momwhispers,andIletmyheadfallbackasmyeyessqueezetight.
“He’shere,”Iconfirmwithasigh,sinceIobviouslycan’tsayhe’snot.
“Isthereanythingyouwanttotellme?”shequestionssoftly.“Imean,youtwowerejustinVegas

together,andnowhe’satyourhouse?”

“Um.”Ifeelmystomachtwist.Idon’twanttolieaboutthistoher,butIknowthetruthwillhave

herandmydadonaplanebacktoTennesseewithinhours.

“AshandIareseeingeachother,”Dilloncutsinrudely,andIswearifIhadtheabilitytogetout

ofbed,Iwouldkickhisass.Instead,Iopenmyeyesbackupandglareathim.

“Did… did he just say you two are seeing each other?” Mom whispers, apparently losing the

abilitytospeakabovethatdecibel.

“Sorry,Mom,holdonasecond.”IhitmuteandglareatDillon,holdingupmyhand.“Donotsay

anythingelse.”

“I’mnothidingusfromthem,orfromanyone,”hereplies,notevenlookingupfromhisbagas

hedigsthroughit.

“I’mnothidingus,”Ilie,andhisheadlifts.Hiseyesmeetmine,narrowing,makingmefightthe

urgetosquirm.“Idon’twanttotellthemaboutusoverthephone.”

“Fine.”Heshrugs,buthedoesn’tlookfine.Infact,helookspissed.
“Fine,”Imutterback.

Shakinghishead,heliftshishandsoverhisshoulders,pullsoffhisshirt,andthenkicksoffhis

sneakers and shorts before he heads for the bathroom naked, without another glance to where I’m
seated.

“You’rereallyflippingannoying!”Iyell,hearingtheshowerturnon.Gainingnoreplyinreturn,

Itakemyphoneoffmute.“Sorryaboutthat,Mom.”

“So…”
Mybottomlipgoesbetweenmyteeth,andIgrumble,“Yes,we’redating.”
“Honey—”IlookatthephonetomakesureIdidn’tlosethecallwhenshedoesn’tsaymore.
“Mom?”
“YouknowIadoreDillon,butthisisnotokay.He’sengagedtoanotherwoman,”shemurmurs,

andIrollmyeyestowardtheceiling,lettingoutalong,frustratedbreath.

“He’snotwithher.Hehasn’tbeenforawhile.”
“Areyousure?”
God,Ihopeso.Otherwise,Dillonisgoingtodieaverytragicdeath,Ithink,runningmyfingers

overLeo’sheadwhenhepressesagainstmyside.

“I’ll explain everything when you’re home,” I mutter, leaving out the fact I plan on getting her

drunkbeforeItellher,inhopesshedoesn’trememberanythingthenextday.

“Okay,honey,Itrustyou.”
Shit.
“Mom.”Ifakeyawn.“Mypainpillisstartingtokickin.I’mgoingtotakeanap.Iloveyou,and

tellDadIlovehim.”

“Iwill,”sheagreessoftly.“Loveyou.”
Hittingendonthecall,IstareatthebathroomandlistentotheshowerwhileIwaitforDillonto

reappear. I feel like he’s made it perfectly clear that he wants everyone to know about us, but what
abouthisfamily?I’veneverevenheardhimmentionthem.Hearingthewaterturnoff,Iwatchhim
step out of the bathroom with a towel wrapped around his waist a minute later. I lose my train of
thoughtforamomentasIwatchhimputonapairofgrayboxersandwalkacrosstheroomtomy
closet,slidingopenthemirroreddoors,wherehestoredsomeofhisclotheslastnight.

“Whydidyoucutyourhair?”
His eyes come to me over his shoulder, and the look on his face makes my stomach twist with

unease.“Isthatreallywhatyouwanttoaskmerightnow?”

Actually,itisn’t.ButI’mnotsureIwanttoknowtheanswertomyrealquestion,sincethatwould

makethisthingbetweenusevenmorereal.

“I’ve been wondering.” I shrug, and he mutters something I don’t catch then pulls a pair of his

darkslacksoffahangerandstepsintothem,grabbingadarkgraybutton-downshirtandshruggingit
on.

“Areyoumad?”
“Nope.”
“Youseemmad,”Imutterashebuttonsuphisshirt,thengrabshisbeltthatishangingoverthe

backofthechairinthecornerofmyroombeforeheloopsitthroughhiswaistband,tucksinhisshirt,
and buckles his belt. Taking a seat, I watch him put on his shoes without sparing me a glance then
watch him stand and grab his wallet off the dresser near the door, I’m at a loss. This would be the
momentinanyofmypreviousrelationshipswhereIwouldsay,‘Fuckyou,’andnevertalktotheguy
again. But Dillon was right. I can’t do that with him now, not without a crap-ton of paperwork and
maybeevenabrokenheart.

“I’llbeattheoffice.Yourpillsarethere;takeoneandtrytogetsomerest.”Henodstothebedside

table, where he left me a bottle of water and pills, then heads for the door. My stomach twists
uncomfortablyasIwatchhimturntoleave.

“Whenarewegoingtotellyourparentsaboutus?”Iblurtwithoutthinking,andheturnstoface

me,thepaininhiseyescatchingmeoffguard.

“Both my parents are dead,” he states evenly, and before my brain catches up and his words

EELING

THE

BED

shift,IblinkmyeyesopenandfindDillonsittinginthecrookofmylap,softlygazing

at me. I called him multiple times after he left, but he didn’t answer his cell. And when I called the
office,Matt,ournewreceptionist,toldmehewaswithpatients,butalwaysmadesuretoaskifIwas
okay or if it was an emergency. I knew that was Dillon, not Matt. I knew if I played the ‘it’s an
emergency’card,Dillonwouldhaverushedbacktothehouse.

“Hey.” He lifts his hand and slides his fingers softly across my forehead as his eyes follow the

pathofhistouch.

“Hey,” I reply softly, studying him. He doesn’t look angry anymore; he looks apprehensive,

makingmewonderwhathe’sthinking.Scootingback,hishanddropstorestonthebednearmyhip,
andhiseyesscanmyfacebeforemeetingmygazeoncemore.

“Ididn’tknowaboutyourparents.I’mreallysorryforbeinginsensitive,”Iwhisper,andhisface

softens.

“Youweren’tbeinginsensitive.Youdidn’tknow,andIdon’ttalkaboutthemoften…toanyone,”

heconfessesgentlyandInod,chewingtheinsideofmycheek.

“Willyoutellmeaboutthem?”Iquestiondelicatelywhenhedoesn’tsaymore.Hisfacesoftens

further,andhekicksoffhisshoesandclimbsupnexttomeonthebed,tuckingmeintohisside.

“MymomsnamewasLaceyandmydadwasPaul,theymetatsummercampwhenmymomwas

fourteenandmydadwassixteen.Theydislikedeachotherfromthemomenttheymet.Mymomwas
outgoing, happy, and the center of attention, while my dad was uptight, high-strung, and slightly
antisocial.”Ihearthesmileinhistone,andIsmilealittlemyself,thinkingtheysoundalotlikeus.
“Boththeirparentssentthembacktothesamecampeverysummer,andeverysummer,theanimosity
betweenmymomanddadgrewalittlemore.”

“Andthentheyfellinlove?”Itiltmyheadbackandlookathim,andheshakeshishead.
“No,theyeventuallygottoooldforsummercampandforgotabouteachother.”
“Oh,”Imutter,thinkingthat’satotalletdown.HisarmsgivemeasqueezeandIhearhimchuckle

beforehislipstouchthetopofmyhead.

“Whenmymomwastwenty-twoandmydadwastwenty-four,theymetagainataparty.Mymom

wasgoingtoWellesley,andmydadwasgoingtoHarvard,whentheyranintoeachother.Momwas
drunkandspiltherdrinkonhim,”hesays,andIgiggle,pressingmyforeheadtohischest,picturing
his dad’s face and imagining it looked a lot like Dillon’s. “My dad hadn’t changed at all. He was
pissedanddemandedmymompayforhisshirttobedry-cleaned.”

“Didshetellhimwheretoshoveit?”Ismile.
“Yeah.”Helaughs,runninghishandoverthetopofmyhead.“Thatdidnotgooverwellwithmy

dad.Heleftthepartyandwentbacktohisdorm.Thenextday,hetookhisshirttothedry-cleaners
thentrackeddownmymom’saddressandsentherthebill.”

“Oh,Lord,Iseewhereyougetyourpersonalityfrom,”Imurmur,feelinghischestshakeunder

mycheek.

“Thedayshegotthebillinthemail,shewenttohisdorm.”
“GoMom.”Iwhisper,tuckingmyhandundermycheek.“Theyhadablowoutfightinthemiddle

of campus. My dad, hating the attention, gave in and told her just to leave, that he didn’t want her
money.Shedidleave.Shetookoff,onlyshedidn’tgobacktoherschoolrightaway.Instead,shewent
tothedry-cleanersandpickeduphisshirt.”

“Yourmomwasawesome.”
“Shewas,”heagreessoftly,runninghisfingersthroughmyhair.“Whenmydadwenttogethis

shirt,hefoundoutithadalreadybeenpickedup,andheknewitwasher.Hethoughtshewasinsane.”

“Buthelikedher,didn’the?”
“Hedidn’tknowhowhefeltaboutheruntilthefall,whenmymomgraduatedfromWellesleyand

started at Harvard Law School, and they ran into each other again. My dad swore my mom did
everything within her power to annoy him. She would always stop to talk to him, always do crazy
thingstogethisattentionorbughim.”

“Andhefellinlovewithher.”
“Hedid,butmymomwashavingnoneofit.Shegavehimarunforhismoney.Ittookayearfor

him to catch her. She wasn’t exactly easy to hold onto, but my dad persevered and one thing led to
another.Theystarteddatingthenmovedintogether,gotmarried,graduatedcollege,andhadParker
andme.”

“Parker ’syourbrother?”
“Yeah,you’llmeethim.”Hesqueezesmeagainandmystomachfillswithbutterflies.“He’sfive

yearsolderthanmeandlivesinChicagowithhiswifeandsons.Hewasadoctor,butafterheandhis
wifehadtwins,hedecidedtostayhome,andhiswife,whoisaplasticsurgeon,works.”

“Whataboutyourdad?Yourmomwasinlaw.Whatwashe?”
“Mydadwasadentist.”
“Isthatwhyyouwantedtobeadentist?”Iask,tiltingmyheadbackcatchinghissmile.
“No.”Hechuckles.“Iwantedtobealawyer.”
“Icouldseeyouasalawyer.”Hesmiles,andIquestion,“Sowhydidyoubecomeadentistthen?”
“Afterheandmymompassed,IgotintoHarvard.Idecidedlawwasn’tforme,soIfollowedin

Dad’sfootstepsinstead.”

“I’msurebothofthemwouldbeproudofyou.”
“I’msuretheywouldtoo,”hemutters,droppingakisstothetopofmyhead.
“CanIaskwhathappenedtothem?”Iquestionafteramoment,andhisholdonmetightens.
“TheywerecominghomefromaNewYearsEveparty.Myfatherhadbeendrinkingandinsisted

hewassoberenoughtodrive.Hewasn’t,ormaybehewas.Theircarhitapatchofblackice,wentoff
thesideoftheroad,androlleddownaravine.Theybothdiedinstantly.”Hearingthat,Iwonderhow
muchthatchangedwhohewas.Ican’timaginehowatragedylikethatwouldaffectsomeone.

“I’msosorry.”
“Metoo.”Herestshismouthatthetopofmyhead,thenwhispers,“Yourfamilyremindsmealot

ofhowmyfamilywasbefore.”

Thatmakeshearthurtforhim.Idon’tsayanythingelseoraskanymorequestions.Instead,Ilay

thereholdinghimforalongtime,withmyeartohischest,listeningtothesoundofhisheartsolong
that my pain pill wears off completely and my stomach growls, reminding me I haven’t eaten
anythingsincethefewcrackersIhadthisafternoon.

“Doyouwanttoorderin?”Helaughs,hearinganotherloudgrowlcomefrommystomach,andI

nodagainsthischest.

“Chinese,ifthat’sokaywithyou.”
“Thatworks.Whendidyoutakeyourlastpill?”heaskswhenIwinceashegetsoffthebed.
“Alittleafteryouleftthismorning,”Iadmit,watchinghimstripoffhisdressshirtandslacksand

putonapairoflooseworkoutpants.

“Youshouldn’twaitsolongbetweentotakethem.”
“It’snotthatbad.Justalittlepain,nothingIcan’thandle.”
“It’snotsomethingyouneedtohandle,”hegrumbles,puttingonaform-fittingwhitetee.
“Theymakemetired.Idon’twantmysleepingscheduletogoallwonky,sincetomorrowIplan

ongoingbacktowork.”

“You’renotworkingtomorrow.”
“Iam.”
“You’renot,”hedisagrees,shakinghishead,andIletoutanannoyedbreath.
“Idon’twanttofightwithyourightnow.”
“We’renotfighting.I’mtellingyouthatyou’renotworkingtomorrow.Youneedtokeepoffyour

footsoithastimetoheal.”

“Isitmostoftheday.Itwillbefine,Dillon.”
“Yes,itwillbe,sinceyou’restayinghome.”
“Doeseverythingwithyouhavetobeanargument?”Iquestion,tossingmylegsoverthesideof

thebedsoIcanstand.

“You’retheonewholovestoargue,babe.Thiswouldn’tevenbeanissuerightnowifyou’djust

listentome.”

“You’reright.Youdon’tliketoargue.Youjustliketobossmearound,tellmewhattodo,and

then get pissed when I don’t listen. Even better,” I huff, standing carefully, making sure to keep the
pressureoffmyfoot,andthenIgraboneofthecrutchesleaningagainstmybedsidetable.

“Yougotfourstitchesinyourfootthismorning,fourstitchesthatneedtimetohealproperly.I’m

notbossingyouaround.I’mconcernedaboutyourwellbeing.”

“Fine, I won’t work tomorrow, but only because I don’t want to,” I grumble, making sure he

knowsit’snothischoicebutmine.

“Good,”hemutters,thenlooksatthecrutchundermyarmandfrowns.“Whereareyougoing?”
“Thebathroomthenthelivingroom,sowecaneatthere.”
“Wecouldeatinhere.”Henodstothebed,butIshakemyhead.
“Noeatinginmybed.”
“No eating in your bed?” He raises a brow, and I really wish I didn’t find him so attractive,

especiallywhenI’mannoyedwithhim.

“Idon’tliketosleeponcrumbs.”
Smiling,hetakesastepclosertomeandplacesakisstomyforehead,mutteringthere,“I’llmeet

youinthelivingroomwiththemenu.”

“IknowwhatIwant.ShouldItextittoyou?”Iask,grabbingmycell.
“IthinkIcanremember.”
“Okay.Peanutnoodles,frieddumplings,eggrolls,hotandsoursoup,ginger—”
“I’llwaitforyoutocomeouttocall,”hecutsmeoff,smiling.“Doyouwantmetohelpyouinto

thebathroom?”

“Nope, I got it.” I limp, using my crutch, and head for the bathroom, ignoring the fact that he

followsbehindmeuntilI’minsideandhaveshutthedoor.OnceI’mdonetakingcareofbusiness,I
washmyhandsandopenthedoor,notatallsurprisedthathe’sstandingoutsidethedoorwaitingon

me.“ItoldyouI’mokay.”

“IknowIjustwantedtomakesure.”Heshrugstakingmycrutchfromme,leaningitagainstthe

wallnexttothebathroom,beforescoopingmeupintohisarms.

“Icanwalk,”Ihalfheartedlyinformhimwhilewrappingmyarmsaroundhisneck.
“YoucanwalktomorrowwhenI’mnothometocarryyou,”hesays,carryingmetothecouchin

thelivingroomwherehesettlesmeagainsthissideasheplacestheorderforChinesefood.

Unloading the bag of Chinese food the delivery guy dropped off twenty minutes later, I watch

Dilloncomebackwithplatesandforks,takingaseatnexttomeonthecouch.

“Areyougoingtoreallyeatallofthat?”heasks,andIturntolookathimandnod.
“Notallofitrightnow,butyes.Betweentonightandtomorrowforbreakfast,noneofitwillgoto

waste.”

“I’ve never seen a woman eat as much as you do,” he states, and my hand lingers over my

styrofoamdishcontainingpeanutnoodles.

“Isthatbad?”
“No,Ilikethatyoueat.Ilikethatyou’renotafraidtoeatinfrontofme.”
“Oh.”Imovemyhandtohiscontainerofbeefandbroccoliandbrownrice,andhandittohim,

holdinghisstareashetakesitfromme.“Iworkout,”Iinformhim,notsurewhyIfeeltheneedtotell
himthat,butI’msuddenlyuncomfortablewithhiscomment.

Setting his container of food on the table, he leans forward and takes hold of my chin. “You’re

beautiful,Ashlyn.Youcouldweighahundredpoundsmoreandyou’dstillbegorgeous.I’dstillbe
attractedtoyou.”

Studyinghim,Icanseehe’sbeingsincere,andthosestupidbutterfliestakeflightoncemoreasmy

bodyleansintohistouch.

I’veneverneededamantotellmeI’mbeautiful,topayformymeals,opendoors,ortakecareof

me,buthavinghimdothosethingsisplayinghavocwithmyemotionsandmakingmepraythisthing
betweenusworksout.

“Whatareyouthinkingrightnow?”hequestionssoftly.
ThatI’mstupidlyfallinginlovewithyou.
“Idon’tknow,”Ilie,lookingintohisbeautifuleyesandwonderingwhathe’sthinking.
“Hmm,” he hums, leaning in and touching his mouth to mine briefly. “Let’s eat before all your

foodiscold.”

“Okay,”Iagree,butinsteadofdoingthesmartthing,Ileanforwardandpressmymouthtohis,

sweeping my tongue across his lips. The instant I do, his hold on my chin tightens, his free hand
slidesintomyhair,andhetakesoverthekiss,sweepinghistongueintomymouth.Idon’tknowhow
longwemakeout,butbythetimewegetaroundtoeating,ourfoodiscold.

“G

BACK

bed,”DillonbossesasIleanagainstthefrontdoor.

Rollingmyeyesatthat,Igrumble,“IalreadytoldyouIwould.”Ijustcatchhislipstipup,which

annoys the hell out of me. He knows he’s won. Then again, he’s won for the last week. I haven’t
workedallweeklong,andtodayismylastdayathome.Myfootismuchbetter.Icanputweightonit
withoutwincing,andIdon’tneedtotakethepillsIwasprescribedanymoretodealwiththepain.

“IhavetostopatmyplacewhenIgetoffworktopicksomestuffup.Doyouwantmetobring

dinnerhome?”

Home. Okay, that word makes those pesky butterflies take flight again, but I shouldn’t be

surprised.He’scallingthishomesincehe’sbeenherewithmeeverynight.

“Um,Imaytrytocook,”Imurmur,watchingafamiliarcarpullintomyseconddriveway.
“I’llcheckinonyoutoday,beforethen.”
“Okay.”
“Okay,” he repeats softly, dipping his face and brushing his lips over mine once, twice, then a

thirdtime,slidinghistongueacrossmylips,makingmemoan.Ilatchontohisdressshirt,andhis
handonmyasssqueezes.IhavenoideahowmuchlongerIwillbeabletoholddownthenosexrule.
Everytimehetouchesme,mywholebodybegsformore,andit’snothelpingthatwearesharinga
bedandhewalksaroundhalfnakedmostofthetime.

“I’ll see you tonight,” he speaks against my mouth, giving my ass another squeeze before

saunteringoffdownthestepstohiscar.Watchinghisassindarkslacks,hisbroadshoulderscovered
inaburgundydressshirt,andhisconfidentgait,Iholdmybreath.Idefinitelywon’tbeabletohold
outmuchlonger.

“Um…whatthehellwasthat?”Michelle,myverybestfriendinthewholewideworld,asksfrom

thesidewalkwithherhandsonherhipsandherbrowsarched.Itotallyforgotaboutseeinghercar
pullinamomentago.She’sbeenawaywithherboyfriend,Luka,visitinghisfamilyinColorado,and
wehaven’treallytalkedsinceshe’sbeengone.

“Um…”
“Donot‘um’me,woman.Areyouinsane?ThatwasDillontheDick,withhistonguedownyour

throatandhandsonyourass.”Sheswivelsherhead,watchingDillonbackhisshinyblackMercedes
outofthedriveandontotheroad.“Youhavesomeexplainingtodo,”shehisses,tossingherlongred
hairoverhershoulderwhilestompingtowardmeonherwedge-coveredfeet,andIcringe.

Ican’tlietoher.Idon’tevenwanttolietomyparentsaboutthis.Assheforcesmebackintothe

house,Iletherinandclosethedoorbeforeturningtofaceher.

“Spillitnow.Obviously,yourrelationshipwithhimhaschanged.”
“ImayhavemarriedhiminVegas,”Isayquietly,andsheblinks.
“What?”Shepressesherhandagainstthewalldramatically,likesheneedsittoholdherup.“Did

youjustsayyoumarriedhiminVegas?”

“Maybe.”Ishrug,andsheslidesdownthewalltothefloorandrollstoherback.
“I knew this would happen. I knew it, I knew it, I knew it.” She laughs, kicking her legs up and

downlikeatoddlerthrowingafit.

“Whenyou’redone,I’llbeinthekitchen,”Imutter,movingaroundheranddownthehalltoward

thekitchensoIcanputsomefoodoutforLeo,whohasbeeninhidingallmorning.

Coming around the corner a second later, she climbs up on one of the barstools and grabs a

bananafrommyfruitdish—whichhadalwaysbeenemptyuntilDillonstartedstayinghere.“Please
tellmehehasabigpenis.”

“Howareyoumybestfriend?”IscoopoutLeo’sfoodintoadishandsetitonthegroundinhis

spot.

Takingabiteofherbanana,shechewsandswallowsthenpointstheuneatenportionatme.“As

yourbestfriend,Ineedtoknowyouaremarriedtoamanwhohasabigpenis.”

“Youdon’tseemtothinkit’sabigdealthatImarriedhim.”
“You guys have been pussy-footing around each other forever. I knew it would happen.” She

shrugs.“Nowanswermyquestion.”

“Yes.”

“Yeswhat?”Shesmirks,andIrollmyeyes.
“Yes,hehasabigpenis.Areyouhappy?”
“Notreally,sincehissuper-sizedpenisandhotnessisn’tmine,butI’mhappyforyou.”
“Areyoureally?”Iwhisper,andherbrowneyessoften.
“Very. He’s the only man I know who’s ever made you feel any kind of emotion besides your

family.Anyotherguy,youcouldn’tcarelesswhattheythink.Tome,thatsaysalot.”

“It’swaytoofast.”
“Yeah.” She nods. “I mean, I thought you two would end up together, but I had no idea you’d

marryhimbeforeactuallydatinghim.”

“Ididn’tplanit.”
“Ibetnot,MissADD,butthenagain,someofthebestthingsinlifeareunplanned.”
“Iguesswe’llfindout.SohowwasyourtripwithLuka?”
“Amazing,”shebreathes,restingherchininthepalmofherhandsandIblink.
“Isthat…IsthatwhatIthinkitis?”Iwhisper,pointingatthegiantrockonherfinger.
“Thislittlething?”Sheholdsupherhand,thenscreams,“I’mgettingmarried!”
“Oh,myGod,youfinallysaidyes!”Ishout,launchingmyselfacrosstheislandandgrabbingher

hand. “Holy shit, he did good.” I study the large princess-cut diamond surrounded by smaller
sapphires.It’sperfectforher.

“Ifyoulikeit,thenyoubetterputaringonit.”Shegiggles,andIlaughrightalongwithher.
“You’re getting married.” Tears fill my eyes, and I move around the island, wrapping her in a

hug.Noonedeserveshappymorethanshedoes.Noone.

“Willyoubemymaidofhonor?”
“Ifyoueventhinkofaskinganyoneelse,I’llkillyou.”
“I would never.” She rocks me back and forth then pulls away. “I’m pissed I didn’t get to be at

yourwedding.”

“Idon’tevenreallyrememberit,honestly.”Ilaugh,andsheshakesherheadthenhereyeswiden.
“Doesyourdadknowyougotmarried?”
“NooneexceptJaxknows.IhavenoideahowI’mgoingtotellthem,”Isigh,lettinghergo.
“Oh,God,Idonotenvyyourightnow.Yourdadisgoingtolosehismindwhenhefindsouthis

babygotmarried.”She’sright;mydadwilllosehismind.He’salwaysbeenprotectiveofmeandhas
hatedeveryguyI’veeverdated.

“Iknow,”Ihuff,movingtositonthestoolnexttohers.“DillontoldmymomthatheandIare

dating.Idon’tknowifmymomjusthasn’ttoldmydadorwhat,buthehasn’taskedmeaboutitwhen
we’vetalked.”

“Knowingyourmomanddad,she’stoldhimandhe’stryingtofigureouthowhefeelsaboutit.

HelikesDillon.Theyalwaystalkwheneveryourfamilyinviteshimtofunctions.Herespectshim.”

Sheesh,howcouldIforgetthat?SincealmostthemomentDilloncameintomylife,he’sbeenat

allofmyfamilygatherings,andheandmydaddogetalong.Theyarealwaysoffchattingwhenthey
are together. It used to annoy me, but now I’m wondering if it is something that will work in my
favor.

“You’reright.”
“I’malwaysright,andonceagain,IwasrightaboutyouandDillon.Itoldyouhehadthehot’sfor

you.”

Shedidtellmethatallthedamntime,andIalwaysignoredit,neverevenwantingtothinkitwas

possiblytrue.“Whatever.Soareyounotworkingtoday?”

“Ihaveafewshowingsthisafternoon,andaclosingatfive.Whyareyounotatwork?”
“This.”Iliftmyfootandherfacescrunchesup.Thewoundishealed,butthestitchesarestillin

place,andthebruisinghasturnedanuglyshadeofyellow.

“Whatthehellhappened?”
“JaxgotinafightwithDillon.Theybrokemylamp,andwhenItriedtobreakthemup,Isliced

myfootopen.”

“Havewenotspokeninthepastweek?”Shefrowns,andIshrug.
“Wehave,butnotmuch.”
“Apparently.”
“SoI’mguessingwhatJennasaidaboutDillon’sexwastrue?”
“Yeah,Idon’tknow.”Idropmyheadtothecountertop.Icompletelyforgotthatafewmonthsago,

MichelletoldmeJenna,amutualfriendwhoworksattheairport,helpedtheshe-bitchfromhellget
on a flight back to New York after Dillon broke up with her. At the time, I didn’t believe it since
DillonnevermentioneditandJennatendstolieabouteverything.

“Itwillbeokay.”Sherubsmyback,andIturnmyforehandonthecountertolookather.
“Hetoldmethathehastoexplaintomeabouttheirrelationship.”
“What?”
“I don’t know. Every time he’s tried to bring it up, I’ve lost my mind. Like, literally… lost my

mind.Eventhementionofhernamepissesmeoffandmakesmeseered.”

“Jealousy.”
“Yeah,andI’veneverfeltthatemotionbefore,soIdon’tknowhowtodealwithit.”
“You’llgetusedtoit.”
“It’snotsomethingIwanttogetusedto.Idon’tlikefeelinglikethat.”
“Sotalktohim.”
Snorting,Iliftmyhead.“Yeah,atsomepointI’llgrowsomeballsandhearhimout.Ijustdon’t

knowwhenthatwillbe.”

“Don’tletitgotoolong.Ifyouwantthistoworkwithhim,youneedtoknowshe’soutofhislife

andhearwhyshewasinitinthefirstplace,whentheyobviouslydidn’tsuiteachother.”

“Youdon’tthinktheydid?”Iquestion,runningmyhandoverthecoldcountertop.
“No,he’snice,andshemakestheicequeenseemtame.Ionlysawthemtogetherafewtimes,andI

definitelyneversawhimtouchherlikeIsawhimtouchyouthismorning.”

“Ineversawhimtouchhereither,”Imutter,wonderingwhatthehellthat’sabout.
“Justaskhimaboutit.”
“Iwill,”Iagree.
“Ishouldgo.”Shehopsdownoffthestool.“Ineedtopickupsomegroceriesandtakethemhome

beforeIhavetomeetmyfirstclient.”

“Sure.”Ifollowherdownthehalltowardthefrontdoor.
“Weshoulddodinnerwiththeguysthisweekend.”
“I’lltalktoDillon,”Iconcur,givingherahugbeforesteppingbackandopeningthedoor.
“Callme.Loveyou.”
“Loveyoutoo.”Iwait,watchinghergetintohercar,thenshutthedoorandheadbacktoliving

room,whereIplopdownonthecouchandwonderifIwillhavethegutstotalktoDillonbeforeit’s
toolate.

Chapter4

Ashlyn

EING

CAREFUL

NOT

tocutmyself,Ising,“FuzzyWuzzywasabear.FuzzyWuzzyhadnohair.Fuzzy

Wuzzywasn’tveryfuzzy,washe?”andlistentothesoundofmyvoicebounceoffthewallsaround
me.It’sbeentendayssinceIwasabletoenjoyanormalshower,andI’mlovingeverysecondofit.
Humming the end, I scream as the shower curtain is ripped open and Dillon’s eyes scan over me,
leavingmefrozeninplace.

“Babe,seriously?”Helaughs,andmybrainkicksinasIscrambleoffthebenchIwassittingon

while shaving my vagina and attempt to cover myself, smearing shaving cream everywhere in the
process.

“Oh,myGod!Whatareyoudoing?Youcan’tjustcomeinhere!”Iscreech,bendingatthewaist

inanattempttohideasmuchofmyselfasIcan.

“Ithinktherealquestioniswhydoyouhaveathemesongforshavingyourvagina?And”—he

holdsuphishand,pointingathisfingerandthebandthere—“you’remywife.Icandowhateverthe
fuckIwantwhenitcomestoyou.”

“Getout!”Ishout,knowingit’spointlesstoargue,sinceeverytimeIdo,hegoesoverthetopon

meandforcesmetoadmitwearemarried.

“Ineedashower.”Heliftshishandsbehindhisheadandpullsoffhisshirt.
Squeezing my eyes closed, I growl, “You are not getting in here with me.” Feeling my core

tightenatjustthethought,Ican’ttakemuchmoreofthisself-inducedtorture.Everytimehe’scloseto
me,itmakesithardnottogiveintomybodyandjumphim.

“Whyareyoureyesclosed?”Ifeelhisheatatmybackandhisteethniptheskinofmyneckashe

slideshishandsaroundme,pullingmeflushagainsthim.

Hisarousalbumpsagainstme,andIbegsilentlyformercy.“Dillon.”
“Hmm?”hebreathesagainstmyneck,coastinghisfingersdownmystomach.“Areyousmooth

now?”God,Idon’tknow.Ican’tevenrememberhowmuchshavingIgotdonebeforeheinterrupted
me,butIthinkIatleastgotmyselfcleanedupenoughsoit’snolongerajungledownthere.“Areyou
wet?”

“I’mintheshower,soyes,”Istate,tryingtosoundmad,butthemoanthatescapesprovesI’ma

liar.

Hisfreehandmovesuptotweakmynipple,sendingaboltofpleasurethroughme.“IguessI’ll

justhavetofindoutformyself.”Henipsmyearlobethenlicksdownthecolumnofmythroat,biting
my shoulder while his fingers slide between my folds and over my clit, causing my hips to jerk
forward.I’mlostinhim.Completelylostinhim—hismouthonmyneck,hishandatmybreast,his
fingersbetweenmylegs.Iwillgivehimanythinghewantsrightnow,aslongashedoesn’tstopwhat
he’sdoing.

“Oh,God,”Imoanasonefingerslidesinsideofme.
“NotGod.”Henipsmyneckhard,thrustingtwofingersdeep.“Yourhusband.”
MyheadfallsbackagainsthisshoulderasIridehisfingers.IknewImissedhistouch,butdidn’t

knowhowmuchuntilrightnow.Histhumbrollsovermyclitandhishandatmybreastsqueezes.

“You’reclose.”
Iam.Idon’tknowhowheknowsthat,butIam…soclose.Hishipsshiftandhishardcockslides

betweenmylegsfrombehind,makingmylegsalmostbuckle.

“Putyourhandsonthewallinfrontofyou,”hebreathesagainsttheshellofmyear.
I don’t even think. My hands shoot out in front of me, my palms slapping against the cold tile

hard.Hishandbetweenmylegsslidesaroundmyhipandovermyass.Iknowwhat’scomingandmy
bottom lip goes between my teeth, biting down in anticipation. It feels like an eternity, and then the
headofhiscockbumpsmyentrance.

“Yes.”Ipressmyassbacktowardhim,offeringmyselfup,notcaringoneiotahowdesperateI

appearrightnow.

“Fuck.” He slides in slowly, wrapping my hip in a firm hold and keeping me in place. “So

goddamntight.Sofuckingwet.”Hepullsoutaninchandslidesbackintwo.

“Pleasehurry,”Ipant.Ican’ttakemuchmoreofthis.NowthatI’vefelthimagain,Ineedhim,all

ofhim.Hismouthdropstomyshoulderandhistongueglidesacrossanduptomyearasheslides
fullyinsideofme.Hisbreathskimsmyearashishandatmyhipmovesforwardbetweenmylegs
oncemore.“Isthisgood?”

“Yes.”Idon’tevenlie.Thereisnopoint;Ihavenodoubthecanfeelexactlywhatitishedoesto

me.

He doesn’t move once he’s planted deep inside of me. His forehead drops to my shoulder, his

chestpressingagainstmybackheavesashisheartbeatsrapidlyagainstmyskin.“Youundome.”He
slides his hand down my arm and it covers mine against the tile as his mouth drags across my
shoulder.Hisfingersbetweenmylegsmove,makingmycoretightenaroundhim.“Mine.”Thatone
wordspokenagainstmywetskinmakesmylegsweak.Slidingoutthenbackin,hisfingerslacewith
mine.“Kissme.”

Iturnmyheadwithoutthinking,andhistongueslidesagainstmineonaninwardstroke.Moaning

aroundhistongue,hegrowlsaroundmine,speedinguphisfingerswhilehestrokesinandoutofme
withprecision,hittingthatspotdeepinsidemethatsendsajoltofpleasureandpaininasolidtempo
ofecstasy.

“I’vemissedthis,”Ibreathewithoutthinking.Hisbodystillsforamomentbeforehepullsoutand

thrustsinhard,makingmegasp.

“Nomorekeepingthisfromme.”Histoneisn’toneI’veheardfromhimbeforeandIwanttolean

backandsearchhisface,butbeforeIcan,hisfingerscircleovermyclitfasterandfaster,makingme
loseallcoherentthoughtashesendsmehurlingovertheedgeintoanorgasmthattakesmybreath
away.BeforeI’veevencaughtmybreath,hespinsmearoundandliftsmetorestagainstthecooltile.
“Legstight.”

Mylegsaroundhishipswraptighter.Takingmyhandsfromhisshoulders,hepullsthemabove

myhead,pinningthemtherewithoneofhis.Thrustinghard,hesendsmeslidingupthewallthendips
hisheadtocatchmybreastinhismouth,suckingandskimminghisteethovermynipple.

Myheadfallsbackagainstthetileashemovestomyotherbreast,doingthesameafteraslideout

andadeepslidein.“Dillon,”Ipant,diggingmynailsintohishand.

“Lovethat,”hemutters,takingmymouthinapunishingkiss,droppingmyhandsandgrabbing

myassinbothhislargepalms.

“I…”
“I’mwithyou.Comewithme,”hebreathesagainstmymouth,cuttingmeoff.Usinghishandsat

myass,heliftsanddropsmealonghislength,eachstrokemakingmeseestars.IknowwhenIfallit’s
going to kill me. Wrapping my arms and legs tightly around him, I press my forehead to his and
comeonashoutasheroarshisreleaseagainstmymouth.Westaylikethat,breathingheavilyagainst
eachother ’smouths,kissingsoftlyandrunningourhandsovereachother ’swetskinuntilthewater
startstoturncold.

“We need to get out,” he grumbles, kissing me once more before releasing his hold on me and

forcingmetoslidedownhiswetbody.Turningofftheshower,hesendsmeoutaheadofhimwitha
taponmybottom.

Gettingout,Igrabatowelformyselfandoneforhim,andstarttodryoff,wantingtojustgoplop

downinbed,butthereisnothingworsethantheideaofhavingtosleeponwetsheetslatertonight.

“How much time do you need to get ready to go out?” His arms wrap around me from behind,

andItiltmyheadtothesidetolookathim.

“Aboutanhour.Ihavetodrymyhair.”Tonight,wearehavingdinnerwithMichelle,Luka,Jax,

andEllie.I’mstillannoyedwithJax,ormaybehe’sannoyedwithme,sowehaven’ttalkedmuch.But
Dillon saw him yesterday and told him he and Ellie should come out to dinner with us, and Jax
agreed.Ijusthopetonightisnotahugedramafest.Ilovemybrother;Ilovehiswifeanddaughter,
butIrefusetoletanyoneruinthisthingbetweenDillonandme.

Wait,what?Ifreeze,wonderingwherethatthoughtcamefrom.
“Sowecangonapforabit?”Henuzzlesmyneck,makingmelosemytrainofthoughtashelifts

meintohisarmsandcarriesmetothebed.

Andforonceinmylifeashecrawlsinbehindme,Idon’tcarethatmyhairissoakingmypillow

andsheets.

“A

SHLYN

.”E

LLIE

SMILES

,standingfromthetablewhenshespotsusacrosstherestaurant.AssoonasI’m

close,shewrapsmeinahug,whispering,“I’msohappyforyou,andIthinkeveryoneelsewillbe
too.”God,Ireallyhopeshe’sright.

“I hope so,” I say aloud, squeezing her back, then I let her go and look at Jax, who is standing

behindher.

“Comehere.”HeholdsouthisarmsandImoverighttohim,givinghimatighthug.“YouknowI

loveyou,sis,”hemuttersagainstmyhair,andtearsstingmynose.

“Iknow.Iloveyoutoo,”Iagree,lettinghimgo,thenturnwhenMichellecomessashayingtoward

thetable,followedbyLuka.

“Oh,myGod.Wheredidyougetthatdress?Ineedonejustlikeit.”ShewhistlesandIlookdown

at my dress, ignoring Dillon’s grumble behind me, since I heard his annoying dislike of the dress
afterIputitonatthehouse.Actually,hetotallylovedthedress;Ithinkhehadmepinnedagainstthe
walltwosecondsafterseeingmeinit.Hejustdidn’tliketheideaofmewearingitoutofthehouse,
butohwell.

“NordstromRack.”Ismile.Ilovemydress,withitsV-necklacehalter,deepcutintheback,tight

bodice,andpleatedskirt.

“You are not getting a dress like that,” Luka says from behind her, and she rolls her eyes,

wrappingmeinahugasDillonsayssomethingagreeingwithhim.

“Luka.” I smile warmly once Michelle has let me go then launch myself at him, wrapping my

armsaroundhishuge,muscularwaist,andtrytopickhimup.Ifailmiserably,buthisgrinisenough

ofarewardashepressesakisstothetopofmyhead.

“I’msohappyforyoutwo,”Itellhim,andhisgrinbroadens.
“It’sabouttimesheagreedtomarryme.”Heeyessoftenovermyhead,andIknowhe’slookingat

Michelle.Lukawasaplayerbeforeher,butsomehowshewrappedhimaroundhertinylittlefinger
within a week of dating, he’s been asking her forever to marry him. Laughing, I step back to stand
nexttoDillonandfeelhishandagainsttheexposedskinofmyback.

“Luka, Dillon. Dillon, this is Luka,” I introduce them, since Dillon knows everyone else at the

table.

“Igottasaythisandgetitoutoftheway,sowecanrelaxandenjoydinner.Youhurtourgirl,andI

willpersonallykillyou,”hestates,completelystraight-faced,andIfeelmyeyeswiden.Lookingupat
Dillon to see his reaction, I almost fall over when he nods and takes Luka’s hand in a firm shake.
“Now,that’soutoftheway.Ineedabeer.”HesmilesatDillonthenchucksmeundermychinwithhis
fist.

Iexpectittobeawkwardafterthat,butassoonaswesitandthewaitercomesover,theguyseach

orderabeerandusgirlsorderabottleofwinetoshare,alongwithappetizerstomunchonwhilewe
waitforourfood.

“Fuck,”Michellesays,andIturntolookatherwithmyfriedmozzarellawedgehalfwaytomy

mouth.

“What?”
“Yourex.”
“What?”Ifrownthenturnmyheadandcatchmyex,Josh,headingtowardourtable.
“Oh, great,” I grumble, setting my uneaten cheesy wedge of goodness on my plate. Josh and I

datedabouteightmonthsagoandhadapproximatelytwo-point-twodatesbeforeIendedthingswith
him.Hereallydidn’tdoanythingtome;hewasjustannoying.

“Ashlyn, I thought that was you,” he greets, coming to stand at the table near my side. I tilt my

headbacktolookathim,thensqueakwhenDillongrabsmychairandslidesmesocloseImayas
wellbeonhislap.

“Hi,Josh.”
“Howareyou?”heasks,tuckinghishandsintothefrontpocketsofhisjeans.
“Reallygood,andyou?”
“Good,good.”Henodsthenlooksaroundthetable,smilingateveryoneandsayinghi.“Mymom

andIareactuallymovingtoKnoxvillenextweekend.”

Okay, so maybe there were a few reasons why I stopped seeing him besides the fact he was

annoying.Healsolivedwithhismomandstillhadhercooking,doinghislaundry,andcleaningup
afterhim.Sheevenfilledhiscarupwithgaswhenitneededit.

“That’sgreat.”
“Yeah, it really is.” He nods then tucks his hands farther into his pockets, making his shoulders

shootforward.“Iwasgoingtocallyoutosee—”

“You’renotcallingher,”Dilloncutsin,andIhearsomeone,probablyMichelle,giggle.
“Uh…what?”Joshfrowns,pullinghiseyesfrommetolookatDillon.
“You’renotcallingher.There’snothingforyoutwototalkabout.Now,ifyoucouldstepaway

fromthetable,we’reinthemiddleofdinner,”Dilloncontinues,andmyshouldersstiffen.Icouldn’t
carelessaboutJosh,butthereisnoreasonforhimtobesoharsh.

“Oh.Yeah,sorryaboutthat.Ididn’tthink.”Helooksatme,andIgivehimaweaksmile,becauseI

havenoideawhatelsetodo.“Seeyouaround.”

“Youwon’t,”Dillonmutters.“Bye,”Isay,watchinghimmovebackthroughtherestaurant.
“You know Ash has dated a lot, right?” Jax asks, and I turn to look at my brother, wondering

wherethehellhe’sgoingwiththatstatement.“Yougonnadothattoallofherexes?”Heliftshischin
inthedirectionJoshjustleft.

“Maybe.”Dillonshrugs,andIbitetheinsideofmycheek.Feelingeyesonme,Iturntolookat

Michelle,whoissittingnexttoEllie,andtheybothhavebrightsmilesontheirfaces.

“You’regonnabebusy,”Jaxsaysquietly,wrappinghisarmaroundEllie,whorollshereyesbut

cuddlesintohim.

“Iknow,”Dillonsays,andmyinsidestwist.
“I’vehadenoughofthattolastalifetime,”Lukaputsin,andMichelleturnstoglareathim.“Just

sayin’,baby.YouandAshhaverunthemeninthistownthroughtheringer.”

“Excuseme?”Michellevoicesmyquestion,buthe’sright.I’vedatedalot,probablytoomuch,but

whatwasIsupposedtodo?Howelseisagirlsupposedtofindthemanshewantstospendtherestof
herlifewith?Ican’thelpthatmosteveryguyisanidiot.

Feeling fingers trail lightly down the skin of my back, I turn my eyes to Dillon, seeing his

worried ones looking back at me. I don’t know if he’s worried I’m pissed, or that Luka is right.
Leaningcloser, he pressesa kiss tomy ear and whispers,“Mine,” sending ashiver down my spine
andmakingmewonderifit’swrongthattheonewordturnsmeon.Idon’thavetimetothinkaboutit
fortoolong.Ourmealsarrive,andIuseeatingasanexcusetoignorethefeelinginmychest.

Standing outside the restaurant saying goodbye to everyone an hour and a half later, I give out

hugsthenletDillonleadmetohiscarandhelpmeinside.OnceI’min,Ibuckleupandturntowatch
himfoldhistall,leanframebehindthewheel.

“Ineedtostopatmyhouseandgrabsomestuff,”hestates,startingupthecarandputtingonhis

seatbeltwithoutlookingatme.

“Okay,”Iagreesoftlyaswepulloutintotraffic.IhavenoideawhattosaytohimorhowIfeel.

Wedidn’treallytalkatdinnerafterthewholeJoshthing.Idon’tknowifI’mmadathimforhowhe
acted,orhappyhefeelssopossessiveoverme.IfyouwouldhaveaskedmethreemonthsagohowI’d
feelifaguy,anyguy,wentcavemanandbasicallypissedonmyleg,IwouldhavetoldyouI’dhateit,
butwithDillonmyemotionsaretotallyjumbled.

“Whatthehell?”IsquintthroughthedarkandblinkwhenIseeaForSalesignplantedinDillon’s

yard,closetotheroad.“Youputyourhouseupforsale?”Iturnmybodyandeyestowardhim.

“Yep,”isallhesaysasweparkoutfrontofhishouse,neartheobnoxiousfountaininthemiddle

ofthedriveway.Shuttingdownthecar,hegetsout,slammingthedoor,thenjogsaroundtomyside,
takingmyhandandhelpingmeout.

“Youdidn’ttellmeyouwereputtingyourhouseonthemarket,”Iaccuseashetakesmyhandand

leadsmeupthestepstowardthefrontdoor.

“Youhatethishouse.WhywouldIkeepit?”Hefrowns,shovingtherealtorkeyboxonthedoor

handleoutofthewaysohecanpunchinthecodeforthelock.

Heisgoingtomakemenuts,totallynuts!Ithinkashepullsmeintothehousealongwithhimand

shutsthedoorbehindus.

“Yousaidthishouseremindedyouofyourgrandparents’house.”
“Itdoes,”heagrees,andIfollowbehindhimuponeofthestaircasesandacrossthesecondfloor

landingtowardhisbedroom.

“Idon’tgetit.”Irubthebridgeofmynoseinfrustration.“Thenwhyareyousellingit?”
“WhywouldIkeepit?”hegrumbles,walkingthroughthedoortohisroom.

Following,Istopinthemiddleoftheroom,plantingmyhandsonmyhips.
“Becauseyouloveit!”Ipracticallyshout.
“You don’t want to move in here, Ashlyn. There is no point in me keeping it!” he shouts back

fromthebathroom,wherehedisappeared,andIimmediatelyfeellikeshit.IdidtellhimIhatedit,but
thatwasbeforeIknewwhyheboughtittobeginwith.

Comingoutofthebathroom,hetossessomestuffonthechaiseloungenearthebedthenheads

forthecloset,turningonthelightinthere.

“Takeitoffthemarket,”Isay,sternly,whenhewalksoutwithahandfulofclothesonhangers,

layingthemacrossthebackofthechaise.

“Why?”
“BecauseyouarenotgoingtosellitjustbecauseIdon’twanttolivehere.”
“We’remarried.I’mnotgoingtoliveinaseparatehousefromyou.”
God, why do I hate it so much that those reasons are not words of love? Like, “I’m selling it,

becauseIloveyouandIcan’timaginenotlivingtherestofmylifewithyou,”or“Iloveyou,andI
wantustofindahousethatwearebothhappyin.”

“Youaresofrustrating,”Igrowl,feelingaheadachecomingon,andIsqueezemyeyesclosed,

puttingthepalmsofmyhandsagainstmyface.

“It’sforthebest.”Hisarmswraparoundmeandhepullsmeflushagainsthim.
Droppingmyhandstomysides,Istareintohishandsomeface.“Idon’twantyoutogetridofthis

housebecauseofme.”

“I’m getting rid of this house, because I want to,” he states, looking sincere, but I’m not sure I

believe him. I saw his face when he was talking about the house his grandparents owned. He loved
theirhouse;hewantedtoraiseafamilyinoneliketheirs.“Stopstressingaboutthis.It’sjustahouse.”
Hebendsdown,nuzzlingmyneck,andmyarmsslidearoundhisshouldersashishandsmovedown
tomyassandhehoistsmeup.

“Whatareyoudoing?”Iquestionasheputshiskneesontothebedbehindmeandsettlesmeunder

him.

“Ireallydolovethisdress.”Hesmiles,runninghisfingersalongtheedgeoflacenearmybreast.
“Ithoughtyouhatedit.”
“No, I hate that other men get to see so much of you.” He places a kiss against my mouth then

leansback.

“You’veneverlikedmychoiceofclothing,”Igrumble,andheslideshisfingersovermytemple

andintomyhair.

“BecauseI’vealwaysconsideredyoumine.”Henipstheundersideofmyjaw,andmyheartstarts

tobeatwildlyagainstmyribcage.Sincealmostthefirstmomentwemet,he’stoldmeIneedtocover
more skin. I thought he was just being a dick, but now… now I’m not so sure, and I’m not brave
enoughtoaskhimthequestionsIreallyneedtoaskhim.

“Dillon,”Ipantashisfingersslideuptheinsideofmythighandoverthecenterofmypanties.
“Hmm?”
Idon’tgettosaymore.Hismouthcoversmine,andbeforeIknowit,we’rebothnakedusingour

mouthsforbetterthingsthantalking.

AKING

WITH

heart pounding, I blink my eyes open, finding it completely dark. Grumbling

somethingIcan’tmakeout,Dillonpullsmecloserandshoveshisfaceinmyhair.Asmyeyesadjust
tothedarkness,lookingaround,realizingwearestillinhisroomathishouse.

“Breathe,Ashlyn,itwasjustabaddream,”Iwhisper,holdingthepalmofmyhandtomychest

andfeelingmyheartbeatinghard.Ican’trecallwhathappenedexactlyinmydream,butIremember
Isla,Dillon’sex,wasthere,andIrememberfeelingraw,powerfulfear.

LiftingDillon’sarmfrommywaist,Igetupfromthebedquietly,grabhisbutton-downshirtthat

he wore to dinner off the floor, and head for the bathroom while putting it on. Closing the door
silently,Iturnonthelightandtakecareofbusinessthenheadfortheclosestsinktowashmyhands.
Turningthewatertocold,Isplashsomeonmyfacelettingitwashawaythelastofthedream.

Feelingbetter,Iturnthelightbackoffandheadforthebed,stoppinginthemiddleoftheroom

when I notice the light under the door in the closet. My heart rate speeds right back up as I walk
towardthedoorandplacemypalmonthehandle,openingslowly.Peekingin,Ifinditempty,except
for Dillon’s clothes and shoes. Without thinking, I walk in, closing the door behind me, and start
snooping around. I have no idea what I’m looking for, but I’m on a mission as I open and close
drawers.

“Shedidn’tsleepinhere.Hershitwasdownthehall.”
“AHHHHHH!”Iscream,comingoutofmyskin,spinningtofindDillonwearingapairofloose

sleeppantswhilestandinginthedoorwaywithhisarmscrossedoverhischestandhiseyesonme.
“Youscaredthecrapoutofme!”Isnap,holdingmyhandtomychest.

“YouscaredtheshitoutofmewhenIcouldn’tfindyou,”hesnapsrightback.“Whatthehellare

youdoinghidinginhere?”

“Huh?”IplaydumbthenlookaroundlikeIjustrealizedwhereIwas.
“Jesus,youareatotalfuckingnut.C’mere.”Heholdsouthishand,andmyeyesdroptoitlikeit’s

asnakethatwillstrikemeatanymoment.

“I’mnotanut,”Idefend,eventhoughImaybe,butonlybecauseheismakingmeone.
“C’mere.”
“I’mrighthere.”
“Yes,butIwantyourighthere.”Hepointstothegroundathisfeetandraisesabrow.
“Why?”
“BecauseIdo.”
“That’s not a good reason.” I shake my head, and his eyes close briefly like he’s annoyed then

openandpinmeinplace,narrowing.Lungingforward,hecatchesmywaistandpullsmeintohim.

“You’re so annoying,” I grumble, watching him smile. “What did you want to tell me that you

couldn’tsaywithmestandingoverthere?”

“Sheneverstayedinhere.Wedidn’tsharearoomorabed.”
Snorting,Ileanmyheadback,lookingattheceiling,wonderinghowstupidhethinksIam,andhe

givesmeasqueeze,pullingmygazebacktohim.

“I’mserious.”
“Yeah,Ibet,”Ihuff,tryingtopullaway.
“Youweremyfirst.”Mybodyfreezes,andIwonderifIheardhimright.
“What?”
“Youweremyfirst,”herepeats,andIswearhe’ssayinghewasavirgin.Iwanttolaugh,butthe

lookinhiseyessaysheisn’tjoking.ThenIrememberourfirsttime,andeverytimesincethen,andI
wonder how much porn he’s watched, because moves like the ones he has had to come from
somewhere.

“Iseethatyoudon’tbelieveme,”hemutters,andIshakemyhead,tryingtoprocesshiswordsand

exactlywhattheymean.

“No,actually,I’mjustwonderingexactlyhowmuchpornyou’vewatched,”Isay,andhegivesme

asexygrinthentakesastepforward,pressingmeintotheislandinthecenterofthecloset,thenlifts
meuptositontopofit.

“Haven’t watched any porn, baby.” His words vibrate against my ear that he nips, causing my

kneestogoweakasheuseshishipstospreadthemopen.

“Areyousure?”
“Didn’twanttogotohell.”Ihearthesmileinhisvoice,andImovemyhandsuptowraparound

his shoulders then lean back so I can see his face. “It was you.” His fingers trail down my cheek
gently.“Iknewitwasyou.Attimes,itpissedmeoffthatitwasyou,butthatdoesn’tchangethefact
it’sbeenonlyyousincethemomentwemet.”

“Dillon.”Ifeelmyfacesoften,andmybodypressesclosertohis.
“I’mnosaint.I’vehadmyfairshareofclosecalls,butnooneeverfeltright.”Heholdsmyface

in his palms and kisses me softly… so softly I feel that kiss score through every cell in my body.
“Untilyou.”

Tearsstingmynose,andIdropmyforeheadtohisshoulderandtrytogetmyselfundercontrol

ashisfingersslidebackthroughmyhairtowraparoundmyscalp.Hiswordsarenotthewordsof
loveIsodesperatelywanttohearfromhim,buttheyarewordsthatmakemehopeful.

“Youdidn’tevenlikeme,”Iwhisperintohisskin,andhisfingerstenseagainstmyscalp.
“You’rewrong,”hislipswhisperbackagainstthetopofmyhead,andIsqueezemyeyesclosed,

wonderingwhatthehellishappeningandwhenIwillwakeupfromthiscrazy,impossibledream…
orifIeverwantto.

Chapter5

Ashlyn

“Y

OUR

MOM

AND

dad get home today,” Dillon reminds me as he leans against the counter opposite

mewithacupofcoffeeinhishands.Hisbroadchestandabsvisibleformetodroolover.

“Iknow.”Idon’tneedhisreminder.I’vetalkedtobothmyparentsafewtimessincethey’vebeen

gone, and neither of them has brought up my relationship with Dillon. I’m worried. My dad isn’t
someonewhobeatsaroundthebush,sotospeak.SoIhavenoideawhattoexpectfromhimwhenhe
getsbackintotown.

“Iknowyou’reworried.”
“Iam,”Iagree,thinkingthat’stheunderstatementofthecentury.
Turning, he drops his coffee behind him to the granite then moves to where I’m standing,

wrappinghishandsaroundmywaistandliftingmeuptositonthecounterIwasjustleaningagainst.
“Iwon’thideourmarriagefromanyoneelse.”

“Dillon,”Isigh,wishingheunderstoodwhereI’mcomingfrom.“It’snotaseasyasjusttelling

themwegotmarried.”

His hands rest against my thighs and his fingers begin to rub circles there. “I know, but we are

married.”

“My parents are going to have concerns, valid concerns.” I rest my hands on his shoulders and

leanintohim.“Wedidn’tdate.Wejumpedrightintobeingmarriedandbasicallylivingtogether.”

“There is no ‘basically’ about it. We are living together, and will be until the day we die,” he

growls,andIfighttheurgetorollmyeyesathim.He’ssodamnhardheaded.

“CanyouatleasttrytoseewhereI’mcomingfrom?”Iplea.
“You’reanadult.Youliveonyourownandmakeyourownmoney.Whatyoudowithyourlifeis

yourchoice.”

“It’snotasblackandwhiteasyouseeit,”Ihuff,knowingfromourprevioustalksonthematter

it’spointlesstoarguewithhim.Hejustdoesn’tunderstand,orhereallybelieveswhathe’ssayingand
thinksitisaseasyasjusttellingthemaboutus.

“You’remakingthisharderthanitneedstobe.”
“NoI’mnot.”
“Youare.”
“Dillon,pleasethinkaboutit.Imean,we’renoteveninlove,”Iwhisperahalflie.I,atsomepoint

overthelasttwoweeks,haveacceptedI’minlovewithhim,butthatdoesn’tmeanhefeelsthesameas
Ido.

HishandsdropfrommythighslikeI’veburnedhimandhetakesasuddenstepback,leavingme

feelingcold.Watching,I’matalossfromhisreaction.Herunsahandthroughhishair,andmyheart
lodgesinmythroat.“Jesus,whatthefuck?”hebarks,lookingupattheceiling,thenturnsandleaves.I
don’t know how long I sit there, stunned. But when he comes back, he’s dressed in black workout
pants,aplaingraytee,andsneakers.

“I’ll be back.” He grabs his car keys off the counter, barely sparing me a glance as he turns to

leave.

“What?”Iask,suddenlypanicked.Hoppingdownfromthecounter,Ifollowbehindhimtoward

thedoor.“Whatthehelljusthappened?”Ishoutathisback,andhispain-filledeyesshoottomeover
hisshoulderwithhishandontheknob.

“IjustfoundoutthewomanI’minlovewithisn’tinlovewithme,”hestatesmatter-of-factly,then

stormsoutthroughthefrontdoor,slammingitbehindhimself.

“What?”Iask,butit’stoolate.He’sgone.Ploppingdownonthesofa,myheaddropstomyhands

andtearsofannoyancefillmyeyes.

“Hssss.”Pullingmyhandsfrommyface,IlookatLeoashehissesagainandtakesaswipeatme.
“HowwasIsupposedtoknow?”Icry,glaringatmycatwhenheswipesatmeagain.“Hedidn’t

tellme,”Idefendmyselfashisgoldeneyesmeetmine,andthenIswearheglaresbeforehissingonce
moreandhoppingdownoffthecouch,prancingoff.

Seeing my cell phone on the coffee table, I pick it up and dial Dillon’s number, but he doesn’t

answer. I dial again, and still get no answer. I want to toss the stupid thing across the room. I don’t
understandwhyhe’smad.It’snotlikeIknewhewasinlovewithme;Ihadnoclue.Gettingoffthe
couch,Igotomyroomandstraighttomycloset,whereIputonapairofmymostcomfortablejeans
that are ripped to shreds, my bra, and a tank top, then slip my feet into my flip-flops. Once I’m
dressed,IrunabrushthroughmyhairquicklythendialMichelle.

“Hey-yo,”shegreetsonthesecondring,andIsighinrelief.
“I need your help with something. Can you meet me?” I ask softly, wondering if I’m making a

hugemistake,butI’vebeenthinkingaboutthisforafewdaysandit’snowornever.

“DoesthismeetinginvolveburyingDillon’sbodyinthewoods?”
“No.”Ilaugh,walkingbackthroughmyhousetowardthekitchenwheremykeysare.
“Cool,justwantedtoknowsoIcanfigureoutwhattowear,”shemurmurs,andIhearLukainthe

backgroundsaysomethingtoherthatIcan’tmakeout.

“Crap,you’rehomewithLuka.Itotallyforgotit’sSunday.”
“Iam,buthe’stoppedup.He’llbefineforafewhours.Wherearewemeeting?”sheasks,andI

canhearLukalaughingaboutneverbeingtoppedup.

“TheCoffeeHut,andbringyourrealtorstuffwithyou.”
“Myrealtorstuff?”shequestions,soundingconfused.
“Justbringit!”Icry.
“Okay,butcanIaskwhatthehellisgoingonandwhyyousoundsofreaked?”
“I’llexplainwhenIseeyou.Meetmeinfifteen.”
“Fifteen?”shehisses,“Crap,woman,canIhaveatleastthirtyminutes?Ihaven’tevenshowered.”
“Fine,thirty.”Ihangupandheadforthedoor.

“O

KAY

SERIOUSLY

WHAT

thehellisgoingon?”Michelleasksassoonasshetakestheseatacrossfrom

me,andIscootthecoffeeIgothertohersideofthetable.

“Iwanttobuyahouse.”
“Um…” Her brow furrows. “You just bought your house. Are you looking for an investment

property?”sheasks,takingasipofhercoffeebeforesettingherlaptoponthetableandturningiton.

“No,IwanttobuyDillon’shouse,”Iadmit,andherheadsnapsuptome.
“What?Why?”
“YouknowDillonputhishouseonthemarket.Heloveshishouse,andIdon’twanthimtogive

thatupbecauseofme,soI’mgoingtobuyit.”

Leaningback,shecrossesherarmsoverherchestandstudiesme.“Whatthehellisreallygoing

on?Youhatehishouse.”

“Idon’thateit,notexactlyanyways.”Ishrug,andhereyesnarrow.“It’llgrowonme,”Igripe,

andhereyebrowslower.

“Ashlyn.”
“Fine, I think Dillon and I are fighting.” I bite the inside of my cheek. I’m pretty sure we’re

fighting;Ijuststillhavenoideawhy.

“Youthinkyou’refighting?”
“Maybenotfighting-fighting,butItoldhimwe’renotinloveandhegotpissedandstormedout,

butnotbeforetossingagrenadeatme.Ithinkhiswordswere,‘IjustfoundoutthewomanI’minlove
withisn’tinlovewithme.’”

“Oh,”shesighs,andslouchesforwardonthechair.
“Yeah.”
“Buyinghishouseisn’tgoingtofixthis.”
“I’mnotstupid,Michelle.Iknowbuyinghishouseisn’tgoingtofixanything,butIwanthimto

knowIbelieveinusasmuchashedoes.”

“You’reinlovewithhim.”It’sastatement,butIstillnod,pickingupmycoffee.
“Yes,I’vealsoacceptedthat,”Igrumbleintomycup.
“Don’tsoundsomadaboutit.”Shelaughs.Shewouldthinkthisisfunny.
“I’m not mad, but we just got on a crazy roller-coaster together, and I can’t see the top. I’m

freakingout,becausetherecouldbenomoretracksleftoncewereachthetippingpoint.”

“He’sinlovewithyou.That’snotgoingtochangejustbecausehe’smad.He’skindofintense,and

youprobablyhurthisfeelingssincehe’sbeenlustingafteryouforever.Maybeeveninlovewithyou
forthatlong.Andnowhethinksyoudon’tfeelthesame.It’sstandardAlphaMaleSyndrome.”

“AlphaMaleSyndrome?”Ilaugh,andshenods.
“Yes,AlphaMaleSyndrome,andyourmanissufferingfromtheworstcaseI’veeverseen.”
“I’mstillbuyingthehouse,”Itellher,andhereyessoften.
“Letmelookitup.Doyouknowtheaddress?”
“Yeah.”Itellher,andshetypesitintohercomputerthenblinksatthescreen.“What?Pleasedon’t

tellmesomeonehasalreadyputanofferonit.”

“No, no offer.” She spins her laptop around to face me. I scan the screen and the details of the

house,andthenfeelbileriseupthebackofmythroatwhenIseetheaskingprice.

“Six hundred thousand?” I whisper in disbelief. My house only cost me a hundred and sixty

thousand.Granted,it’smuchsmallerthanhis,butstill.Thatpriceisoutrageous.“Stupidfountain.”

“What?”shequestions.
“Nothing,”Imutter.“Howmuchwouldmydownpaymentneedtobe?”
“Onehundredandtwentythousand,giveortake,dependingonifhe’swillingtonegotiate.”
Sitting back, defeated, I sigh. “I don’t have that much saved.” I have some money, but not a

hundredandtwentythousanddollars.IfIdid,Iwouldhavezeroschoolloansandanewercarthanthe
oneIhavenow.

“You should just talk to him. He doesn’t need a grand gesture like this.” She waves at the

computer,andIbitetheinsideofmycheek.

“Idon’treallyhaveachoice,doI?”
“Notunlessyouwanttogobankrupt.”
“WhatthehellhaveIgottenmyselfinto?”Imoan.

“It’scalledarelationship.”Shesmiles,takingasipofcoffee,andIkickherunderthetable.
“Iwishyoucouldhaveseenthelookonhisfacewhenhetalkedaboutwhyheboughtit.Heloves

it,andbecauseofme,he’sgivingitup.”

“Somoveintoitwithhim.”
“What?”Ifrown,andsherollshereyes.
“Ifyoudon’twanthimtosellit,thenjustmoveinwithhim.”
“Whydidn’tIthinkofthat?”
“Becauseyou’reblondenow.”
“Shutup.”Ismileasthewheelsinmyheadstarttoturn.
“Whatdidyoudrive?”
“MySuburban,why?”sheasks,studyingme.
“Ineedyourhelp.”
“Doesthishelpinvolvecarryingheavyshit?”
“Maybe.”Ishrug,pickingupmycoffee,takinganothersipandhopingthisplanofmineworks.
“YouaresoluckyIworesneakers,”shemutters,andIgrin.

“W

HAT

THE

FUCK

isgoingon?”isroared,andIlookatMichellewithwideeyesandfeelmyheartlodge

itselfinmythroat.

“Oh shit,” I breathe, and my stupid best friend has the audacity to point at me and laugh as the

bottlesofmyshampooandconditionerinmyhanddropandclattertothebathroomfloor.

“Ashlyn?”hecalls,andIduckdown.Why?Idon’tknow;it’snotlikehecan’tseeme.ButIfeel

saferhiddenbehindMichelle,whoisnowlaughinglikeahyena.

“Michelle,canItalktomywife?Alone?”heasks,exaggeratingthewordwife,andIcringe.
“Yep.” She turns to look at me, mouthing, Alpha Male Syndrome, then smiles. “I’ll call you

tomorrow,loveyou,”shechirps,disappearingoutofthebathroomandleavingmetofacemyvery
pissedoffhusband.

“Do you want to tell me why the fuck all my shit is packed?” he asks, swinging his hand in the

directionofthebedroom.

“I…”Ifreeze.HemustnothavenoticedIpackedalotofmystuffaswell.
“Jesus,whatthefuck?”hegrowlsbeforeIhaveachancetoanswer.“I’mnotmovingout,andif

youthinkIam,youhavelostyourdamnmind.”

“Dillon,”Iinterjectsoftly,andhiseyesnarrow.
“I wasn’t even gone for three hours, and in that time, you convinced yourself that we’re

separating?” He leans in. “Think again, baby, ’cause it’s not happening. Not now, not ever. We’re
married,andarestayingfuckingmarried.”Heclipsoffthelastpointclosetomyface.

“Married?”
Oh,fuckme,notagain.
MyeyesslicepastDillontomydadstandinginthedoorwayofmyroom.“Dad.”
“What’s going on?” my mom questions, coming up behind my dad and putting her hand to his

waistsoshecanseearoundhim.

“Apparently,yourdaughterisamarriedwomannow,”hegrowls,lookingdownather.
“Dad,”Irepeat,feelingsuddenlyheartbroken.Heonlydoesthewhole‘I’mmymom’skid’thing

whenhe’sreallypissedoffatme.

“Married?”Momwhispers,lookingatmewithwide,hurt-filledeyes.
“Let’s go sit down and talk about this,” Dillon suggests, sounding much calmer than he did

momentsago,andmydad’seyesswingtohimandfillwithanger.

“Talk?Youwanttotalktomenow?Whythefuckdidn’tyoutalktomebeforeyoumarriedmy

onlygoddamndaughter?”hebarks,andmyarmswraparoundmywaist.Iknewthiswouldbebad.I
knewit.Butstill,IsecretlyhopeditwouldturnoutokayonceItoldthem.

“Honey,calmdown,”Momwhispersfromhisside,andIwatchhimpullinaraggedbreath.
“I don’t even know what the fuck to say right now.” He pulls off his hat and runs his fingers

throughhishairthenlooksatme.“Ican’tbelieveyoukeptthisfromyourmomandme.”

“I’msorry,”Iwhisper,thinkingthosewordsdon’tevencomeclosetoconveyinghowhorribleI

trulyfeelrightnow.

“You.”HepointsatDillon.“I’vetrustedyou.”
“Hewantedtotellyou,”Idefendwithoutthinking,steppingbetweenthem,onlytohaveDillonput

hishandtomywaistandpullmetohisside.

“Yeah, but he didn’t,” he mutters, then looks down at my mom. “Come on, let’s get home.” He

wraps his arm around her shoulders, leading her away. I want to say something to stop them from
going,butIknowrightnowit’sbestifIletthemgoandgivethemachancetocooldown.Ialsoknow
Ineedtocomeupwithavalidreasonforkeepingtheminthedark.

“Shhhh.” Dillon’s arms engulf me as a sob climbs up the back of my throat and my body jerks

forward.“Itwillbeokay.Theyjustneedsometimeforthenewstosinkin,”hewhispers,andIcry
harderintohischest.Scoopingmeupintohisarms,hecarriesmeoutoftheroomtothelivingroom
andsettlesusonthecouch,withmeinhislap.“Pleasecalmdown.Thetearsarekillingme.”

“I…Iha-havenev…never…see-seen…m-myda…dadsomad,”Icry,andhishandonmyback

rubsinsoothingcircles.

“He’llcomearound.”Hewill,butwhen?I’veneverseenmydadlookatmethewayhedidjust

now,andIhatetheideaofhimbeingmadatme,somadthathewalkedaway.Andlet’snotevenget
into my mom’s reaction. She didn’t say anything, but I know she’s hurt and I hate that. “Everything
willbeokay,butpleasestopcrying.Idon’tlikeit.”

“Youcan’tmakemestopcrying!”Isob,andhismouthdropstomyear,placingakissthere.
“Iknow,”hemutters,soundingannoyedbythatfact.Idon’tknowhowlongwesitthere,meinhis

lap,curledaroundhim,hishandsrubbinggentlyovermyback,butmytearseventuallydryupandI
meltintohim,feelingthedaystarttosetinandmyeyesandbodybegintogetheavy.“CanIaskwhy
youweremovingmeout?”hequestions,andmybodystiffens.Itrytomoveoffhim,buthisarms
holdmetighter,keepingmeinplace.“Talktome.”

“Iwasn’tmovingyouout.”
“Youpackedmyshit.”
“Andmine.Iwasmovingusout,”Iadmitquietly,andhisbodygoesrock-solid.
“Pardon?”
“Iknowyouloveyourhouse,andIknowyoudon’treallywanttosellit,soIaskedMichelleto

tellmehowmuchitwassoIcouldbuyitfromyou,butIdon’thaveenoughforthedownpayment,”I
complain,andhisbodytensesfurther.

“Youweregoingtobuymyhouse?”heasksafteramoment,andit’smyturntotense.Pullingmy

faceawayfromhischestwithhishandonmyjaw,hiseyessearchmine.“Youweregoingtobuymy
house?”herepeatssoftly,andmyteethgototheinsideofmycheekasIshrug.“Youhatemyhouse.”

“Ilikethelibraryandthekitchen,Ialsolikeyourbedroom,”Idefendquietly,feelingguilty.

“Baby.”Hiseyesmovepastmeashisheadshakesfromsidetoside.“I’msellingbecauseIwant

youtobehappy.”

“Iwantthesameforyou.”I’veneverhadtoconsideranyoneelse’sfeelingsbefore,butIdowant

him to be happy. And I really don’t want him to resent me for making him give up something that
means so much to him, something that represents a part of his childhood; a childhood that was
scarredbythelossofhisparents.

“We’re not moving into my house,” he states after a moment, and I feel my face scrunch up in

annoyance.

“Yesweare.”
“We’renot.”
“Youaresodamnannoying.”Ipushawayfromhim,andsincehe’snotpreparedformysudden

shift I almost fall onto my ass, but thankfully he’s strong and quick, so he catches me before I do
damagetomyself.

“Becareful.”
HesteadiesmeonceI’monmyfeet,andIleanclosertohim,andshout,“Stoptellingmewhatto

do!”

“Fuckme,nowyou’remadthatIwon’tletyoumoveintoahouseyouhate?”
“No, that’s stupid,” I hiss, even though it is partly true. “I’m mad, because I’m trying to do

somethingtoshowyouthatIloveyou,andyou’rebeingagiantdickaboutit.”

“Whatdidyoujustsay?”
“You’reagiantdick,”Ihuffandturntoleave,butbeforeIevenmakeittwosteps,he’sonme.His

armswraparoundmefrombehindthenhespinsmearoundtofacehim.

“Tellmewhatyousaid.”
“Idid.”
“Tellmeagain.”
“You’readick,”Irepeat,wonderingwhythehellhewantsmetokeepcallinghimthat.
“No,thepartaboutyoubeinginlovewithme.”
“What?” I rear back in a panic, realizing what I admitted to him, not even realizing that I was

admittingit.

“Youloveme,”herepeatsquietly,andIstare,havingnoideawhattodonow.“We’lltrymyplace

outforafewweeks.Ifyoudon’tlikeit,we’llputitbackonthemarketandfindaplaceyouandIcan
agreeon.”Hesmilesthendropshisfaceandnuzzlesmyneck.“Youloveme?”

“I’mrethinkingit,”Imutter,wrappingmyarmsaroundthebackofhisneckwhiletiltingmyhead

tothesidetogivehimbetteraccesstothecolumnofmythroat.

“It’stoolateforthat.”Heleansback,smilingdownatme,thenplacesasoftkissagainstmylips.

“Haveyoueaten?”

“No.”
“Good,meeither,let’sgo.”Hegrabsmyhandandstartstoleadmeaway,butIstophim.
“Wherearewegoing?”
“Pizza,I’mstarving.”
“Wheredidyougotodaywhenyouleft?”Ifrown;hewasgonethreehours,maybealittlemore

thanthat.

“IdrovearoundforabitthenwenttoJaxandEllie’s.”
“Youdid?”Iwhisperindisbelief,andhisfacesoftens.
“HeandIaregood.HeknowshowIfeelaboutyou,andIneededhisadviceonhowtoproceed.

You’renotexactlyanopenbook.”

“Oh,Lord,”Igroan.“Icanonlyimaginewhathesaidtoyou.”
“Nothing bad. He told me to get over myself, that I’m the first man you have ever been serious

aboutandIneedtogiveyoutimetoadjusttousbeinganus.”

“That’sgoodadvice.”Inod,andheshakeshisheadindenial.
“Idon’tthinkso,”hemutters,droppinghisforeheadtorestagainstmine.“Iwantallofyou.Your

mind,yoursoul,andmostimportantlyyourheart.Iwanteverybreathyoutaketobeforme.Iwantto
imprintmyselfintoyourskinsoyou’llcravemelikeadrugandneverwanttobewithoutme.”

“I think you may be crazy,” I cut in, studying the sincerity in his eyes. He really does want that

fromme,andthescarythingis,IthinkIalreadyfeelthatwayabouthim.

“I’minlovewithawomanwhohasmademecrazy.”
“You’vemademecrazytoo,”Isayquietly,andhisfacemovesclosertomine.
“No more fighting about the things that don’t matter. We have enough to deal with without

fightingeachother.”

“Youneedtotakeyourownadvice.”
“I’lltry,”heagrees,kissingmeoncemore.“Nowlet’sgoeat,I’mstarving.”
“Okay,”Iagree,lettinghimleadmeoutofthehousetohiscarthatisparkedinthedriveway.
Once we are both in and buckled, he backs out of the drive and heads down one street after

another, out of my subdivision, with his hand wrapped around my jean-covered thigh while his
fingersstrokemyskinthroughoneofthemanyholesinthematerial.

“You’re going to make that tear enormous if you keep doing that.” I place my hand over his,

catchinghimsmileoutofthecornerofmyeye.Runningmyfingersoverthetopofhishand,Iwatch
thescreenonhisdashlightup,announcingthathehasacall,andmybodyfreezeswhenIseetheshe-
bitch-from-hell’snamepopup,catchingmeoff-guard.

“Fuckme,”hemutters,pressingdenyonthecallafterthesecondring.
“Whyisshecallingyou?”
“ProbablybecauseherparentshavebeencallingandI’venotansweredtheircalls.”Itrytotakea

few breaths before I speak, because I don’t want to sound like a crazy woman when I do talk, but
seriously,whatthehell?

“Whyareherparentscallingyou?”Okay,good,thatcameoutsoundinghalfwaynormalandnot

screechedatthetopofmylungslikeitdidinmyhead.

“Areyoureadytotalkaboutherandme?”
God,amI?Idon’tthinkso,butIreallyneedtounderstandwhatthehellisgoingon.
“I’mtakingthatasano,”hemutters,soundingdisappointed.
“Areyouclosewithherfamily?”Iquestion,figuringthat’sasafeplacetostart.
“MybrotherandIlivedwithherparentsafterourspassedaway,”hesays,andmyhandoverhis

spasms.Flippinghispalmupright,hisfingerslacewithmineandhisthumbrubsgentlyovertherapid
pulseinmywrist.

“Whataboutyourgrandparents?”
“Mygrandfatherpassedtheyearbeforemyparents,andmygrandmotherhadbeeninthehospital

forawhilewithdementiaandpassedawaymysecondyearofcollege.”

“I’msorry.”
“Itwasalongtimeago,”hesayssoftly,butIstillcatchthetwingeofpaininhistone.
“Maybe,butI’mstillsorry.”Isqueezehisfingers.“Howdidyouendupwithherparents?”
“My mom and her mom were sorority sisters in college and opened a law practice after they

graduated.TheywereinourlivessinceIcanremember.”

“You didn’t have any other family?” I ask softly as he pulls up in front of the pizza place and

parksdiagonallyinoneoftheemptyspots.

“Mydadhasabrother,buthedidn’thavetheabilitytotaketwoteenagedboyson.Hisplatewas

fullwithhiswifeandthreegirls,andmymomdidn’thaveanysiblings.Herparentswereolder,much
olderwhentheyhadher,andtheyweren’tinaplacewheretheycouldtakeusineither.”

“Soherfamilytookyouandyourbrotherin?”
“Yeah,theTrent’swereoursavinggrace.Theylivedclose,sowedidn’thavetochangeschools

ormakeanyhugeadjustment.Theywerelikefamilytous.”

“And they were okay with you dating their daughter?” That is something I find hard to believe.

Thereisnowaymydadwouldbeokaywithmedatingaboywholivedunderthesameroomasme.
Nowayinhell.

“Arewetalkingabouthernow?”heasks,lookingatme,andIsquirm.
“I don’t know,” I admit, and he sighs, shutting down the car, opening the door, and getting out.

Releasingadeepbreath,Iopenmydoorandmeethiminfrontofthecarbeforehecanmakeittome.

“Icanseethewheelsinyourheadturning,”hesaysquietly,gettingcloseandtakingholdofmy

faceinhislargepalms.He’sright.Ihaveabillionquestions,butIfeellikeit’ssafertolivewithmy
headburiedinamoundofdenial.“Iknowtalkingaboutherupsetsyou,butI’dreallyliketoexplain
thingstoyou.”

“Dillon.”Isigh,wishingIwasbraver.
“I’llgiveyoutime,butifyouhavequestionsjustask.”
“Doyoustilltalktoher?”
Histhumbsweepsgentlyovermycheekandhiseyessearchmine.“Ihaven’tforalongtime.”
“DoessheknowyouandIgotmarried?”Myheartacceleratesattheideaofherknowingaboutus.

I don’t care that she knows; I actually want her to know he’s mine. But with the things that have
happenedinthepasttomyfamily,Iknowsometimesinformationlikethatcansetapersonoff,and
regardlessofwhateverhethinkstheirrelationshipwas,Ihavenodoubtshewasinlovewithhim.

“I’msuresheknows,sinceItoldherparentsaboutyouandme.”
“Youdid?”
“They’re like family to me. I wanted them to share in my happiness,” he says, but the way his

browhas furrowed saysmore than hiswords do. Brushing hislips over minequickly, he takes my
handandleadsmeintothepizzaplacebeforeIhaveachancetoaskhimwhattheysaid,eventhough
I’mprettysureIalreadyknowtheanswertothatquestion.

Chapter6

Dillon

ITTING

THE

SNOOZE

buttononthealarmforthirtyminutes,IsmileasAshlyngrumblessomethingin

her sleep and burrows into my side. I wish we didn’t have to work today. I should have closed the
officeandtakenhersomewhere.Weneedahoneymoon,andIneedanexcusetolockherinaroom
andkeephernakedforatleastaweek,ifnotmore.

“Timetogetup,gorgeous.”Isweepthehairoffherforehead,andsmileagainwhenshebatsmy

handawayandgrowls.Sheisnotamorningperson.Ihavenevermetsomeonewhohateswakingup
as much as she does. Rolling her to her back, I kiss her jaw then down the column of her throat,
grinningwhensheturnsherheadtothesideinanoffering,mumblingsomethingIcan’tmakeout.I
can’tgetenoughofher.

I knew I had it bad before, but now that I can touch her and taste her whenever and however I

please,it’sdifferent.She’sbecomemyaddiction.Lickingacrosshershoulder,Icupherbreastwith
my palm and pull her nipple into my mouth, feeling it tighten against my tongue as I pull on her
nipple ring. Her back arches and her fingers slide into my hair as I glide my free hand down her
stomach.

“Dillon,” her sleepy voice calls, and my fingers move farther, finding her already primed and

ready for me. I don’t wait. I position myself between her legs and wrap them around me before
slippinginsideofher.

“Jesus.” I still and wait. There is always a moment during that first thrust that my balls draw up

tightandmyconscienceleavesmybodyasherwetheattakesholdofme.Herhandsslidingdownmy
backbringmebacktolifeandIpullout,onlytothrustbackinslowly.Hearinghermewl,Itakeher
mouthandswipemytongueoverherlips,hearinghersharpintakeofbreathonadownwardglide.

“Faster.”
I ignore her, keeping my pace slow and steady. Pulling her hands from my back, I drag them

above her head. “Tell me you love me.” I need to hear her say it. It doesn’t seem possible that she
does.HereyesslideclosedandIthrustinhard.“Lookatme.”Whenhereyesopen,Iholdhergaze.
“Tellme.”Ithrustinagain,feelingherwallstightenaroundme.Iknowshe’sclose,andIknowinjust
afewmorethrustsshewillbecomingalloverme.“Tellme,”Igrowlonanoutwardslide,keeping
myselffromthrustinginhardandgivinguswhatwebothneed.

“Iloveyou,”shecriesindesperation,andIthrustdeep,wrapmyhandaroundbothherwrists,and

lean back so I can slide my free hand over her stomach. Finding her clit with my thumb, I circle.
Whimperingagainstmymouth,herbackarchesoffthebed.Ilovethatthisisonlymine;everymoan,
everywhimper,everytimeherbreathcatches,it’sonlyforme.

“You’resoclose,”Igritashertightwallsbegintopulseandspasmaroundmylength,tryingto

hold me in place as I quicken my tempo. Rolling her clit in quicker circles, I cover her mouth,
drinking down her orgasm as mine explodes deep within her. With one last thrust, I plant myself
balls-deep,allowingherpulsingcoretopulleverylastdropofmyorgasmfrommeasmyforehead
dropstohercollarbone.

“Goodmorning,”shewhispersafteralongmoment,andIplaceakissagainstherchestthenpull

backtolookdownather,releasingherhandsasIdo.

“Morning.” I grin, watching her slowly smile and stretch her arms over her head, thrusting her

breastsintomyface.

“I think I just found the cure for my hate of mornings,” she moans as I suck her breast that she

offeredupintomymouththenletitgowithapop.

“Isthataninventiontowakeyouuplikethateverymorning?”Iquestion,drawingherotherbreast

intomymouthwhilepullingoutjustabitandslidingmystillsemi-hardcockbackin.

“Definitely,”shebreathes,dragginghernailsthroughmyhairasIrockslowlyinandoutofher.
“Weneedtogetupandshower,”Iremindherastheheelsofherfeetdigintomythighsinasilent

demand.

“Wedo,”sheagrees,swivelingherhips,makingmegroanandmycockstarttoslowlycomeback

tolife.

“Fuck,”Igrumbleagainsthermouthasthealarmgoesoff,breakingintothemomentbetweenus.

“Weneedavacation.”

“Whattimeisit?”Idon’tanswer.I’mtoocaughtupinthewayherbodyisreactingtomytouch.

Arching her back, her head presses into the pillow then her eyes widen. “Oh shit, we have to get
ready!”sheshouts,catchingmeoff-guard,rollingmetomyback,leavingmelyingtherehalf-hard
andstunnedasshequicklyrollsoffmeandoutofthebed.

“Whatthefuck?”Idoanabcrunchandtrytocatchher,butbeforeIcangetmyarmsaroundher

shejumpsbackafoot,themovementmakingherbreastsbounceenticingly.

“Sorry.”Sheshakesherheadthenlooksatmycock,whichisnowrock-hardandpointingatthe

ceiling.“Sorry,”shesaysagain,apologizingthistimetomycockthattwitchesinreply.

“Christ,” I groan, falling to my back and covering my face with my hands in frustration. “You

oweme.”Idon’tevenlookather.Icanhearheropeninghercloset,soIknowshe’scloseandcan
hearmeloudandclear.

“IswearI’llmakeituptoyouwhenwegethome.”Droppingmyhandsfrommyface,Iturnand

glareather.

“Damnstraightyouwill.”
Hereyesroamoverme,andshehalfapologizesthroughasoftgigglebeforeturningandrushing

offtothebathroom,whereIheartheshowerturnonaminutelater.LookingdownatmycockIfall
backintobedwithanaggravatedsigh.It’sgoingtobealongfuckingday.

“C

OFFEE

BLACK

ONE

sugar.”

“Andyou?”thegirlbehindthecounterpullshereyesfrommetoaskAshlyn.Shemustbenew,

sinceeveryoneelsewhoworkshereknowsAshlynbynameandknowshercoffeeorderbyheart.

“I’lltakealargeicedcoffeewithcreamandtwosugars,”shesays,andthegirltypesitintothe

registerbeforelookingatheroncemore.

“Isthatall?”
“No…um…”Shescansthedisplaycase.“Twochocolatecakepops,onebirthdaycakepop,and

oneblueberrymuffin.Oh,andoneofthosechocolatechipcookies.”Ashlynpointsouteachitemas
thegirlsmiles,placingtheitemssheaskedforinapaperbag.

“Hungry?”Iquestionquietly,tuggingherintomyside,andherheadtipsbacktolookupatme.
“Alittle.”Sheshrugs,smilingsheepishly,makingmelaugh.Withoutathought,Idipmyfaceand

touchmymouthtohers,notabletohelpmyself.

“Willyoushare?”Iaskagainstherlips,andsheshakesherhead.
“Probablynot.”
“Not even with your husband you left high and dry this morning? We could have stayed in bed

anothertwentyminutes.Ihadnoideathis,”Ijerkmyheadtowardthedisplay,“iswhyyouwerein
sucharush.”

“Okay,sinceyouputitthatway,IguessIcanshareafewbiteswithyou,”shegrumbles,making

mesmileandkissheragain.Withmyhandagainstherlowerback,Ileadhertotheendofthecounter
where I pick up our drinks and get straws, watching as Ash opens the bag the girl hands her then
pullingoutachocolatecakepop,eatingthewholethinginonegiantbite.

“So I guess you’re not sharing.” I laugh, and she shrugs, chewing like crazy then swallowing

hard.Shethenleansover,withouttakinghercupfromme,andtakesahugegulpthroughthestraw.

“There’sonechocolateoneleft.”Shesmiles,andIshakemyhead.
“You’vegotchocolatealloveryourteeth.”
“DoI?”Shegrins,showingoffherchocolate-coatedmouth,andItossbackmyheadandlaugh.
“You’reanut.”Iwrapmyhandholdingherdrinkaroundherbackandtugherintome.
“I’mnotanut.”Sheleansup,givingmeachocolatykiss,thenfreezeswhensomeonewhimpers

behindus.

Peekingaroundme,hereyeswiden.“Mom,”shewhispers,pullingfromme.“Areyouokay?”
“Fine,I’mfine.Ihavetogo.”SherushesoutofthecoffeeshopwithAshlynhotonherheels.I

follow close, but not too close, and wait a few feet away, watching Lilly pull her daughter in for a
hug,closinghereyes.Ican’thearwhatshesaystoher,butIcanseehermouthmove.Thensheleans
back,kissesAshlyn’scheek,andsendsmeawavebeforegettingintohercar.Standingonthecurb,
Ashlynwrapsherarmsaroundherwaistwhilehermombacksoutanddrivesoff.

“Baby,”Imurmur,seeingtearsinhereyeswhenshestartstowardme.Holdingmyarmsout,she

comesrighttomeanddropsherfacetomychestwhilewrappingherarmsaroundmymiddle.“Ihate
thetears.Pleasestopcrying.”Idohatethem;theyaresomethingIhavenocontrolover,something
thatmakesmefeelhelplesswhenitcomestoher.

“She…shesawus.”
“Iknow,”Iconfirm,andherforeheadbobsupanddownagainstmychest.
“Let’sgetintotheofficewhereIcanputthisshitdownandholdyou.”Ikissthetopofherhead.
“’Kay,”sheagrees,takingherdrinkfrommyhandintheonestillholdingthepaperbagfullof

hertreats,andtwiningmyfingerswithherfreeones.

Walkingthefewfeettotheoffice,Ilethergotounlockthedoorthenletherinbeforeme,only

stoppingbrieflytoshutoffthealarm.“Wehavepatientscominginsoon,”sheremindsmeasIwrap
my hand around hers and lead her to the back, without doing the normal routine of turning on the
lightsandstartingupthecomputers.

“Matt can do it when he gets in,” I say softly, once we’re in my office and the door ’s closed.

Takingherdrinkandthepaperbagfromhergrasp,Idropbothtothetopofmydesk,alongwithmy
coffee. “C’mere.” I take a seat in my chair then maneuver her into my lap, with her legs over my
thighs,andwraponearmaroundherback.“Nowtellmewhatshesaid,”IsayasIpushalargehunk
ofhairoverhershouldersoIcanseeherfacecompletely.

“Shetoldmeshelovesme,thatshe’sstillangry.”Shepullsinadeepbreath,andIcanseeafresh

waveoftearsswimminginhereyes.“Thenshesaidshe’shappyforus.”Asingletearfallsdownher
cheek,andIcatchitwithmythumbwhilemyteethclenchshut.

I knew her parents would both be happy for us. I knew if I could ever make Ashlyn see me for

morethanherbossandadickwewouldhavesomethingbeautiful.Somethinglikewhatmyparents
hadbeforetheydied.Somethingherparentshavenow.IknowIshouldn’thavemarriedherinVegas.
Iknewwhenshesuggestedwegetmarriedasajoke,Ishouldhavetakenherbacktothehotelandput
hertobedsoshecouldsoberup.Ididn’tdowhatIshouldhavedone.Instead,Itookherdirectlytothe
nearest wedding chapel, where I bought us each a ring from a cheep plastic display case, and then
stoodinfrontofaguywholookedalotliketheHulk.

Shelaughedherselfsillyupuntilitwastimeforustosayourvowstoeachother.Duringthatpart

oftheceremony,Iwouldhavelaiddownmoneyshewassober.Herwordswereclear,hereyestoo;
she was in that moment with me, completely conscious of what was taking place. I know I took
advantageofher,butIregretnothing.Iwantedhertoadmittherewassomethingbetweenus,andIgot
mywayintheend.Ijusthatethattherelationshipbetweenherandherparentswascollateraldamage.

“They’llcomearound,”Iassuresoftly,tuckingherheadundermychinthenwrappingmyarms

aroundhermiddle,holdinghertighteragainstme.

“Ihopeso.”Herquiet,sadvoicegratesatmyskin.IknowIneedtogiveherparentstimetocome

totermswithwhathappened,butwiththewayshesoundsrightnow,IknowIwon’tgivethemmuch.I
can’t stand seeing her this sad, especially when I know the reason why she’s so hurt. “We really
shouldgetoutfrontbeforeMattthinkswe’reinherehavingsex.”Shepullsherheadbackandsmiles
abeautifulsmile,andIgrinbackthenlookatthedoor.

“Orwecouldjusthavesex,”Isuggest.Droppingherface,herforeheadrestsagainstmychinas

shelaughs,andherhandstwiddlewiththefrontofmyshirt.

“Ididn’tthinkIcouldeverbethishappy,”shequietlysaysafteramoment,andIpullinabreath,

swallowingdowntheshardsinmythroat.Ididn’tthinkIcouldeverbethishappyeither,notuntilher.
Dippingmychin,Ikissherforeheadandhelpheroffmylap,stoppingherwhenshestartstowalk
away,grabbingherhand.

“Yougonnabeokay?”
Herfacesoftensassheturnstowardme,steppingbetweenmythighs.“I’llbefine.”Shebendsat

the waist, resting her palm on my cheek, then touches her mouth to mine, pulling away far too
quickly.Iwanttodragherbackintomylap,butIknowwedon’thavetime.Lettinghergo,Istandand
watchherpickupthepaperbagandpulloutawhitecakepopcoveredinsprinkles,shovingthewhole
thingintohermouth.

“I’m not even going to be mad at you right now,” I mutter, then laugh when she shrugs and

sashays out of the office with her cup of coffee in her hand and the bag tucked under her arm.
StandingthereIwatchherasshegoes,enjoyingtheviewofherassinatightpencilskirtthatshows
offhercurves,andtheheelsonherfeetthatmakeherlegslookunbelievablylong.

Beforeweweremarried,Imadeitapointtoputmyfootdownaboutherchoiceofofficeattire.

She’s beyond gorgeous, and I fucking hated seeing men check her out. I hated the way their eyes
wouldglazeoverwhenshespoketothem,thewaytheywouldwatchhercomeandgofromaroom.
Evenmore,Ihatedknowingthatifoneofthemeverbuiltupthecouragetoaskherout,shecouldsay
yesandtherewasnotonegoddamnthingIcoulddoaboutit.

Untilnow.Now,she’smine.It’smyringsittingonherfinger.It’smewhoshe’sinlovewith,and

it’smycockthatmakesherbreathcatcheverytimeIenterher.Mencanlookandfantasizeallthey
want,butnoneofthemwilleverexperiencefirsthandwhatitfeelsliketohaveher.Noneofthemwill
everknowwhatitfeelsliketohaveherlove,becauseeverypartofherismine.

Chapter7

Ashlyn

EARING

CELL

phonering,IreachmyhandoutandpatthebedsidetableuntilIfindtheoffensive

pieceofjunk,squintoneeyeopentohittheanswerbutton,andputittomyear.“’Lo,”Ibreathe,half
asleep as Dillon tucks his head into the crook of my neck and wraps his arm tighter around my
middle,pullingmybackclosertohischest.

“Angelgirl.”
“Papa?”Iboltuprightinbed,accidentallyelbowingDilloninthestomach,makinghimgruntand

muttersomethingIcan’tmakeout.Pushingmyhairoutofmyface,Ilookatthetime,andask,“Is
everythingokay?”It’safterteninAlaska,wheremymom’sparentslive,whichislateforthemtobe
calling.

“I just got off the phone with your mama.” Oh, God. I plop myself back down on the bed and

squeezemyeyesclosed,feelingDillonmoveawayfromme,thenseethelightturnonthroughmy
closedeyelids.“Shetoldmeyouranoffandgotmarriedtoyourboss.Isthattrue?”

“Papa,” I sigh. I love my mom’s parents, but they are a little bit crazy and a whole lot in-your-

business,andhavebeenthatwaysinceIcanremember.

“H

OLD

WOMAN

!” Papa shouts as the phone is jostled on his end. “I’m asking her. No, she hasn’t

answeredyet.Ijustaskedthedamnquestion.Holdyourhorses.No,I’mtalkingtoher.Dammit,give
me the phone back,” he barks, and the line goes silent for a moment. Opening my eyes, I sit up,
finding Dillon up in bed. His back against the headboard, the sheet down around his waist, and his
eyeslookingatmeintently.

“YoubettertellmethatyourmamawaspullingmylegandthatyoudidnotgetmarriedtoamanI

havenotmetorapprovedof!”Memawshrieksinmyear,makingmewince.

“Memaw—”
“You did, didn’t you?” she asks before I can answer. “You got married and didn’t even think to

callmeandyourpapa?”

StaringintoDillon’seyes,Iwhisper,“Ididgetmarried.”Iwatchashisfacesoftensandhiseyes

darken.Leaningover,hepushesmyhairbackovermyshoulderandkissesmyneck,causingmyeyes
to slide half-mast. Scooting closer to him, I tuck myself into his side, resting my cheek against his
chestandlistentoMemawshout.

“Ican’tbelievethis!Frank,canyoubelievethis?”

“I

AIN

’

GOT

nochoicebuttobelieveit,”Papamutters,andIfightbackthelaughterIfeelbubblingup

insideofme.

“What the hell happened to the good old days, when a man would ask a woman’s family for

consenttodateher?”shegrumbles,andthistimeIcan’tfightthelaughterIfeel,soIpressmyface
intoDillon’schestandletitgo.“Areyoulaughing?”sheasksindisbelief.

I laugh harder, asking, “Would you like him to pay you in cattle for my hand in marriage,

Memaw?”

“That would be a start, though, I do think you’re worth more than a few head of cattle,” she

muttersdryly,makingmegiggle.

“Whatthehellareyoutalkingaboutcattlefor,woman?”Papashoutsfromadistance,andItiltmy

head back to look at Dillon, wondering if I should put the phone on speaker so he can hear for
himselfwhatrealcrazypeoplesoundlike.

“Nothing,”shesnaps.Thenwhispers,“Whendidyougetoldenoughtogetmarried,babygirl?”
Mylaughterdiesinmythroatandmyeyesfillwithtears.“Idon’tknow,”Iwhisperback,listening

toherpullinaraggedbreath.

“Pleasetellmethathemakesyouhappy,”shepleasquietly,andmyeyesclosetight.
“Ipromiseyouhemakesmehappy,”Isay,feelingDillon’sfingersstillonmyside,wherehewas

drawinglazypatterns,andthenhislipsatthetopofmyheadpressthere.

“Well…IguessIgotnochoicebuttobehappyforyouthen,doI?”
“IwouldlikeyouandPapatobehappyforme.I’mreallysorryIdidn’ttellyou,butthingshave

beenalittlecrazyaroundhere.”

“I bet.” She sighs, then mutters, “Hold on, your granddad is biting at the bit wanting to say

something.Darnit,Frank,letmeletthedarnphonegobeforeyoustranglemewiththestupidcord!”
sheshouts,andIlaughoncemore.

“Angel,isyouryoungmantherewithyou?”
“Yes,Papa.”
“PutyourphoneonspeakersoIcansaysomethingtohim.”
“Papa,”Isigh,knowingwhat’scomingandnotreallywantingtosubjectDillontoit.
“Now,angelgirl,”hedemands,andIreluctantlyputmycellonspeakerandholditoutbetween

Dillonandme.

“Okay,hecanhearyou.”
“Youthere,youngman?”heasks,andDillonsmiles,kissingmyforehead.
“I’mhere.”
“Good,nowyoulistentome,’causeI’monlygoingtosaythisonce.Ifyouhurtmygirl,Iwillfly

myoldasstoTennessee,kidnapyou,bringyoubacktoAlaska,andletthebearshaveyourcold,dead
body.DoyouunderstandwhatI’msayingtoyou?”

“Iunderstand,”hesayswithasmileonhishandsomeface.
“Youbettertakecareofher.”
“Iwill,”heagreesadamantlywhilelookingstraightatme.Thesoftlookinhiseyesmakingmy

stomachfillwithbutterflies.

“Good,nowIexpecttohearthatyoutwoareplanningatripouttoseeussoon.”
“I’llmakeithappen,”Dillonagrees,andIleanfartherintohisside.
“Angel?”
“I’mhere,Papa.”
“Loveyou,girl.”
“Loveyoutoo,”Isay,thenhearthephonegoquietforabriefsecond.
“Loveyou,baby.”
“Loveyou,Memaw,”Iwhisper,closingmyeyes.
“Callmewhenyourguyisn’taroundsoyoucantellmeabouthim,andsendmepicturestomye-

mail. I hope he’s good-looking,” she mutters, and I open my eyes, tipping my head back to look at
Dillon.

“He’sveryhandsome.Youwoulddefinitelyapprove,”Iconfirm,andherollshiseyes.
“Well,atleastthere’sthat,”shegrumbles,butIcanhearinhertonethatshe’ssmiling.“We’lltalk

soon.”

“Wewill,”Iagree,andthephonegoesdeadinmyhand.
Takingthephonefrommygrasp,hetossesittohisbedsidethenrollsmetomybackandlooks

downatme.“Yourgrandparentsarecrazy.NowIknowwhereyougetitfrom.”

“Whatever,I’mnotcrazy.”
“Youare,butI’vebecomeaddictedtoyourbrandofcrazy,”heconfesses,roaminghishandfrom

myneckdownovermybreast.

“That’sgood,”Ibreatheashedipshisheadandkissesmeinawaythatproveshecertainlydoes

lovemykindofcrazy.

“I

STILL

CANNOT

believeyouaremarriedtoDillon.”July,mycousin,sighsdreamilyacrossthetable

fromme,andIwatchherhusband,Wes,turnhiseyestoherandnarrowthem.

“I’m sitting right fucking here,” he growls, and she smiles, shrugging, then takes a sip of the

chocolateshakeinfrontofher.

“Have your parents talked to you?” she asks, and I move my eyes back to her, fighting back

laughterasWesdoessomethingtoherunderthetablethatmakeshereyeswiden.

No,theyhaven’t—notaboutthatanyway.Mydadstillsendsmemessagesdailythatsimplysay“I

loveyou,”andmymomdoesthesame.It’sbeenaweeksincetheyfoundout,andIreallydon’tknow
howmuchmoretimeIshouldgivethem.It’sgettingold.Yes,IshouldhavetoldthemIgotmarried,
butit’snotasifIwenttoanunnery,gotthenunsdrunk,andfilmedanepisodeofNunsGoneWildin
themiddleofSundaymass.IgotmarriedtoamanIlove.Okay,soIdidn’tknowIwasinlovewith
him when I married him, but I am in love with him, and I know he loves me. We’re happy, really
fuckinghappy,andtheyshouldbehappyforme.

“No.”Ishrug,andherfacesoftens.
“They’llcomearound.Justgivethemtime,”shemurmursasItakeagiantbiteofmyhamburger

andwashitdownwithsomeCoke.

“Everyonekeepssayingthey’llcomearound,andIknowtheywill,buttobehonest,I’mkindof

gettingpissedoffatthem.”

“You’retheironlydaughter,”Wesputsin,andIlookathim,withhisdarkmessyhair,blueeyes,

stubble-covered jaw, and faded black tee that is molded to the muscles of his arms and chest like a
second skin. My cousin might think Dillon is hot, but seriously, her husband is totally gorgeous in
thatdarkandwildkindofway.

“Yes,andthat’skindofmypoint.”Ipointmyfryathim.“Theycanbemad,butreally,whatisthe

point?GodforbidIwalkoutintotheroadandgethitbyacar,”Istate,andheraisesabrow.“They’ll
feelguiltyfordoingthis,formakingthisintoagiantdeal,whenitisreallyjustsemantics.”Nowthat
DillonandIhavebeentogetherforawhile,Iknowweweresupposedtobetogether.“Whatwouldit
havematteredifwedatedforaweek,orayear,beforehepoppedthequestion?”

“Yourdadwouldhaveknownaboutit.That’sthedifference,”hesayssoftly,andInod.
“Yeah, but the outcome would have been the same,” I tell him, sitting back and feeling sick. I

shouldn’thaveeatensomuch,butthenagain,IalwayseattoomuchwhenIcomehere.

“Enoughaboutme.Howarethingswithyouguys?”Iask,lookingbetweenthetwoofthem.Fora

whilenowtheyhavebeentryingtohaveababywithnoluck.Iknowonedayitwillhappenforthem,I
just hope it’s soon. I hate seeing my cousin disappointed each month, and I know Wes hates it even
morethanIdo.

“Good.WeleaveinthreeweeksforBarbados.YouandDillonshouldcomealong.It’llbefun.”
“Iwish,”Imutter,takingasipofCoke.“Thingshavebeengettingreallybusyattheoffice.We’re

actuallylookingintohiringanotherreceptionistandtwomoretechstohelpout.”Isigh.Ireallydo
wanttotakeavacation,butIknowIcan’trightnow.

“Dillonreallyisabigdealinthedentalworld,isn’the?”
“Heis,”Iagreewithanod.Iusedtothinkhewasjustbeingpompous,buthereallyisamazingat

what he does. “And since he remolded the office and updated everything, we are constantly getting
new patient requests which is great, but with only him and I on staff it doesn’t make it easy to get
away.”

“Evenwithhowgreattheofficelooks,Istillhategoingthere.”Julyshakesherhead,andIrollmy

eyes.

“You’reawuss.”Igiggle,andshekicksmeunderthetable,makingmelaughharder.
“Ican’thelpitthatIdon’thaveahighpaintolerance.”
“Istillloveyou.”Weskisseshercheek,andsheturnsherheadtosmileathim,restingherhand

againsthisjaw.Watchingthetwoofthem,IwonderifDillonandIlookassappyastheydorightnow.

“Ireallyshouldgetbacktotheoffice.Thankyouguysforstoppingbytoinvitemetolunch.”
“Anytime,andseriously,thinkaboutBarbados.”
“Iwill,”Iagree.AndIwillthinkaboutit,butIknowthereisnowayformetopullatriplikethat

off.Notrightnow,unlessIwentwithoutDillon,andI’mdefinitelynotgoingwithouthim.Ireachinto
my bag for money, but Wes slides his card to the waitress as she passes the table. “Next time, my
treat,” I say, looking at him, only to have him shake his head in denial. “Whatever.” I roll my eyes
thenscootoutoftheboothandleanovertokisseachoftheircheeks.“Callme.Weneedtosetupa
girls’nightsoon,”ItellJuly.

Atthesametime,IhearWesmutter,“Fuckme,”whichmakesmesmile.
“I’ll call soon,” she confirms, and I send them each a wave as I head out of the restaurant.

Stoppingattheedgeofthesidewalkacrossthestreetfromtheoffice,IwatchDillonstandinginthe
doorway with his hand up high, keeping the door open and his eyes on the patient he’s talking to.
Smilingattheolderwoman,henods,sayingsomethingtoherbeforeshewalksoff.Turningtogo
backinside,hiseyescatchmineandhegrins,lettingthedoorclosebehindhim,andhejogsacross
thestreettome.

“Hey.”Ismileoncehe’sinfrontofme.
“Didyouhaveagoodlunch?”heasks,wrappinghisarmaroundmywaist,droppinghismouthto

mineandkissingmesoftlybeforeIcananswer.

“Yes,”IbreatheagainsthislipsthenturnmyheadwhenIhearJulyshouting.
“Oh,myGod!Youguysaresocute,”sheyellsassherushestowardus,outofthecafé,withWes

followingclosebehindher,shakinghishead.“Congratulations,Dillon.”Shegrins,givinghimahug
andmakingmelaugh.

“Thanks,” Dillon mutters, hugging her back with one arm, since his free hand is still holding

mine.

“Weshoulddoadoubledate.”Shesmilesexcitedly,lookingbetweenthetwoofus.
“Ignoreher.She’scrazy,”Wesmutters,takingJulybythewaistandpullingherbacktohisside,

thenstickingouthishand.“Congrats,man.Welcometothelandofcrazy.”HesmilesasJulysmacks

hisshoulder,andDillonshakeshishandchuckling.

Rollingmyeyes,Iseemycousindothesame.“Iwishwehadtimetochat,butIneedtogetback

to the clinic,” she grumbles, looking at her watch then me. “Call me soon, so we can set up girls’
night.Maybeweshouldhaveabachelorettepartyforyou,sinceyoudidn’thaveone.”Shesmiles,and
hereyeslightwithmischief.

“Nothappening,”DillonandWessayinunison,makingusgirlslaugh.
“We’llsee.”Shegrinsthenleansover,givingmeahugandspeakingsoftlyagainstmyear,“You

guyslookperfecttogether,andseriously,I’msohappyforyou.”TearsstingmynoseandIhugher
tighter.Imaynothaveanysisters,butwhoneedsthemwhenyouhavesomeofthebestcousinsinthe
world?

“Loveyou,”Imurmur,feelingherarmstightenbeforeshestepsback.
“See you two around,” Wes says with a flick of his fingers as he takes July’s hand, leading her

towardhisbikethatisparkedafewfeetaway,nearthecurb.

“Youarenothavingabacheloretteparty,”Dillonmutters,justloudenoughformetohearashe

movesustowardtheroad.

“We shall see.” I grin, stepping ahead of him, then hear him roar, “Nooo!” as his hand holding

minetugsmebackroughly.Thesuddenimpactofacarclippingmyhipandthighsendsmespiraling
totheconcrete,wheremyheadbounces,turningeverythingblack.

“Y

HEARD

THE

doctor. She’s going to be fine. Calm down. You won’t do her any good if you’re a

fuckingwreckwhenshewakesup,”mydad’sgruffvoicesaysoffinthedistance.MyheadfeelslikeI
gothitintheskullwithabat,andmyeyesaretooheavytoopen.IfeelmyselfstarttopanicasItryto
fightagainstwhateverthehellhasdraggedmeunder,butitseemsimpossibleandeventuallyIgive
up,lettingthedarknesstakeover.

“Baby,youhavegottowakeupandletmeknowyou’reokay,”Dillonwhispersagainstmyear,

soundingworried,andIfrown.Whywouldn’tIbeokay?Thenthepaininmyheadandsideregisters,
andIremembergettinghitbyacar.

“Dillon.”Withoutopeningmyeyes,IknowI’minthehospitalbythesmellofdisinfectant.
“Finally.”Hiswarmhandrestsagainstmycheek,andmybodyrelaxeseversoslightlyfromhis

touch.“Openyoureyesforme.”Itry.Ireallytry,buttheyaresoheavy.“Pleaseopenyoureyes,”he
murmurs, resting his soft lips against my forehead. I fight against the weight, and my eyes slowly
flutter open. It takes a second to focus, but when I do, I find his face looming above me and his
worriedeyessearchingmine.“Thereyouare.”Histhumbslidesdownthebridgeofmynose,causing
myheavyeyelidstodriftclosedonceagain.“Lookatme,gorgeous.”Iblinkbackopenandlookupat
hishandsomeface.

“Fuck.” He bends, touching his mouth to mine. “I love you. Stay awake for me,” he demands,

leaningback,pickinguptheremoteattachedtothebed,andpressingsomethingonitbeforegrabbing
apinkcupwithastrawinitandplacingitagainstmymouth.“Slow,”heinstructsasIdrinkdowngulp
aftergulpofcoolwater.

Releasingthestraw,Ishakemyheadthenwhisper,“Igothitbyacar.”Iwatchhiseyescloseand

hisjawclench.

“Honey?” my mom calls softy, pulling my attention from Dillon. Turning my head, I watch her

cometowardmethroughthedimlylitroom.“Youscaredmeandyourdad,”shescolds,stoppingat
thesideofthebed.“We’vebeenworriedsick.”Shebendsovertherailandengulfsmeinahugthat
squeezestheoxygenoutofmylungs,makingmewinceinpain.

“Sorry,”Icroakout.
“Easy,”Dillongrumblesfrommyside.
“Where’sDad?”Ibreatheintoherneck,andshelooksoverhershoulderthentakesastepback.
“Righthere,”mydadsays,soundingchokedup,andIseehe’samess.Hiseyesareredandhis

hairisindisarray.“I’llalwaysberighthere.”Hegetsclose,restinghishandagainstmycheekthen
hislipsagainstmyforeheadbeforelookingdownatme.

“Igothitbyacar,”Irepeat,andhiseyesslideclosed.
“Let’snottalkaboutthatrightnow,”Dilloncutsin,andItiltmyheadtolookathim,noticinghis

jawticking.SomethingInoticedthefirsttimewhenImentionedgettinghit.

“Howareyoufeeling?”Momasks,restingherhandovermine,andIturnmyheadbacktoward

her,wincingfromthemovement.

IfeellikeI’vebeenhitbyacar,Ithinkbutdon’tsay,sincethatstatementseemstomakeDillon

madeverytimeIdo.“Myheadhurtsalittle,”Ilie.Myheadispoundingactually,andmyhipiskilling
me.

“You hit your head pretty hard. You had to get eight stitches,” Dad explains, and I lift my hand

towardmyhead,onlytohaveDillongrabmywrist,stoppingmebeforeIcanfeelforthem.

“Ashlyn,”Dr.Woodssays,comingintotheroom,andIwonderwhatshe’sthinkingsinceshe’sthe

doctor who stitched up my foot weeks ago after Dillon and Jax got into it. “I’m so glad to see you
awake.Howareyoufeeling?”sheasks,lookingatmethendroppinghereyestothecomputerpadin
herhand,typingsomethinginwhilewalkingtowardthebedI’mlyingin.

“HowlongwasIoutfor?”Ifrown,andshepullshereyesfromthecomputertomeetmygaze.
“Justaboutanhour.”
“An hour?” I breathe, feeling Dillon’s hand squeeze mine. I knew I was out of it, but being

unconsciousforanhourisbad…reallybad.

“You’reokay,”shesaysgently,gettingcloser,forcingmymomanddadtomoveaway.“Butyou

have suffered a small acute subdural hematoma that we need to keep an eye on.” At her words, my
hand holding Dillon’s tightens in distress. “Do you mind if we ask you a few questions?” she
continues,notknowingmyinsidesareseizingupwithworry.

“Sure,”Iwhisper,andshesmilessoftlythenlooksatamanIdidn’tnoticebefore.
“ThisisDr.Desmond,”sheintroduces,andhesmilesgently,takingthepadfromherasshehands

itover.“He’sgoingtobeaskingyousomequestionswhileIcheckyourwoundandvitals.”

“Okay.”ItrytorelaxwhileDr.Desmondasksmequestionsaboutcurrenteventsandthepeoplein

theroom,andDr.Woodschecksmyinjuriesandthenmypulse.

“You are going to be okay,” Dr. Woods assures, slipping off a pair of latex gloves and tossing

them in a trash bin near the bed a few minutes later. “I’m going to release you to go home.” She
smilesasDr.Desmondsaysaquietgoodbyeandleavestheroom.

“Areyousureit’ssafeforhertogohome?”Dillonasks,cuttingheroff,andthedoctorlooksat

him.

“I’msure,butifshebecomesnauseous,dizzy,orifherheadachecontinuesformorethanafew

hours,shewillneedtocomebackandhaveaCTscandone.”

“Maybesheshouldstay,justtobesafe,”hesuggests,givingmyhandasqueeze.
“Dillon,”Isigh.Iknowhe’sworried,butthereisnowayinhellIwanttostayatthehospitalifI

don’thaveto.

“IthinkDillon’sright.Ithinkyoushouldstay,”mydadmutters,andIhuff,closingmyeyes.
“Thereisreallynoreasonforhertostay.She’snotsufferedanymemorylossandhervitalsare

allperfectlynormal.IfIthoughtforonemomentitwouldbebetterforhertostay,Iwouldinsistshe
doso,”Dr.Woodsconveyssoftly,lookingbetweenthetwooverbearingmeninmylife.

“Iwanttogohome.Iwanttosleepinmyownbed,”Isay,andDillonlooksdownatme.Icantell

he’snothappy;Icanseehe’stornbetweengivingmewhatIwant,andhavinghiswayandkeepingme
hereuntilhefeelssureI’mokay.

“Someone will need to wake you every four hours tonight. No driving for a few days, and no

drinkingeither.”

“We’ll take her home with us and make sure to wake her,” Dad interjects, and Dillon’s jaw

tightens,alongwithhishandstillholdingmine.

“Overmydeadbody,”hegritsoutthroughhisteeth,glaringatmydadacrossthebedfromhim.
“I can make that happen,” Dad growls back, and I feel tears fill my eyes. Apparently, not even

gettinghitbyacarcanmakethismessbetter.

“Stopitnow,youtwo.Lookatwhatyou’redoing,”Momhisses,pointingatme,andbothmydad

and Dillon’s eyes drop to me in the bed and soften. “Both of you follow me, now,” she barks,
stompingtowardthedoor.Shakinghishead,mydadleansover,kissingmycheekbeforefollowing
behindher.

“I’llberightback.”Dillonsighs,bendingtokissmyforeheadasthetearsspilloverandfalldown

mycheeks.“Pleasestopcrying.Everythingisokay.”

“Okay,”Iagree,tryingtofightthetearsback.
“Goodgirl,I’llberightoutsidethedoor.”
Hekissesmesoftlythenfollowsmyparentsoutoftheroom,whereIhearmymomshout,“Cash

Mayson,ifsomeoneevertriedtotakemefromyouwhenIwasinjured,youwouldlooseyourever-
loving mind, so cut Dillon some slack! And Dillon, Ashlyn is Cash’s daughter. He, of course, is
worriedabouthislittlegirl,sotakethatintoconsiderationandstopbeingadick.”

God,Ilovemymom.
“You’realuckygirltohavesomanypeoplewholoveyou,”Dr.Woodssays,makingmejump.I

completelyforgotshewasstillhere.

“Youwouldthinkso,exceptthepeopleIlovehateeachother,”Imumble,feelingafreshwaveof

tearsfillmyeyes.IhatethatmyDadandDillonarenotgettingalong,andIhatethatI’mthecauseof
theriftbetweenthem.Theyweren’tbestfriendsbefore,buttheyatleastlikedeachother.

“We don’t hate each other,” my dad’s voice cuts in, and my heart stops. “We love you and are

worriedaboutyou.”Wipingmycheekswithmypalms,IhearDr.Woodswhisperthatshe’llbeback
withmydischargepapers,feelinghersqueezemyshoulderbeforeleaving.“Iwasbeinghardheaded.”
Dad gets close, taking my hand. “I didn’t want to believe my baby was grown up enough to get
married.Ishouldhavetalkedtoyoudaysago,butIdidn’tknowwhattosay.”

“Dad,”Iwhimper,andhishandcomestorestagainstmycheek.
“Iloveyou.You’remylittlegirl.Youwillalwaysbemylittlegirl,butIalsoknowyou’reasmart

womanwhohasnevermadeabaddecision.”

“I’msorryIdidn’ttellyou.Ijustdidn’tknowhow.Iknewyouwouldbedisappointedinme,”I

confessasmoretearsslidedownmycheeks.

“Youcouldneverdisappointme.”Sobbing,Ileanup,wrappingmyarmsaroundhim,notcaring

thatithurtslikehelltodoso.“Comeon,stopcryingbeforeyourhusbandreallyhasaconniption,”he
says,soundinglikehe’ssmiling.Ishakemyheadashepullsawayenoughtolookdownatme.“Ilove
you.”

“I love you too,” I implore, then look at my mom, who is crying with her hand covering her

mouth.

Rushingtowardus,shewrapsmeinacarefulhug.“Iloveyou.”
“Iloveyoutoo,”Ibreathe,blinkingbackthewetinmyeyeswhenIfindDillon’seyesstudying

eachtear.Clearingmythroat,Iwipemyfaceandlaybackinbed.

“Wasthepersonwhohitmeokay?”Iask,andmydadstepsback,tuckingonehandintothefront

pocketofhisjeans,whilewrappinghisotherarmaroundmymom,tuckingherclosetohischest.

“Wedon’tknowwhoitwas,”Dadsaysquietly,andIstudyhissuddenuneaseandfeelthevibein

theroomthickenwithtensionandanger.

“Didn’ttheystop?”It’snotliketheydidn’tknowtheyhitme.Imaybesmall,butIknowtheyhad

tofeeltheimpactoftheircarhittingme.

“Thepolicearelookingintoit,”Dillonstates,inatonethatsayshedoesn’twanttotalkaboutit

anymore.

“Theydon’tknowwhoitwas?”Iwhisper,feelingsicktomystomach.Whatkindofpersonhits

someonewithacaranddrivesoff?

“Let’snottalkaboutthatrightnow,”Momcutsin,steppingawayfrommydad,comingoverand

pushingdowntherailonthesideofthebed.“Let’sjustfocusongettingyoubetter.”Shesmiles,butI
cantellit’sforced.“Jaxdroppedoffsomeclothesforyoutochangeinto,sinceyourswereruined.I
puttheminthebathroomforyou.”

“Jaxdidn’tstay?”Ifrown,andsheshakesherhead.
“No.Hewantedto,butsomethingcameupwithwork.”Sheshrugs,andIknowthenthatI’mthe

something that came up with work. I have no doubt he’s searching for the person who hit me right
now.

“I’llhelpyouchange,”Dillonmutters,pickingmeupoffthebedwhilemymomhoverscloseto

us.

“Icanhelpher,”Momsays,andDillon’sjawtightens.
“I’ve got her,” he states quietly, and I rest my hand against his tense jaw while he carries me

acrosstheroomtothebathroom,whereheshutsthedoorbeforemymomhasachancetofollowus
in.Settingmetomyfeet,hesteadiesmewithhishandsonmywaistthensearchesmyeyes.“Areyou
sureyou’reokaytogohome?”heaskscautiously.

“I’msure.”
“Youswearyou’lltellmeifweneedtocomeback?”
Ifighttheurgetorollmyeyesathisoverprotectiveness,andmumble,“Iswear,”whileslipping

thehospitalgownoffmyshouldersandlettingitdroptotheflooratmyfeet.

“Look at you.” His fingers skim softly down my shoulder, which is covered in road rash, then

overmyblackandbluecoveredhipandthigh.

“I’mokay,”Iassurehim,seeingtheuneaseinhiseyesastheyscanmeoverfromheadtotoe.
“You’re not okay, so stop saying you are,” he growls, looking into my eyes and palming my

cheekgently.“Youwerehitbyacarandwereunconscious.Whenwegottothehospital,theythought
youweregoingtoneedsurgerybecauseofthehityoutooktothehead.Nofuckingpartofthatsays
you’reokay.”

“Please calm down,” I whisper, hating the fear I see in his gaze. “Dr. Woods said I’m okay, and

she’sright.I’msore,butI’mallright,andifthatchanges,IswearI’lltellyouandletyoubringme
backhere.”

“Ifsomethinghappenstoyou…”Hecloseshiseyesbrieflybeforeopeningthembackup.“Ican’t

eventhinkaboutwhatthatwoulddotome.”

“What are you not telling me?” I question gently, knowing in my gut he’s keeping something

fromme.Hisfearispalpable.

“Nothing.”HeshakeshisheadthenturnsmeawayfromhimbeforeIcanaskhimmore.
Catching my reflection in the mirror, my throat closes up. The side of my face, from my

cheekbone to my temple, is an ugly shade of yellow-green, and my new blonde hair is copper-
coloredandmattedwithbloodattheroots.“Oh,myGod.”Imoveachunkofmyhairtothesideand
seealargeportionhasbeenshavedcleantomyscalp,whichisangry-lookingwitharowofstitches
inthecenter.

“I’m sorry,” he whispers behind me, and I catch his gaze in the mirror. “They didn’t have any

otheroption.”

Swallowing,Inod,knowingnowisnotatimeformetobevain.“Itwillgrowback,”Iassurehim

andmeatthesametime.

“Itwill.”HekissesmyroadrashcoveredshouldersoftlythenpicksupmyT-shirtthatissittingon

thesideofthesink.“Let’sgetyoudressedandthengetyouhome.”

“Please.”Iturntowardhim,lettinghimsliptheshirtonovermyheadandhelpmefeedmyarms

throughtheholesinthesleeves.Ithenwatchhimgetdownonhissuit-coveredkneesandholdopena
pairofmysweats.

“Putyour hands onmy shoulder forbalance,” he instructs, andI rest myhands on his shoulder

andliftmyfootthendothesamewiththeoppositeside.OnceIhavebothfeetin,hepullsthemupmy
legs, being careful of my thigh and hip as the material skims over my bruised skin. “There.” He
kissesmystomachthenslidesapairofflip-flopsontomyfeet.

“WherearemyshoesIhadon?”Iknow,ofallthethingsIshouldbeworriedaboutrightnow,my

shoesshouldnotbeoneofthem,butmyLouisVuittonpeep-toe,leopard-printheelswereoneofthe
firstthingsIeverboughtwithmyownmoney,andtheyareoneofmyprizedpossessions.

“Your cousin has them,” he mutters, dumping the gown I had on in a large red container in the

cornerofthebathroom.

“Who?”
“July.SheandWesdidn’tseewhathappened,theyheardmyshoutandthecar…”Hestopstalking

andshakeshishead,runninghisfingersthoughhishairroughly.“Iwasgoingtoputyouinmycar,
butJulywasadamantaboutnotmovingyouandinsistedwecallanambulance.Theystayedwithme
untiltheambulancegottheirthentheyfollowedustothehospital.”

“Theydidn’tstay?”
“Theystayedforawhile,buttheyweren’tallowedtostayintheroom,sotheywenthomeafterthe

doctorassuredthemyouwereokayandJaxtookoff.”

“YoushouldcallherandtellherI’mokay.”
“Yourmomsentoutamasstextwhenwewereinthehallearlier.I’msurethestateofTennessee

willbeovertoseeyoutomorrow,”hesaysashecarefullypicksmeup.

“Icanwalk.”
“Youmaybeableto,butIwouldrathercarryyou.Openthedoorforme.”
Ileanoverandturnthenob,andhepushesusoutwithhisshoulder.
Assoonaswestepoutofthebathroom,mymomcomestowardus,holdingafewpapersinher

handandgivingthemtome.“Dr.Woodsdroppedthoseoff.Shesaidyouneedtocomebackinafew
daystohaveyourstitcheschecked,alongwiththewound,tomakesureit’shealingproperlyandis
notinfected.”

“Okay,”Iagree,andherfacesoftensasIyawn.

“Howisyourheadachenow?”
“Notasbadasitwas.”IrestmyheadagainstDillon’sshoulder,feelingexhausted.“I’mjusttired.”
“Let Dillon take you home,” Dad mutters, taking my mom’s hand in his. “We’ll come over

tomorrowtocheckonyou.”

“Sure,butwe’restayingatDillon’shouse,soyou’llhavetocomeoverthere,”Iinformthem,and

their eyes widen. “Oh, come on,” I sigh. “Was I really that vocal about his house?” I question as
Dillonchuckles.

“Alittle.”MomsmilesasDadshakeshishead,grinning.
“It’sgrowingonme,”Iadmit,andDillon’sarmstightenslightly.It’snotalie;itreallyisgrowing

onme.Ilovethekitchenandthelibrary,butIreallylovehisbedroomandhiscloset.Ialsolovethat
hehasagianttubwithjetsinit.Andreally,whereverheis,that’swhereIwanttobe.

“Andthefountain?”Dadaskswitharaisedbrow.Apparently,Iwasvocalaboutthattoo.
“Istillhateit,butIwasthinkingaboutbuyingsomegoldfishtoputinit.”Ishrug.
“Youreallyarecrazy.”Dillonlaughsalongwithmyparents.
“Comeon.Wewillwalkyouout,”Dadsays,andDillonandIfollowbehindmyparents,outofthe

hospital. After giving them each a hug and a promise to call if anything changes, they wait with us
untilDillonhasmebuckledinthecarbeforetheyheadformydad’struckacrossthelot.

Once Dillon’s behind the wheel, I turn my head to look over at him and smile. “I should have

gottenhitbyacaraweekago,”Ijoke,thenwishIdidn’twhenhiseyesdarkenandnarrow.

“Donotsayshitlikethat.”
“Itwasajoke,”Idefendquietly,andherunshishandsroughlydownhisface.
“It’snotfunny.Iwouldratherhaveyourparentshatemefortherestofmylifethantoseeyouin

thehospitaleveragain.”

“Okay.”Irestmyhandagainsthischeek.“Pleasecalmdown.I’mokay,remember?”
“Iknow.”Heturnshishead,kissingmypalm,thenstartsupthecar.Icantellhe’sstilltenseashe

drives,butIhavenoideawhattosaytoputhimatease.Assoonaswegettothehouse,heparksinthe
garage without a word and carries me inside and up the stairs to the bedroom, where he helps me
brushmyteethandgetundressed.Crawlingintobedafewminuteslater,Irolltomysideandwatch
himstripdowntohisboxers.

“Areyoucomingtobed?”IaskwhenIseehe’sputtingonapairofsleeppants,andnotstripping

downlikehenormallydoeseverynight.

“In a few. I just need to make a quick call,” he explains, coming over to where I’m lying, then

bendstokissme.“Trytosleep.I’llberightback.”

“Sure,”Iagree,watchinghimpickuphiscellphoneoffthebed,wherehetossedit.Idon’tknow

how long I lie there looking at the ceiling, but eventually exhaustion takes over and I fall asleep
beforehecomesback.

“Wakeup,baby.”
“Iswearifyouwakemeuponemoretime,I’lldivorceyou,”Igrowlintomypillow,prayingI

fallbackasleepmorequicklythistime.AllIwantistosleep,buteverytimeIdohe’swakingmeup,
whichwouldn’tbesobad,butittakeslongerandlongerforunconsciousnesstofindmeagaineach
time.

“We’re never getting a divorce.” He kisses my shoulder, and I sigh, turning to face him and

forcinghimtohisback.“How’syourhead?”

“Nottoobad.Myheadache’sgone.”
“Good,”hemurmurs,kissingthesideofmyhead.“Sleep,baby,”hecommands,lightlyrunning

hisfingersdownmybarearm.

“Okay.”Iclosemyeyes,butIdon’tsleep.Instead,Ilistentothesoundofhisbreathingevenout

andhisheartbeatthumpagainstmyearasmymindreplaysthesoundofhisshoutrightbeforethecar
hitme.

Chapter8

Ashlyn

YING

THE

library with my bare feet on the sofa and my head on a pillow, I rest the book I’m

reading against my chest and look out the window, watching the sky darken and a tree sway in the
breeze.It’sbeenthreedayssinceIwasreleasedfromthehospital,andforthelastthreedays,things
between Dillon and I have been tense. I know he’s worried and frustrated with everything that has
happened,andthereisnothingIcandotohelpputhimatease.

The morning I woke up at Dillon’s after the accident, my parents showed up, along with the

police,whoneededtotakemystatement.Ifoundoutfromthemthatafewwitnessesreportedseeinga
blackNissanAltimawithdark-tintedwindowsdouble-parkedwiththedriverbehindthewheel.They
then said the moment I stepped out into the road, the car drove toward me and swerved in my
direction. The only thing that prevented me from getting hit head-on was the fact Dillon pulled me
backbeforeItookanotherstepintothestreet.

Icouldhavebeenkilled.Thatmaybealittlebitdramatic,butmaybenot,sincesomeonewantedto

intentionallyhurtme.Thethingthatworriesmethemostisthepolicehavenotbeenabletofindthe
car,evenwiththestoryoftheincidentappearinginthenewsthelastthreedays.

“Hey.”
Coming out of my head, I find Dillon standing in the doorway with his tired eyes on mine. His

hairisrumpledandhisfaceisunshaven,buthestilllooksasgorgeousaseverinadarkgraysuit,and
acrispwhiteshirtthatisunbuttonedathisneck.

“You’rehomeearly,”Imurmur,watchinghimwalktowardme.Assoonashe’sclose,hetosses

mycellphoneontothecoffeetableinfrontofmeandliftsmyfeet.Takingaseatonthecouch,he
restsmylegsoverhislap,runninghishandupmybarelegthenthigh.

“Ijustcametocheckonyou.Ihavetogobackinabit.”
“You didn’t have to do that. I told you earlier, I’m okay,” I remind him, covering his hand with

mineandlacingourfingerstogether.

“Iactuallydid,sinceyouhaven’tansweredyourphonethelastfivetimesIcalledyou,andyour

momsaidshedroppedyouathomeovertwohoursago,”hemutters,andImovemyeyestomycell
phone.

“Oh.”Ichewtheinsideofmycheek,feelingguiltythathedrovehomejusttocheckonmewhenI

knowhe’sbeenswampedwithpatientssinceI’vebeenoutoftheoffice.

“It’sfine.Itgavemeanexcusetocomeseeyou.”Heliftsmyhand,pressingakisstomyknuckles,

making my belly melt. “You washed your hair,” he points out, and I run my fingers down my still
damphairwithmyfreehandwhilenodding.

“Dr. Woods said it was okay to wash it today, so Mom helped me when I got home from my

appointment.”

“Iwouldhavehelpedyouthisevening,”hesaysashepicksupapieceofmydamphair,rollingit

betweenhisfingers.

“I know, but I didn’t want to wait.” I’ve hated not being able to wash my hair. The first thing I

askedDr.WoodswhenIsawhertodaywasifIcouldwashit,andshesaidyes,aslongasIwascareful
anddriedtheareaafterIwasdone.

“DidDr.Woodssayanythingelse?”
“Justthatifnoinfectionsetsin,Ishouldbeabletohavethestitchesremovedintendays.Andthat

IcanreturntoworkMonday,aslongasIfeeluptoit.”

Frowning,heshakeshishead.“MaybeIshouldcallandspeaktoher.Mondayisonlythreedays

away.Thatdoesn’tseemlikeanadequateamountoftimetohealproperlyfromaheadinjury.”

“Stopbeingcrazyoverprotective.I’mfine,andI’mcomingbacktoworkMonday,whetheryou

likeitornot.”

“We’llsee.”Heshrugs,andmyteethsnaptogether.TherearetimeswhenIlovehowprotectivehe

is,buttherearealsotimesitmakesmeseriouslycrazy.

“HaveyouheardanythingfromJax?”AssoonasIask,hiseyesshutterandhelooksawayfrom

me.

“No.”
“No,youhaven’t,orno,you’renotgoingtotellmeaboutit?”Iask,knowingtheansweralready,

sinceJaxhashadthesamereactioneachtimeI’vetalkedtohim.Meaning,heclosesdowncompletely.

“Ifhetellsmesomethingyouneedtoknow,I’lltellyou.”
“Willyou,though?Youwerepissedwhenthepolicetoldmesomeonetriedtorunmedownon

purpose,andIthinkthatissomethingIdefinitelyneededtoknow,”Isay,watchinghisjawtighten.

“Wedon’tknowtheyweretryingtohityou.AndlikeI’vetoldyou,we’redealingwithit.Right

now,all you need to do is restand heal,” he grits out, and I pullmy legs from his lap and sit back
againstthearmrestofthecouch,tuckingmyfeetundermewhilepointingathim.

“Theyswervedtowardmewiththeircar.Ithinkit’sobvioustheyweretryingtohitme.”
“Theycouldhavebeentryingtohitme,”hestates,andmybloodrunscold.
“What?” I breathe, studying him as his eyes close and his hand runs through his hair in

aggravation.

“We’renottalkingaboutthis.”
“Doyouthinktheywe’retryingtohityou?”Iquestion,feelingpanicked.Ididn’teventhinkabout

thefacthewasrightnexttome.Thatpersoncouldhavebeentryingtohithim,buthitmeinstead.

“Baby, seriously, please fucking drop it. If something comes up that you need to know about, I

willtellyou.Untilthen,justfocusongettingbetter.”

“YousoundlikemydadandJax.I’mreallygettingsickofyouguystellingmewhatIneed.”Since

Igothome,mydad,Jax,andhehaveallbeensayingthesamething,andmymom,whoisnormally
theonlypersonwhoissaneinmyfamily,hasbeenmuteonthesituation,whichisn’tlikeheratall.

“Ithoughtyou’dbehappyweareallgettingalong.”
“Bondingoverannoyingmeisn’tworkingforme,”Igrumble,watchinghislipstipupinasmall

smile.Seeingthatsmile,Irealizeit’sbeenawhilesinceI’veseenhimdothatorlaugh.“Imissseeing
yousmile,”Iwhisperwithoutthinking,andhisfacesoftensashishandreachesouttowraparound
mywrist.

“Come here.” He drags me onto his lap to straddle him then slides his hand behind my neck,

puttingpressurethereuntilwe’resharingthesamebreath.“Stopfightingwithmeabouttakingcareof
you.”

“I’mnotfightingwithyou,”Idisagree,eventhoughIkindofam,butstillkindofnot.
“Iloveyou,”hewhispers,runninghisthumbdownthecolumnofmythroat,andmybodymelts

furtherintohis.

“Iknowyoudo,”Iwhisperback,watchinghimgrin.
Givingmyneckasqueeze,hismouthcomesclosertomine.“Tellmeyouloveme.”
“YouknowIdo.”
“Yes,butIwanttohearyousayit.Thereisnothingbetterthanhearingyoutellmethatyoulove

me.”

Searchinghiseyes,Ileanevencloser,andwhisper,“Iloveyou,eventhoughyou’reannoying,”

againsthislips.ThenIwatchcloseupashiseyesdarken.Leaningin,henipsmybottomlipbefore
soothingitwithhistongue.“Dillon,”Igasp,pressingintohiserection.

“Righthere.”Hisfreehandslidesaroundmybackandhelocksmyhipstightlyagainsthisashis

mouthtakesmineinadevastatingkissthatleavesmewantingmore,andwhimperingatthelossofhis
mouthwhenhepullsawayandrestshisforeheadagainstmine.

“KeepyourphoneclosesoyoucanhearitifIcall,”hedemands,slidinghishandfromtheback

ofmynecktotheundersideofmyjaw.

“Iwill,”Iagree,restingmyhandsagainsthischestandmylipsagainsthisinasofttouch.
“IwishIdidn’thavetogobacktotheoffice.”
Iwishthattoo.Iwishwecouldgetawayforafewdays,justthetwoofus.
“Metoo.”Imovemyhandsuphischestandneck,thenhisjaw,pausingtorunmythumboverhis

bottomlip.

“Kissme,baby.Igottago,”hemurmurs,andIpullmyeyesfromhismouthtolookathim.
“IfIdon’tkissyou,willyoustay?”Ipout,andheshakeshishead,pullingmecloserandnipping

mybottomlipagain,thistimehardenoughtosting.Gasping,mymouthopens,andhistongueslides
in against mine. I’ve missed this over the last few days. I’ve missed feeling consumed by him. I’ve
missedhavinghishandsandmouthonme.MybodystartstocomebacktolifeandIrockagainsthis
erection,feelingitrubagainstmyclit.“Don’tmakemestop,”Ibeg.Idon’twanthimtostopthis.He’s
beensocarefulwithmesinceIgothome,andthough,Idolovehissoftside,Imissthefeelingofhim
owningme.Pullingbackslowly,hepressesonemorekissagainstmylips.

“Igottago,baby,”hebreathesregretfully,makingmesighinfrustration.
“You owe me,” I grumble, squirming on his lap, and his erection hits me in just the right spot

oncemore,makingmybreathcatch.

“I’ll pay up.” He smirks, flipping me gently to my back on the couch. “We’ll go out to dinner

tonight, your choice, so think about where you want me to take you.” He pecks my lips then stands
quickly,adjustinghimselfashedoes.“Callmeifyouneedme.”

“Ineedyounow,”Iwhine,tossingmyarmsovermyheadindefeat.
“Poor baby.” His eyes slide over me, and for a brief second, I think he’s going to change his

mind,butinstead,heshakeshisheadandadjustshimselfyetagain.“I’llbehomebyfive.”Heleans
over,kissingmeoncemorebeforegrumblingsomethingunderhisbreathasheleaves,shakinghis
head.

Gettingupfromthecouch,Ipickupmycellphoneandtakeitwithme,wantingaglassofwater.

Movingthroughoneofthelivingroomsanddownthelongbackhalltowardthekitchen,Inoticethe
door that leads out to the garage is open and I feel the hairs on the back of my neck rise on end.
Dillonisalwaysoverlycarefulaboutlockingup;he’sneverleftanyofthedoorsopenorunlocked.

Hearingsomething,myheartbeginstoraceandmybreathfreezesinmylungsaspanicstartsto

set in. Leaning back against the wall, I listen carefully, swearing I hear the sound of someone
breathing.“Dillon?”Icall,feelingmyheartinmythroatwhenIgetnoresponse.Liftingmycellthat
is clutched in my hand, I press 9-1-1 then move toward the door with my thumb on the call button.

“Dillon,”Irepeat,thenjumpandscreamwhenthedoorisshovedopen.

“Dammit,Leo!”Icry,holdingmyhandovermyheartthatfeelslikeit’saboutreadytoexplode

outofmychest.“Youscaredthecrapoutofme,”Ichide,scoopingupmycatbeforehecangetaway
fromme.Hissing,heswipesatmychin,butthengivesuponbeingmadandstartstopurrwhenIflip
himtohisbackandrubhistummy.Shuttingthedoortothegarage,Ilockitandheadforthekitchen
withLeopurringloudlyinmyarms.

Since we’ve been staying here, he’s been laying low. I don’t think he knows what to do with so

much room to roam, and most days I find him hiding in the top of the towel closet in the hallway
upstairs.“Haveyoubeenlockedinthegarageallday?”Iask,kissinghisheadbeforedroppinghimto
thetopoftheislandinthemiddleofthekitchen.

Stretchingout,helooksaroundthenlooksatmebeforefallingtohisbottom.“Youdidn’teveneat

breakfast,”Isay,pickinguphisstillfullbowloffoodandsettingitonthecounternearhim.Looking
atthebowl,hebendstosniffitthenlooksbackatmeandblinks.“Isitnottoyourliking,KingLeo?”I
smile, rubbing the top of his head. Seeing he’s not going to eat it, I dump the contents down the
disposalandrinsethedishbeforegrabbinghimanewcontaineroffood.Assoonasthedishisonthe
counternearhim,hesniffsitagain.Obviouslyfindingittohisliking,heshoveshisfaceinthebowl
andbeginstoeat.

Takingaseatononeofthestools,Iwatchhimlickthebowlclean,andthenwatchashewanders

aroundthetopoftheislandforamomentbeforehoppingacrosstoanothercounteranduptothetop
of the fridge. “Are you going to hide up there for the rest of the day?” I ask him as he walks in a
circlebeforelyingdown.“Iguessthatisayes,”Imutter,takingasipofwater,andthenjumpasmy
cellphonerings.Seeingit’smycousinJune,Ipickitupandputittomyear,smiling.“Hey,you.”

“Hey,areyouhome?”sheasksasthesoundofthedoorbellringsthroughthequiethouse.
“Yes.”Isnort,slidingoffthestool.“ButIthinkyou’resupposedtocalltomakesureI’mhome

beforeshowingup.Notcallasyouringthebell.”Ilaugh,headingforthefrontdoor.

“I’mnotthereyet.Ijustleftwork.Ishouldbethereinfive.”
“Oh,someone’satthedoor.Ithoughtitwasyou,”Isay,andhearthesoundofahornthroughthe

phonethenlistenassheshouts.

“Putyourcellphonedownbeforeyoukillsomeone,asshole!”
Shakingmyhead,Imutter,“Oneday,someoneisgoingtofollowyouhome.”
“Please,ifsomeoneeverfollowedme,theywouldhavetodealwithEvan.YouandIbothknow

theywouldrunforthehillsthesecondtheysawhim.

“True.” I grin at my feet as I walk across the marble entryway toward the door, knowing she’s

right.Evanwouldlosehismindifsomeoneevenlookedatherinawayhedidn’tlike,especiallynow
thatshe’spregnant.

“Butseriously,ischeckingFacebooksodamnimportantthatyoucan’twaituntilyougethome?”

shegrumbles.

“Iwouldn’tknow.AfterMySpacewentupinsmoke,Igaveuponsocialmedia.”Ismile,hearing

her laugh. “Hold on a sec. Let me see who’s here.” I pull my cell from my ear and lean up on my
tiptoestolookthroughthepeephole.“Fuckme.”IclosemyeyeswhenIseenoneotherthantheshe-
bitch-from-hellstandingonthefrontporch.

“Who’sthere?”Juneasks,andIgritmyteeth.
“Takeawildguess.”
“Pleasetellmethatbitchisnotatyourhouse.”
“Iwon’ttellyouthen.”Isigh,wonderingifIshouldjustignoreherandpraythatshegoesaway.

“Don’tanswerit.I’llbethereinlessthantwo.”
“Icanhearyouinthere,”Islacalls,andIleanmyheadback.
“God,evenhervoiceisannoying,”Junegripes,andIgroanasIslapoundsonthedoor.
“Ijustwanttotalk,”sheyells,andmyhandballsintoafistatmyside.
“DoyouwantmetocallDillon?”Junequestionssoftly,andIthinkaboutitforasecond,butthe

idea of him dealing with her doesn’t sit well with me… or the ugly green monster that lives in my
head.

“No.”
“Well,I’mpullingdownthedrivenow.”
“Whatdoessheevenwant?”Iwhisper,moretomyselfthanmycousin.
“Whoknows,butyou’renotdealingwithheralone,”shemuttersasIhearthesoundofhercar

getting closer then the crunch of gravel, and a moment later, I hear her car door slam. “Is there
somethingIcanhelpyouwith?”sheasksloudenoughformetohearthroughthedoor.Hangingup
mycellphone,Iturntheknobandswingthedooropen.

“Ijustwanttotalk,”Islasayssoftly,turningtofaceme,lookingremorseful.
“Idon’tthinkwehaveanythingtotalkabout.”Icrossmyarmsovermychestasachillfromthe

windslidesovermyskin.

“I know you hate me.” Snorting, I shake my head as June steps up onto the porch and comes to

standnexttome,restingherhandsonherverypregnant,veryroundstomach.“DillonandI—”

“ThereisnoDillonandyou,”Juneputsin.Isla’sattentionslidestoher,andIseetheicylookin

hereyesbeforeshehidesitbehindalookofsadness.

“Myfamilyhasbeenhisonlyfamilysincehisparentspassedaway.Idon’twantyourhateforme

totakehimawayfrommyparents.”

“Iwouldneverstophimfromhavingarelationshipwithanyone.He’shisownperson.Hecando

whathelikes.”

“Thenwhyhasn’thereturnedanyofourcalls?Whywouldn’theseemewhenIwentbytheoffice

today?”

Shrugging, I answer silently while wondering if she went to the office before or after he came

home,andwhyhedidn’ttellmethatshewasintown,evenifhedidn’tmeetwithher.Really,Ihaven’t
thoughtmuchaboutheroverthelastfewweeks,butseeingherstandinginfrontofmenow,Iwonder
ifshehatesmeenoughtotryandhurtme.

“Wherewereyouthreedaysago?”Iask,andshefrowns,makingawrinklepopoutbetweenher

perfectlypluckedbrows.

“What?”
“Wherewereyouthreedaysago?”Irepeat,studyingher.
“Idon’tknow,home.”Sheshrugs,smoothingherhandsdownherwaistandhips.
“Soyouweren’tinTennessee?”Juneasks,seeingwhatI’mgettingatwithmyquestions.
“No,Ijustflewinthismorning.Why?”
“Justcurious,”Imutter,wavingmyhandout,andhereyesmovetoitandnarrow.
“Isthatyourweddingring?”MyeyesdroptothebandonmyfingerandIballmyhandintoafist

tokeepiton,asifherseeingitwillcauseittodisappear.“Hedidn’tgiveyouhismom’sring?”she
whispers,andeventhoughIknowshe’snottalkingtomeandit’sjustanobservation,herwordsarea
directshottomygutandIfeelmylegsgetweak.

“Areyoudone?”Juneasks,andherheadturnstowardmycousin.
“I—”

“You’redone,”Junestates,notgivingherachancetofinishherreplyasshecrowdsmebackinto

thehousebehindher.

“Please talk to him,” Isla cries, looking at me as June starts to close the door. “My mom is

worriedabouthim.Shejustwantstomakesurehe’sokay.”

“I’lltellhimtocallher,”IagreequietlyasJuneshutsthedoorinherstunnedface.
“God,Ihateher,”Junehisses,gettinguponhertiptoestolookthroughthepeephole.
“Metoo.”Droppingmyeyestomyhand,Ilookatmyweddingring.Shakingmyhead,Iclosemy

eyes.

“Youokay?”
“No.” I sigh, feeling her hand on my shoulder. “I need a drink,” I murmur as I head for the

kitchen.

“Canyoudrinkrightnow?”
“Unfortunately,no.”IreallywishIcouldhaveaglassofwine,butIcan’t.
“Doyouwanttotalkaboutwhatyou’rethinking?”sheasks,takingaseatononeofthestoolsat

theislandinthemiddleofthekitchen.

Grabbingabottleofwaterfromthefridge,Ipassittoher,pickupmineIleftearlier,andtakea

gulpbeforedroppingmyeyestothemarblewhispering,“Hehashismom’sweddingring.”

Lookingupatmycousin,Iwonderwhatitmeansthathedidn’tgiveittome.IknowIshouldn’tbe

thinkingit,butIcan’tunderstandwhyI’mwearingabandfromaweddingchapel,whilehehashis
mom’sweddingring.AringIknowmeanssomethingtohim.AringIdidn’tknowaboutuntilnow.A
ringhehastalkedtotheshe-bitchabout,eventhoughheobviouslydidn’tgiveittohereither.

“Youhavehim.Don’tletthatcrazybitchgettoyouorgetintoyourhead.”
“I’mnot,”Ilieshakily.Idon’tknowwhythisisbotheringmesomuch,butitfeelslikeIjustgotto

thetopoftherollercoasterandfoundouttherearenomoretracksformyridedown.

“Getthatlookoffyourfacerightnow,”shesnaps,andmyeyesfocusonhers.“Dillonisinlove

withyou.”Shepointsatme.“Youdon’tknowhisreasoningfornotgivingyouhismom’sring,orif
there is even a ring to be given. For all you know, he could have lost it years ago, or he could be
waitinguntiltherightmomenttoslideitonyourfinger.”HereyessoftenandIholdmybreath.“In
theend,it’sjustapieceofmetalthatmeansnothing.Marriageisn’tbasedonthesizeoftherockon
yourfinger.It’sbasedonwhatyoufeelforthepersonyouaresharingyourlifewith.”

Feeling properly scolded, I set my water bottle down and rub my forehead. She’s right. One

minutewithIslahasmequestioningeverythinganddoubtingDillon’sfeelingsforme.“I’manidiot.”

“You are not an idiot. You’re in love. Love makes you feel vulnerable and unsure, and it also

makesyoudoubtandquestioneverything.It’snormaltofeellikeyoufeelrightnow.”Shewavesme
offasItakeaseatnexttoher.

“Idon’tknowwhatIwouldhavedoneifyouweren’there,”Imutter,andshegrins,bumpingmy

shoulder.

“Myguessisyouwouldhaveprobablyrunaway.”
“Probably.”Ilaugh,knowingshe’sright.Idon’tlikequestioninghisfeelingsforme,andIdon’t

likethefeelingofjealousyandenvyIgeteverytimeIthinkabouthisrelationshipwithIsla,orthe
factsheprobablyknowsmoreabouthimthanIdo.

“You,mybeautifulcousin,havealottolearnaboutloveandrelationships.Dillonisthefirstguy

you’veeverbeenseriousabout.Thisisallnewtoyouand—”

“I’vedated,”Icutheroff,andsheraisesabrow.“Okay,fine,I’veskimmedthroughaselectionof

men.”Isigh,andshelaughs.

“Thepointisyouwillfigureitallout.Justdon’toverthinkthings,andalwaystalktohimifyou

have doubts about anything.” She nudges my shoulder then takes a sip of water before moving her
eyesovermyface,lettingthemlingeronthebruiseatmytemple.“Howareyoufeeling?”

“Thankfully,better.IgobacktoworkMonday,andgetmystitchesoutintendays,”IreplyasI

absentlyrubmyfingersoverthesideofmyheadwheremystitchesare.

“Havethepolicesaidiftheycaughtthepersonorgottenanyleads?”
“Theystilldon’tknow.Noonesawalicenseplate,onlythemakeofthecar.Evenwiththestory

beinginthenewsthelastfewdays,theystillhaven’tgottenanything.”

“It’s scary that something like that can happen in the middle of the day and no one knows

anything.”

“I know. I just…” I pause, taking a breath. “I don’t even want to think about it any more. Every

timeIthinkaboutit,Istarttopanic,”Iadmit,whichissomethingIhaven’ttoldanyoneuntilnow,but
it’s true. There is a constant fear in my stomach. Even today, when I went to the hospital with my
mom,Iwasscaredtodeathabouthavingtowalkthroughtheparkinglot.

“Itmayhavejustbeenafreakaccident.”
“Maybe,”Iagree,butsomethinginmyguttellsmeitwasintentional,andeventhoughDillonsaid

thepersonmayhavebeenafterhimandnotme,themoreIthinkaboutit,theharderI’mfindingitto
believe. He was at the office. There is no way they could have known he would be standing in the
door,talkingtoapatientwhenIwalkedoutoftherestaurant,orthathewouldhavecomeacrossto
meetme.Andnotonlythat,butiftheywereafterhim,theycouldhaveaimedforhimwhenhejogged
acrossthestreettowardme.Theyhadaclearshotofhimthen,ifhewaswhotheywantedtohurt.

“EarthtoAshlyn.”Shesnapsherfingersinfrontofmyface,andIblink.
“Sorry,Ispaced.”
“It’sfine.”Shestudiesmethoughtfullyforamomentthensmiles.“Inbetternews,Iwastalkingto

Julyyesterday,andweweregoingoverideasforyourbachelorettepartynextSaturday.Therewerea
fewthingsIwantedtorunbyyou.”

Frowningather,Ishakemyhead.“I’mnothavingabachelorettepartynextSaturday,”Ideny,and

hersmileturnsintoagrin.

“Youdefinitelyarehavingaparty.Everyoneiscoming.Eventhemomsaregoingtocomeoutfor

adrinkortwo.”

“Oh,Lord,”Imurmur,seeingthatshe’sserious.“Dillonisnotgoingtobehappyaboutthis.”
“WhatamInotgoingtobehappyabout?”Dillonasks,startlingme,andIsqueak,turningonmy

stoolandcomingface-to-facewithhim.Ididn’tevenhearthegaragedooropenlikeInormallydo
whenhecomeshome.

“Ithoughtyousaidyouwouldbehomeatfive.”HiseyesnarrowthenmovetoJune,andhelifts

hischininasilenthellobeforecrossinghisarmsoverhischestandturninghiseyesbacktome.

“WhatisitthatI’mnotgoingtobehappyabout?”herepeats,andIprayJunecanonceagainknow

whatI’mthinkingwithoutmehavingtosayaword.

“We’rethrowingAshabacheloretteparty.”Shesmiles.
Apparentlynot.
“Seriously, did you have to just come out and say it like that?” I snip, glaring at her, and she

shrugsatmethensmilesbrighteratDillon.

“Don’t worry. We’re not going to have strippers. April mentioned getting strippers, and Evan

overheardthenproceededtolosehismind.”Sherollshereyes,andDillon’sjawbeginstotwitch.

“Oh,God,”Iwhisper,andshelooksatme.

“Iknow.ThenEvantoldWes,andWesfreakedonJuly.”Sheshakesherhead.“Ididn’treallywant

strippersthereanyway.Imean,guyswithnicebodiesarefuntolookat,butIhavemyownhotguy
and I really don’t like polyester-covered sausage flung in my face, and I can’t imagine you would
wanttohaveading-a-linginyourfaceeither,”shemutters.Ishakemyhead,andmyeyeswidenat
herinasilentpleaforhertoshutupbeforeshecausesDillontohaveastroke.“Anyway,theplanisto
havedinnerwitheveryonebeforeasacongratulationsdinner,andthengotomyhouse,change,and
meetthepartybus.”

“Um…”Imumble,takingachancetolookatDillonoutofthecornerofmyeyeandseehisjawis

stilltickingaway.

“Also,Aprilmentionedthatmaybeweshouldjustrentahotelroomdowntownandmakeanight

ofit.”

“I…”IlookfromhertoDillonandcantellheisbarelykeepingittogether.
“Dinnersoundsgood,butIdon’tthinkIwanttostayoutovernight.”Andthat’sthetruth.Ihaven’t

spentanightawayfromDillonsinceVegas,andIdon’treallywanttostartnow.

“Ifigured.”ShesmilesthenlooksbetweenDillonandmeasshehopsoffherstool,causingher

bellytobounce.“Ishouldgo.Evanwillbehomesoon,andItoldhimIwouldmakedinnertonight.”

As she wraps her arms around me in a tight hug, I whisper, “I’m so going to get you back for

this.”

“You’llbefine.”Shegrinsatme,leaningback.
“Uh huh.” I roll my eyes, listening to her laugh as she lets me go before walking across the

kitchentoDillon,wholeansdowntokisshercheekandgrumbleagoodbye.

“I’llcallandletyouknowwhattimeIgetareservationfor.”
“Sure,”Iagree,slidingoffmystooltofollowhertothedoor.
“Don’t worry. I can see myself out.” She winks over her shoulder, and I narrow my eyes. She

knows Dillon is pissed and thinks it’s funny. “Love you,” she singsongs, leaving the kitchen, and a
fewsecondslater,Ihearthefrontdoorshut.Keepingmyeyesoffmyman,who’spissed-offenergyis
pulsing through the room, I move to the fridge, open it, close it, and then move to one of the
cupboards, doing the same. I’m hoping there is portal hidden somewhere that will teleport me into
anotherdimension,whereDillonisthekindofguywhowouldbeokaywithmehavingabachelorette
party.

“How are you feeling?” The rough edge of his voice slides over my skin, making me shiver.

Turningmyhead,myeyesconnectwithhisandmycorepulses.

“Fine,” I whisper, and he nods then takes off his suit jacket as he starts toward me. Instinctively

takingastepbackfromthepredatorylookinhiseyes,Ibumpintothecounterthenlookleft,debating
ifIshouldrun.

“I wouldn’t do that if I were you.” My head swings back toward him, and I realize it’s too late.

He’stoocloseformetorunnow.

“Wh-whatareyoudoing?”Istutterout,feelingmynippleshardenandthespacebetweenmylegs

floodwithheatashishandsrestagainstmyhipsandslideupundermyshirtalongmysides.

“I’mgoingtofuckyou.”Henipsmyneckbeforemyshirtisrippedovermyheadandtossedto

theflooratourfeet.“I’mgoingtoremindmyselfthatyouaremine.”Hishandsspanmywaistthen
slidesoftlydown,pushingmyshortsandpantiesoffmyhips,andtheyfalltothefloor.“Andthatno
oneelsewillevergettotouchyou.”Grabbingontohisshoulders,Istarttopantasheliftsmetothe
topoftheislandandpushesmylegsroughlyapartwithhishandsonmyknees.“Takeoffyourbra,”
hecommands,thengroansashisfingersslidebetweenmyspreadlegsandovermyclit.

“Sofuckingwetforme.Doesmakingmecrazyjealousturnyouon?”heasks,pinchingmyclit.

My head shakes side-to-side as my bra slides from my shoulders. “I think it does. You’re drenched
andI’vebarelytouchedyou.”Hisfingersthatwerebetweenmylegsraise,andIwatchhimslidethem
intohismouthandclosehiseyes.“Layback,heelstothecounter,andspreadyourlegs.”

“Dil—”Hisnamegetslodgedinmythroatashepresseshishandagainstmychestandforcesme

backagainstthecoldmarble.

“Nowspreadyourlegs,”hegrowls.Moaning,mylegsfallapartandmyeyessnapclosedashis

fingers begin to toy with me. “You’re so perfect,” he praises, palming my breast while his fingers
fuckintome,leavingmebreathlessandmybodybeggingforhim.Forcingmyeyesopenwhenhe
stops,Iwatchhimfreehimselffromhisslacksthentakeadeepbreathashepullsmyasstotheedge
offthecounterandlineshimselfupwithmyentrance.“Whodoyoubelongto?”

“You,”Ibreathe,wrappingmylegsaroundhiswaist,usingmyheelstopullhimclosertowhereI

needhim.

“Only me.” He thrusts forward hard, and my mind screams with pleasure as his hands wrap

aroundmyhipstokeepmeinplace.“You’remine.”

“Yes,”Icryout,archingmyback,feelingheatspreadfrommycorethroughoutmyentirebody.
Slidingonehandupmystomachthenbetweenmybreasts,hewrapsitaroundthebackofmyneck

and lifts me forward, gently, until we are sharing the same breath. Leaning up, I nip his bottom lip
thenwhimperwhenhetakesmymouthlikeheownsit,thrustinghistongueagainstmineinsyncwith
eachhardblowashepoundsintomeruthlessly.“Fuck,”hesnarlsdownmythroatwhileslamming
intomeoverandover,sendingmeclosertotheedge.Overheating,everyinchofmestartstosing
withpleasureandmycorebeginstoclampdownaroundhim.

“I’msoclose,”Ibreatheintohismouth,thenwrapmyarmsaroundhisback,pullmymouthfrom

his, and bite down on his shoulder as my body ignites and fireworks explode behind my closed
eyelids.

“Again.”
“Dillon,”Iwhimper,lockingmylegstighteraroundhishipsasmyorgasmstartstocomebackto

life.

“Thistime,youwaitforme,”hegroansasmynailsdigintohisskinandmycoretightens.
“Idon’t…”Thewordsendashethrustshard,makingmybreathcatch.
“Youwillwaitforme.”Hethrustshardagainandagain,andmybodybeginstoshakeasItighten

my limbs around him and fight back my release. “God, fucking dammit,” he roars, then growls,
“Come.”Andjustlikethat,Iletgoandflyovertheedge,clingingtohimwitheverysingleinchofme
as I do. “You will always be mine,” he whispers, and my eyes fill with tears. Isla may know more
abouthimthanIdo,butshewillneverhavethis.Shewillneverknowwhatitfeelsliketohaveallof
him.

Chapter9

Ashlyn

ITTING

ACROSS

FROM

Dillon,Iusemychopstickstopickupapieceofsushithendipitinmywasabi

andsoysaucemixturebeforeshovingthewholethingintomymouth,moaninginhappinessasthe
tasteexplodesonmytongue.

“Ican’tbelieveofalltheplacesyoucouldhavepicked,thisistheplaceyouchose.”Heshakeshis

head,lookingaround,andIfollowhiseyesaroundtherestaurant.I’mnotsurprisedbyhisreaction.
The place isn’t all that great to look at, but they have an all-you-can-eat sushi bar that makes the
cheesydécorandquestionableenvironmentworththeriskoffoodpoisoning.

“Ilovethisplace.”Ishrug,pickingupanotherpieceofsushi,dunkingitinmyperfectedmixture.
“Icouldhavetakenyoutoanactualsushirestaurantinsteadofaall-you-can-eatChinesebuffet.”
“Andwhat?PayfifteendollarsforaCaliforniaroll,Ithinknot.”Smiling,heshakeshisheadasI

shoveanotherpieceofsushiintomymouth.

“Nut.”Hisfacesoftens,andIfeelminedothesamethenshiftinmyseatandlowermyvoice.
“Islacamebythehousethisafternoon.”
Sittingforward,hiseyesnarrow,andherumbles,“Whydidn’tyoutellme?”soundingpissed,and

Ifeelmytempersparkduetohisreaction.

“Why didn’t you tell me?” I challenge him back immediately. “She told me she stopped by the

officebutyouwouldn’tseeher,soIknowyouknewshewasintown.”Iraiseabrow,andhiseyes
narrowfurther.

“Whatdidshesaytoyou?”
“Nothing, she just wants you to call her mom. She said you haven’t been returning any of their

calls.Whyaren’tyoutalkingtothem?”Iquestion,watchinghimclosely,surprisedbyhowangryhe
looks.

“You—”Iknowwhathe’sgoingtosaybeforehespeaks,andIpointmychopsticksathim.
“Ifyoutellmeit’snotsomethingIneedtoworryabout,Iwillstabyouwiththese,”Icuthimoff,

snappingmychopsticksathim,andhegrinsthenrunshishandthroughhishair.

“Theywerenothappyaboutmemarryingyou.”
“So,” I shrug. “My family wasn’t happy either but they are slowly coming to terms with it. You

havetoadmittheyhaveareasontobeupset.Youdatedtheirdaughterandweresupposedtomarry
her. Instead, you married me in Vegas, and I doubt they even knew my name, any parent would be
worried,”Imutter,pickingupanotherpieceofsushi.

“Isla’s gay. I was never going to fucking marry her,” he growls and I blink, staring at him in

disbeliefwithapieceofsushifrozenaninchfrommymouth.

“Pardon?”Ifinallygetout,notsureifIwanttolaughorscreamattheridiculousnessofthewords

hejustutteredinonesentence.

“She’s gay,” he repeats, and I point my chopsticks at him, flinging the piece of sushi across the

roomasIdo,notevencheckingtoseeifithitanyone.

“She is not,” I hiss, jabbing the wooden sticks in his direction then snap, “Dammit, give them

back,”whenhesnatchesthemfromme.

“Sheis,butshedidnotwanttohurtherfamilyorriskanyonefindingoutabouthersexuality,so

sheaskedmetohelpherwhenpeoplestartedtogetsuspicious.”

“Youcannothonestlyexpectmetobelievethisgarbage,”Imutter,lookingintohiseyes.
“It’sthetruth.
“Shetoldyoushewasalesbian?”Iask,lookingaroundtoseeifanyoneislistening.
“Yes.”Henods,andIshakemyhead.
“Wow.”Irubmyforehead,reallywishingIcouldhaveadrink.“Sowhatwasyourplanwhenyou

put a ring on her finger?” I grit my teeth, feeling anger swell inside my chest at the idea of them
together.

“Ididn’tputaringonherfinger.”Hisfrowndeepensashisjawclenchestight.
“I’msure.Letmeguess,sheproposedtoherself?”Irollmyeyesandhisnarrow.
“Ididn’tknowwhatshehadplanned.Wewereatherparents’housefordinnerandsheannounced

ourengagementtothem,shealreadyhadtheringonherhand.”

“Seriously?”
“I didn’t want to hurt her parents, and I knew I could put an end to all of it as soon as I moved

here.”

“Youdidn’tendthingswithherwhenyougothere,”Ipointout,andhisjawclenchestighter.
“Sheneededmoretime.”
“Ibet.”Inodinagreement,havingnodoubtthatsheneededmoretimetotryandconvincehim

that she was just confused, and not actually a lesbian. More time to make him see that they were
perfecttogetherandshouldreallytrytomakeitwork.“I’minlovewithyou.”Hereachesoverand
attemptstotakemyhand,butIpullbackbeforehecangraspit.

Hiseyesfillwithdistress,andhisnostrilsflareashegrowlslow,“Donotfuckingpullawayfrom

me.”

“You…”Iclosemyeyes,tryingtogetmythoughtsinorder,butmymindisacompletemess.“I

don’tevenknowwhattosaytoyourightnow.”

“Islaandherparentsdonotfactorintoourlife.”
“But they do.” For the rest of our lives, he is going to be connected to that conniving bitch

throughherparentswhotookhiminafterhelosthismomanddad.“Iwanttogohome,”Isayquietly,
pushingmystillfullplateawayfrommewhilestanding.Withoutlookingbackatthetableorhim,I
headtowardthefrontoftherestaurantthenpushthroughthedoorthatleadstooutsideandtakeina
huge gulp of cool night air, while wrapping my arms around my middle. This is crazy, absolutely
crazy.I’vethoughtaboutwhathemaybewantingtotellmeabouthimandIsla’srelationship,butnot
oncedidIeverthinkhewouldtellmesheisalesbian.

Feelinghimcomeupbehindme,Itensewhenhishandrestsagainstthesmallofmyback.Iwant

togotomyhouseandcrawlintomyownbed,butIknowwithhimthatoptionisn’tavailable.“Come
on,”hemutters,leadingmetowardhiscarwherehehelpsmeinbeforeshuttingthedoor.Buckling
up,Iwatchhimwalkaroundtothedriver ’ssidethenwatchhimlowerhiseyestohisfeet,shakinghis
headbeforeopeningthedoorandslidinginbehindthewheel.Startingupthecar,withoutaword,he
pullsoutoftheparkinglotandheadstowardhomewhileIstareabsentlyoutthewindow.

“Whatthefuckisgoingon?”Hisvoicepullsmefrommyheadafewminuteslater,andInoticea

mass of news trucks and people gathered along the side of the road near the entrance to one of the
parksIjogthroughonoccasion.

Slowing, he merges into a line of cars that are all driving about five miles an hour. “I wonder

what happened?” I mutter as a police officer directs the line of cars were in to move into the on
comingtrafficlane,pastthegroupofnewstrucks.

“Maybe an accident,” he murmurs back, and I turn to look over my shoulder to see if I can see

anything.Therearenocarsthathavebeeninacollision,butjustinsidetheparklargefloodlightsare
lituparoundabluetarpthatisangledtowardtheroad,withavanthatismarkedCSIparkedofftothe
sidewiththesidedooropenwide.

“Idon’tthinkitwasanaccident.”Iturntofaceforwardasachillcreepsdownmyspine,thenfeel

hishandcovermineonmylap.“Therewasacrimescenevanandalotofpolice,”Isayquietlywhile
helacesourfingerstogether.

“Thestorywillbeonthenews.”HegivesmyhandasqueezeandInod,restingmyhandoverour

locked fingers, hearing him inhale at my touch. “You know I love you, right?” he asks after a few
quietminutes,andmyeyesslideclosed.

“Iknow.”
“Don’teverdoubtthatyouarethemostimportantthingtome.”Ihearthesincerityinhistoneand

knowdeepinmygutthathe’sspeakingtruthfully,butthatstilldoesn’tputmymindatease.

“Sheplayedyou,”Istate,gainingnoresponse.Hedoesn’tseeitordoesn’twantto,andthereis

obviously nothing I can say to make him. “I know you don’t think so, but it’s true,” I mutter as he
turnsontoourstreet,thenturnsagaindownthedrive.AswegetclosertothehouseInoticeablack
car parked in front near the fountain and I sit up, leaning closer to the windshield. “Whose car is
that?”

“Don’tknow.”Hepressesthebuttonforthegarageaswedrivebythecar,andIseethatit’sempty.
“Therewasnooneinsideofit,”Ipointout,feelinguneaserunthroughmeasheputsthecarin

parkandshutsitoffinsidethegarage.

“Stayhere.”
“Stayhere?I’mnotgoingtostayhere!”Iyellathimasopenshisdoor.“Therecouldbeakillerin

thehouse,callthepolice.”Itrytograbhim,butheisalreadyoutofthecar.“Dillon!”Ishout,andhe
bendsatthewaisttolookatme.

“Do you really think a killer would park out front of the house in plain sight?” Okay, that just

sounded stupid, but I still don’t want him to go into the house alone. For all I know, Isla could be
inside.

“I’mcomingwithyou.”Iunhookmybeltandhiseyesnarrowonmine.
“No,youaregoingtostayputuntilIcomebacktogetyou.”
“Haveyoulostyourmind?I’mnotgoingtoletyoufaceapossiblekillerbyyourself,”Igrowl,

andheopenshismouthtosaysomething,butadeepvoiceasks,

“Who’s a killer?” Screaming at the top of my lungs, a large guy with shaggy hair and a beard

walksupbehindDillon,wrappinghisarmaroundhisshoulder.

“Jesus,Parker,”Dillongrowls,andIlookattheguystandingnexttoDillonandfeelmystomach

twistwhenIrealizetheguyisnotanaxmurder,butDillon’sbrother,Parker.“Whatthefuckareyou
doinghere,man?”Dillonasks,andhisbodyturnstowardhisbrother.Openingthedoor,Igetoutof
thecarandwatchthemovertheroof,alittletakenbackbyhowmuchtheylookalike.

“DidyoureallythinkyoucouldtellmeyougotmarriedandIwouldn’tmaketimetocomeout

andmeetyourwife?”Parkerasks,tuggingDillonintoahugthatrockshimbackandforthroughly.

“WhereareCaraandthekids?”Dillonaskshimoncehepullsaway.
“Inside,wanderingaroundthemonstrosityyoucallahouse,”hemuttersdryly,andIgigglethen

freezeastwosetsofblueeyesturntowardme.

“Baby, meet Parker. Parker, my wife, Ashlyn,” Dillon says, and his face softens as he speaks,

makingbutterfliestakeflightinmystomach.

“Sheispretty.”ParkersmilesatmeovertheroofandIsmileback.
“Iknowshe’spretty,”Dillongrumblesthenpalmsthesideofhishead.“Stopstaringather.”
“Icant.”Hegrins,thenheadsaroundthebackofthecartowardme.Assoonashe’sstandingin

front of me, his arms wrap around me and he forces me into his chest so tight that I cant breathe.
“NicetomeetyouAshlyn.”

“You too.” My words come out muffled against his shirt and I pat his back, trying to make him

understandthathe’scutoffmysupplyofoxygen.

“She can’t breathe, idiot,” Dillon grumbles, tugging me from his brother and tucking me under

hisarm.ItakeagulpofairasParker ’seyesjumpbetweenthetwoofuswithathoughtfullookonhis
face.

“There you are,” a woman says, and I look behind me at the door that leads into the house and

watch an African American woman with rich dark skin, and short cropped hair that accentuates her
almond shaped eyes, high cheekbones, and full lips step down the two steps into the garage. Even
though she’s dressed casual, in a pair of white Converse, dark jeans, and a plain gray V-neck, she
screamselegance.

“Cara.”Dillonletsmego,andherfacelightsupashemovestowardherandpullsherintoahug.
“I told your brother that we should call to make sure you would be home, but he insisted we

surpriseyou,”shemurmurs,hugginghimback.

“Youneverhavetocall,”Dillonsayssoftly,lettinghergoasshesmilesstudyinghim,thenleans

uptouchinghischeek.

“Youcutyourhair.”
“Idid.”Hegrins,wrappinghishandaroundmineandpullingmebacktohisside.
“Maybeyoucouldhaveatalkwiththatone,”shenodstowardParker,“aboutchoppinghisoff.”
“Never gonna happen, baby,” Parker says, dropping his arm around her shoulder, and she rolls

hereyesskywardthenmovesthemtomeforabriefsecondbeforegoingbacktoDillon.

“Isthisyourwife?”sheaskshimquietly,andIdon’tseehisreaction,Ijustwatchherfacesoften

beforeshelooksatmeoncemore.

“Cara this is Ashlyn, Ashlyn this is Cara, Parkers wife,” Dillon introduces us as she steps away

fromParker.

“Nicetofinallymeetyou.”Istickoutmyhandandsheshakesherhead,wrappingherslimarms

aroundme.

“I’veheardsomuchaboutyou,I’msohappytofinallymeetyou.”Sheleansbackenoughtosee

myfaceandshakesherheadagainbeforehuggingmeoncemore,thistimetighter.

“Dad,UncleDillonhaslikefivebathrooms!”isshoutedasecondlater,andshepullsawayjustin

time for me to watch two adorable little boys in matching outfits bound down the steps into the
garage.

“Didyouuseallofthem?”Dillonasks,andtheboyseachlookathim,grinningwidely.“Uncle

Dillon!” they shout, launching themselves at him. Stepping back, I smile as he scoops up both boys
intohisarmsandswingsthemaround.I’veseenDillonnumeroustimeswithmyniece,Hope,butnow
it’sdifferent.Icanactuallypicturehimholdingalittleboywholookslikehimandmeinmyhead.
Myheartdoesalittleflipinsidemychestattheideaandmybreathcatcheswhenhiseyesmeetmine
andsoften,likeheknowswhatI’mthinking.

“Jordan,”heliftshisrightarmholdingonelittleboy,“Kenyon,”heliftshisleftholdingtheother,

“IwantyoutomeetyourauntAshlyn.”

“Hi,”theychimeinunison,studyingmewithcuriouslooksontheirfaces.
“It’snicetofinallymeetyouboth,youruncletalksaboutyouguysallthetime,”Isay,wondering

howlongitwilltakebeforeIcantellthemapart,sincetheylookidenticalandaredressedexactlythe
same.

“Youdo?”Jordanasks,andDillonturnshiseyestohimandsmiles.
“OfcourseItalkabouttwoofmyfavoriteguys.”
“Butyouhaven’tcometovisitusinforever.”HepoutsandDillon’ssmilefadesaway.
“Icametovisityouguysthreemonthsago.”
“Yeah, and that was forever ago,” Kenyon says, making me smile. I’m sure that at five, three

monthsdoesseemlikeforever.

“Well,you’reherenow.”
“Yeah, and we brought cupcakes from Mimi’s,” Kenyon says as Parker takes him from Dillon,

ticklinghim.

“Didyoureally?”DillonasksandJordannods.
“Yeah,wegotyourfavoritestrawberryones,”hesaysproudlyandDillonsmiles,liftinghimhigh

abovehishead.

“Toobadit’syourbedtime,nowIgettoeatallofthem.”
“It’snotmybedtime,”Jordanshouts,laughingasDillondropshimtohisfeetandturnstolookat

Cara.

“Howmanycupcakesdidyoubring?”
“Adozen.”Shesmiles.
“Sojustenoughforme.”Hegrins,lookingbetweentheboys.
“Notifweeatthemallfirst,”Kenyonyells,wigglinghimselffreefromhisfatherthentugginghis

brotheralongwithhim,andtheyrunbackintothehouse.

“I should leave them with you tonight after they’ve eaten those cupcakes,” Cara mutters, and

Dillonsmiles.

“Howlongareyouguysstayingfor?”heasks,andParkeranswers.
“We’rehereuntilnextweek.Theboysareonfallbreak,sowefigureditwastheperfecttimefora

visit.”

“SoyouguyswillbehereSaturday?”IquestionandCaranods.
“Yes, but if you have plans or need us to find a hotel, that’s totally okay with us. I know us

showingupisunexpected.”

“No, that’s not necessary. You guys are welcome here anytime.” I wave her off. “Really, your

timing is perfect. My family is throwing us a kind of after-the-fact reception type dinner Saturday,
thenmycousinsaretakingmeoutforabachelorettepartyafterwards,inNashville.”

“I’min.”Caragrins,andParkerfrownsather.
“Youarenotin.”
“Ohyes,I’mtotallyin.”Shesmiles.“It’sbeenfartoolongsinceI’vebeenout,andI’vealways

wantedtoexperienceNashville’snightlife.”

“Perfect.”Ismileatherandshewigglesherbrows,leaningcloser.
“Aretheregoingtobemaledancersatyourparty?”
“No!”Dillonbarks,andParker ’sfrownturnsintonarrowedeyesonhiswife.
“No,nostrippers.”Ismile.“I’mactuallynotsurewhatmycousinshaveplanedbutitwillbefun,

andtherewillbeapartybussowecandrink.”

“Drinkingandagirlsnightoutworksforme.”ShegrinsasParkergrumbles,
“Idon’tlikeyourwifeanymore,”toDillon,makingmelaugh.
Wrapping her arm around mine Cara starts to lead me inside, mumbling, “Ignore him, he’s

crazy.”

“Dillonisthesameway,”Imumbleback,listeningtoherlaughasweheadtowardthesoundof

the boys and find them in the kitchen sitting on top of the island, each with a cupcake and icing
coveredfaces.

“After you eat those it’s time to shower then bed,” Cara says in a motherly tone, and both boys

poutandlookattheirdadanduncle.

“Dowereallyhavetogotobed,wejustgothere.”
“Sorryboys.”ParkershrugsasDillonwalkstowheretheyaresittingandpicksupacupcakeout

theboxonthecounterandtakesahugebite.Goingtothefridge,Igrabthegallonofmilkandtakeit
overtothemthenheadacrossthekitchenforglasses.

“UncleDillon,isn’tityourhouseandyourrules?”IthinkJordanasks,butIcouldbewrong,it

couldbeKenyon.

“Yep,myhouse,myrules.Andthenumberoneruleislisteningtoyourmomanddad.”
“Thatwillbeachange,”CaramuttersasParkerpullsherintohisside,kissinghertemple.
“Bite.”Dilloninstructs,holdinghishalfeatencupcakeouttowardmeasIsettheglassesdownon

theisland.Leaningforward,IplacemyhandonthebackofhisandtakeasmuchcupcakeasIcaninto
mymouth,listeningtohimlaughasIclosemyeyes,chew,andswallowthedeliciouscake.

“ItseemsI’vebeenmissingoutmywholelife,”Isay,openingmyeyes.Hegrinsdownatmethen

leansforward,kissingmesoftly.

“Gross!”theboysshout,makingmegiggle.
Steppingawayfromhim,Ipourmilkfortheboysthenleanagainstthecounterandwatchthem

talkanimatedlywithDillonaboutwhattheyhavebeenuptoforthelastcoupleofmonths,andwhat
theywanttododuringtheirvisit.Theyaresoadorableandsofullofenergy;Iforgothowdifferent
littleboysandlittlegirlsare.

“O

KAY

BOYS

TIME

to shower then bed,” Cara instructs a few minutes later while grabbing a paper

towel,andtheyeachturntopoutather.

“Do we really have to, Mom?” Jordan asks, pulling his jaw from her grasp as she attempts to

cleanoffthecakeandicingthathasbeensmearedacrosshisface.

“Youreallyhaveto,honey,”shemurmurs,wipingKenyon’sfacebeforehelpinghimdownoffthe

counter.“Ifyouguyswanttogotothezootomorrow,youneedtogettobed.”

“Oh, all right,” Jordan grumbles, scooting to the edge of the island before jumping down and

runningtowardhisdad,whoKenyonisalreadystandingnextto.

“SaygoodnighttoUncleDillonandAuntAshlyn,”Parkerinstructs,usingthepalmsofhishands

onthetopoftheboys’headstoturnthemtofaceDillonandme.

“Night.”Theygrin,andthenducktheirheadsandrunoff,shoutingandlaughing.
“I’llbeback,”ParkermuttersbeforelookingatCara.“Areyoucoming?”
“Itdepends.”Sheturnstolookatme.“Doyouhavewine?”
“I’vegotwine.”Ismile,feelingDillon’sbodyshakewithsilentlaughteragainstmyback.
“IguessI’mcoming,”shesighs,andIlaughoutloudwatchingthemleave,thenleanintoDillon

andlookupathim.

“Areyouhappy?”

“Myfavoritepeopleareallunderoneroof,”hereplieswithoutanswering,andIpressfartherinto

him.

“Soyou’rehappy?”Isurmise,butinsteadofansweringagain,hekissesmeuntilI’mbreathless.

AKING

SIP

ofsoda,IleanbackagainstDillon,whopulledmedownontohislapassoonaswegot

outside,andlookacrossthegas-litfireatCaraandParker,whoaresittingexactlylikeweare,and
smile.IcouldhearCaraandParkerarguingwiththeboysthewholetimetheywereupstairsandknew
theywouldbothneedadrinkbythetimetheyweredone,soIhadDillonstartuptheoutdoorfireplace
andopenabottleofwine.Assoonastheycamedownstairs,IhandedCaraaglassandParkerabeer
andleadthemtothebackyardtorelax.

“Sotellme,howdidDillonfinallyconvinceyoutogooutwithhim?”Caraasks,andIbitemylip,

tryingtofigureouthowmuchIshouldtellher.ShetoldmeearlierthatDillonmentionedmetoher
andParkerduringtheirlastvisit,butwasconvincedIwasn’tinterestedinhim.

“I didn’t convince her,” he says, running his fingers along my hip under my sweater, and she

frowns.Seeingtheconfusedlookonherface,Iopenmymouthtospeak,butthensnapitshutwhen
Dilloncontinues.“WhenwewenttoVegasforthedentalconvention,Icanceledherroomsoshehad
to share mine. She got pissed at me and got drunk, so I took advantage of her inebriated state and
dragged her to the nearest wedding chapel, where I married her. And the next morning, when she
woke up asking for a divorce, I refused,” he finishes, and I know my eyes are as wide as Cara’s,
whicharestaringbackatme.

“Wow,” she whispers after a moment, and looks at Parker. “And I thought you were crazy.”

Smiling, he tugs her head down toward his and says something I can’t hear, and her face softens
beforehepullsherevenclosertokissher.

Draggingmy eyes fromthem, I lookat Dillon. “What doyou mean youcanceled my room?” I

ask,andhegrins.

“IcanceledmyextraroomthedayItoldyouIneededyoutocomewithme.”
“Youdid?”Ibreathe,andherunshisfingersacrossmystomach.“Wereyouplanningonseducing

me?”

“Yourefusedtoseetherewassomethingbetweenus,soIwasgoingtoconvinceyoutherewas,

onewayoranother.”

“AndyouthinkI’manut.”Irunmyfingersalonghisjaw,watchinghisgrinturnintoasoftsmile.
“Itworkedoutintheend.”
“Yeah,butyoustillcouldhaveaskedmeoutlikeanormalguy,”Imutter,andhewrapsthefront

ofmysweaterinhisfistandforcesmecloser.

“IfIwasnormal,wewouldn’tbetogether.”
“Youdon’tknowthat.”Ifrown,andhepullsmeevencloser.
“Don’tforget,I’veseenwhatyou’vedonetonormalmen,baby.”
“Whatever.”Inarrowmyeyesonhiswhenhechuckles.
“We’regonnagooninandgettobedearly,”Parkersayssuddenly.Iturntolookathim,andthen

hidemysmilewhenCaraducksherhead.

“Sure.Night,guys.”
“Night,”CararepliesquicklyasParkerpropelsherintothehouseinfrontofhim.
“I’m surprised he didn’t just pick her up and throw her over his shoulder like a caveman,” I

mutter,feelingDillonlaugh,andmyeyesdroptohis.“Ilikethem.”

“I’mglad.”
“Iliketheboystoo.They’readorable.”
“Theyare.”Henods,turningmeinhislaptostraddlehim.
“I’mgoingtoseeifHopewantstogotothezoowithustomorrow.”
“Thatwouldbenice,”heagreesabsentlyasoneofhishandsslidesupmybackundermysweater

thenaround,cuppingmybreast.“Areyoureadyforbed?”

Ipressmychestintohiswhilewrappingmyarmsaroundthebackofhisneck.“Yes.”Iniphisear,

and he stands, keeping me against him with his hands under my ass. Twining my legs around his
waist,Ilethimcarrymeintothehouseanduptobed,wherewedonotgotosleepuntilmuchlater.

“T

HAT

’

OUR

POINT

,notyours,”Ihearalittleboy’svoiceshoutthroughmysleep-foggedbrain,andmy

eyesblinkopen.

“No,it’sourpoint,”isrumbledback,andIrollmyheadtotheside,findingDillongoneandthe

bedcold.

Scootingacrossthecoolsheets,IlookattheclockonthebedsidetableandgroanwhenIseeit’s

just five after seven. I want to go back to sleep, but know I won’t be able to now that I’m awake.
Throwingmylegsovertheside,Istand,stretchingmyarmsovermyheadasIwalkacrosstheroom
toward the closet. As soon as I open the door, I blink in confusion. The clothes that were in my
suitcasesarenowscatteredacrossthefloor.Shakingmyhead,IwonderwhyDilloncouldn’tjusttell
metounpack.“ThisisDillonwe’retalkingabout,”ImuttertomyselfasIgoabouthangingstuffup
andshovingsomeintodrawers.

Afterfinallyputtingawaythelastpieceofclothing,IgrabthejeansandshirtIpickedouttowear

andheadforthebathroom.Tyingmyhairintoabunontopofmyhead,Iturnontheshowerandhop
in,makingquickworkofgettingcleanedupsincecleaningtheclosettookoveranhour.Iknowthe
boyswillwanttogettothezooearly,andIstillneedtocallEllietoseeaboutHopecomingalong
withus.

OnceI’mshoweredanddressed,Iputonsomemascaraandbronzerthengrabmycellphoneand

leave the room, feeling my heart melt as I head down the steps. Taking a seat at the bottom of the
stairs, I watch the boys, including Parker and Dillon, play hockey across the marble floors using
broomsandmopsashockeysticksandawaddeduppieceofpaperasapuck.

“We win, you lose!” Jordan yells, giving Kenyon a high-five when he scores a point in the

imaginarygoal.

“I call a rematch.” Dillon smiles, picking up a laughing Jordan under one arm and a giggling

Kenyon under his other, before spinning them in circles, making their laughter echo through the
foyer.

“Morning,”Parkersays,andIsmileashetakesaseatnexttomeonthestep.
“Morning.”Inudgemyshoulderwithhis,listeningtotheboysgiggleandyellforDillontogo

faster.

“Whenareyouguysgoingtotakethediveintoparenthood?”heasks,andIfeelmyfacesoften

whenDillon’ssmilingeyescometome.

“Idon’tknow,”Isayhonestly,staringintoDillon’seyes.Seeinghimwithhisnephewsmakesme

wanttoseehimwithourkids.Ihavenodoubthewillbeanamazingdad.“Maybeafewyears.We’re
stilltryingtogettoknoweachother,andasyouknow,wedidn’tstartoutlikemostmarriedcouples.”

“Doyoulovehim?”heaskssoftly,andIpullmyeyesfromDillonandtheboystolookathim

beforeIanswer.

“Yes.”
“That’sallthatmatters.Therestwillfallintoplacewithtime.”
“Iguessyou’reright.”
“I’malwaysright.”Hegrins,andIrollmyeyes,seeinghe’sjustascockyashisbrother.
“YousoundjustlikeDillon.”
“Dillon sounds just like me. I’m older.” He smiles then looks at the door when the bell rings.

Droppingtheboystotheirfeet,Dillonpullsitopen,andassoonasIseewhoiswaitingthere,Ifeel
mytemperflare.ThenIhearParkermutter,“You’vegottobeshittingme.”I’mstaringatIslawhois
standingonthefrontporch.

“Dillon,please.”Sheholdsupherhandwhenitlookslikehe’sabouttoshutthedoorinherface,

andheshakeshisheadthenlooksoverhisshoulderatus.

Standing,Istartdownthelasttwosteps,butthendropmyeyestomywristwhenParkertakeshold

ofit,stoppingme.“Boys,gohangwithyourmom,”heorders,andtheboyslookathimandfrown,
probablyconfusedbyhischangeindemeanor.“Now,”heurges,andtheytakeofftowardthekitchen.

“Can we please talk?” she pleads, looking up at Dillon, and my stomach fills with all the anger

I’vebeenholdingback.

“Whyareyouhere?”heasksasParkerreleasesmeandgoestostandnexttohim,crossinghis

armsoverhischest.

“I…Itriedtoseeyouyesterday.DidAshleygiveyoumymessage?”sheprompts,andIgritmy

teeth,knowingforafactshe’sveryawaremynameisnotAshley.

“Are you serious? Are you so desperate to see him that you came all the way to Tennessee?” I

questionasIshouldermywaybetweenthetwoguysblockingthedoor,andshelooksatme.

“Idon’twanttoberude,butthisisfamilybusiness,”shemurmurs,lookingcontrite,andmyhands

ballintofistssoIdon’treachoutandstrangleher.

“Baby,”Dillonsaysgently,wrappinghisarmaroundmywaist.
I turn my glare on him, daring him to say something, and then move my eyes back to her and

narrowthemfurther.“I’mhiswife.Thatmakesmethedefinitionoffamily.”Ipointatmyself,andher
eyesfillwithspitebeforeshehidesitwithpity.

“Hedidn’tevengiveyouhismom’sring,”shesays.DillonandParkergrowl,“Whatthefuck?”at

thesametime.

“You’re right. He didn’t, but I don’t see it on your finger, either,” I hiss, lunging for her, but

Dillon’sarmsbandaroundmywaistbeforeIcanreachher.

“Baby,calmdown,”herumbles,butIignorehimandattempttopullmyselffromhisgrasptoget

myhandsonher.

“Getherthefuckoutofhere,”DillonbarksatParker,whoquicklyushersIsladownthestepsto

her car as I fight against his hold. So pissed that my vision has turned red and no amount of self-
controlwillbeabletochangeit.“Calmthefuckdown.”

“No!”Ibuckagainsthim,pissedatmyselfforactinglikeaderanged,jealouswife,andpissedat

himforhavinganythingtodowithher.I’mnotthisperson.I’mnotsomeonewhogetsjealousand
acts crazy… or I wasn’t until him. Sagging against his chest, I close my eyes, feeling defeated and
humiliated.“Letmego.”Hisarmstightenandhismouthdropstomyear.

“I’mnoteverfuckinglettingyougo.”
“Please,”Iwhisper,feelingtearsburnthebackofmyeyes.I’mnotthiswoman,andIdon’twant

tobeher.“Please,justletmego,”Imurmur,andhemusthearthedesperationinmytone,becausehis

armsloosenenoughformetogetaway.

Steppingbackfromhim,Ipullinabreaththenturntofacehim.“Baby.”Hereachesforme,butI

takeanotherstepawayfromhim.

“I…”Ishakemyheadastearsstingmynose.Shuttingmyeyestightly,Ionlyopenthembackup

onceIknowI’vefoughtthemback.

“Whatthefuckwasthat?”Parkerslamsthedoor,makingmejump,andIlookathim,feelingmy

cheeksheatinembarrassment.Ican’tbelieveIactedthewayIdidinfrontofhim.Ican’tbelievehe
justsawmeatmyworst.

“I’lltalktoyouaboutitinaminute.GocheckonCaraandtheboys.IneedtotalktoAsh.”
“Fine,butyoubettertellmewhatthefuckisgoingon,”hewarnsbeforestormingofftowardthe

kitchen,andmyeyesfollowhisretreatingback.

“Comehere,”Dilloncalls,andmyeyesgotohisandIjerkmyheadfromlefttoright.
I…Ineedsometi—”Ibeginquietly,andhisjawclenchesashecutsmeoff.
“I’mnotlettingyougo.”
“Youguysgotothezoo.Ijustneedsometimealone.”
“Youdon’tneedtimealone,”hedenies,andmystomachtwists.
“Ido.This…you…God!Idon’tevenknowthepersonIjustwas,”Icry,andhetakesastepcloser

to me, but I move before he can touch me. “Please, I’m begging you. Just give me some time to
think.”Iholdupmyhandtowardhimoff,andhiseyesdroptomyoutstretchedpalm.

“Goddammit.Letmeholdyou!”heroars,andIcringe,feelingmyshoulderssag.
“Ithinkwebothneedsometimetothink.Sometimetocalmdown,”Iwhisper,andhiseyesclose

thenopenandpinmeinplace.

“If you’re not here when I get back and I have to come find you, I’m going to be pissed,” he

snarls,thenturnsandstormsoff,leavingmeshaken.

Chapter10

Dillon

“T

ALK

.”

Lookingatmybrother,Ifeelmyteethgrindtogether.“Idon’tevenknowwheretofuckingstart,”

Imutter,leaningagainstthefenceinfrontofme,notseeingtheboysandCarafeedingtheanimals
inside the pen. My mind is consumed with Ashlyn and the look I saw on her face before I left her
standinginthefoyer.

“YoucanstartbytellingmewhythehellIslaisstillaround.Ithoughtyoucutheroutofyourlife

afteryouendedyourbullshitengagementtoher.”

“Idid,”Igritout,andheshakeshishead,leaninghiselbowsontherail.
“I told you it was stupid to even pretend to be with her. I told you that shit was whack and was

goingtoblowupinyourface.”

“Idon’tneedtohear‘Itoldyouso’rightnow.Youknowhowitwasgrowingupinthathouse.Her

parentswerearound,butwereneverreallythere.Andwhenyouleft,itwasjustmeandher.It’snotan
excuse, but I’d always just taken on the job of looking out for her, so I missed it. I didn’t see her
bullshitforwhatitwas.Ihadnoideashewasintomelikethat.”

“Icouldhavetoldyoushewasinlovewithyou.She’sbeenstandingunderyourtreeforyears,

tryingtogetyoutogiveheranapple.”

“Whatthefuckdoesthatevenmean?”Iask,feelingmybrowspullsharplytogether.
“I’vebeenreadingTheGivingTreetotheboysatnight.”Heshrugsandsmiles.
“IwouldbebetterofftalkingtoCararightnow.”
“Probably not. You know how she feels about Isla,” he mutters, and I cringe, remembering the

firsttimeParkerbroughtCaratoNewYorktomeeteveryone.Islatriedduringthatvisittohookhim
upwithoneofherfriends,rightinfrontofCara,andCaralosthermind.Afterthat,sherefusedto
haveanythingtodowithIsla—orherparents,becausetheyactedlikeitwasn’tabigdealandlaughed
itoff.“I’mjustgladCaradidn’tseeIsla.YouandIbothknowshewouldhavehelpedAshlynkickher
ass.”Helaughs,andmyjawticks.

“Thisshit’snotfunny,”Igrowl,andhepullshiseyesfromthekidsandCaratolookatme.
“Youneedtocalmthefuckdown.Itwillallbeokay,”hemutters,butthefeelinginmychestwon’t

goaway,andIknowitwon’tuntilIseeher.

“Fuck,Ican’tdothis.Ican’tstayhere.Ineedtogohomeandcheckonher.”Ipullmycarkeys

frommypocketandshovethemathim.“Takemycar.I’llgetacabtotakemebacktothehouse.”

“Doyouwantustofindahotelforthenight?”heasksquietly,andIshakemyhead.
“No,Ijustneedsometime.TakeCaraandtheboysouttodinner.”
“Sure,whateveryouneed.”Henods,puttingmykeysinhisfrontpocket.
“I’llseeyoulater,”Itellhim,leavingwithoutsayinggoodbyetoCaraandtheboys.
Makingmywayoutofthezoo,IcallTimandseeifhe’savailabletopickmeup.Luckily,he’s

close,andiswaitingoutfrontformeassoonasIleavethefrontgate.

“Didyourcarbreakdown?”heasks,openingthebackdoor.

“No,mybrother ’susingit.He’sstayingherewithhiswifeandkids.”
“Iseverythingokay?”
“Yeah,somethingcameupthatIneedtotakecareofathome.”
“I’llgetyoutherequickly,”hemutters,shuttingthedoor.
Rollingupthedividerbetweenus,IpulloutmycellphonetocallAshlyn,andthengritmyteeth

whenshedoesn’tanswer.Thedrivetothehouseseemstotakeforever,eventhoughIknowit’sonly
fifteenminutes.Assoonaswepullupoutfront,IhandTimenoughmoneytocoverthetripandextra
foratipbeforeIgetout,slammingthedoor.Enteringthehouse,Iheadtowardthelibrary,knowing
that’swhereIwillfindherifshedidn’ttakeoffonme.AssoonasIentertheroom,Ifindhercurled
uponthecouchwithablanketpulleduptohershouldersandhereyesclosed.

Takingaseatinthecrookofherlap,Irestmypalmagainsthercheekandhereyesflutteropen.

“Youdidn’tleave,”Imurmur,andsheattemptstositup,butIkeepherwheresheisbyleaningmy
bodyintohers.

“ItoldyouIwouldn’t.”
“I’msorry,baby.”
Frowning,sheshakesherheadandtriestosituponcemore.“Whyareyousorry?You’renotthe

onewhoactedlikeacrazyperson.”

“You didn’t act like a crazy person. You reacted when you felt someone was a threat. Your

reactionwascompletelynormal.”

“Youthinktryingtoattacksomeoneisnormal?”Shecloseshereyes,andIrestmyhandoverher

heart.

“Baby.”Hereyesopen,andIfeelmyheartbeatagainstmyribcageinsyncwithhersagainstmy

palm.“IwouldkillsomeoneifIthoughttheywereathreat,andIwouldgotowarwithanyperson
that tried to come between us. That is not crazy. That’s me protecting the most vital part of me,
becauseitlivesinsideofyou.”

“Dillon.”Shecloseshereyes,restingherhandovermineonherchest.“I…Idon’tliketheperson

Iwas.”

“That’sokay,becauseIloveher,”IsaygentlyasIrunmythumboverherpoutedbottomlip.“I

hate what happened, but I loved seeing that your feelings for me are just as strong as mine are for
you.”Idipmyheadandkisshersoftlythenpullback.

“I told you that Isla and her family do not factor into our lives, and I meant that. They do not

mattertome.Youaremypriority.Ourfutureandyourhappinessarethemostimportantthingstome.
I cut Isla out of my life when I told her that I was done going along with her lie, and she tried to
convincemethatsheneededmoretime.Iknewthenthatshewasaliar,butmysenseofloyaltytoher
parentsmadeithardformetoadmitittomyself.IwishIneveragreedtodowhatIdid,butIcan’t
changethat.Icanonlypromiseyoutodaywasthelasttimeyouwillseeher.Ifshetriestocontactme
again,I’llfilearestrainingorderagainsther.”

“Butherparents?”
“Theywillhavetounderstand,andiftheydon’t,Iwillhavetomakeadecisionaboutwhatrole

theywillplayinmylife.Yourwellbeingisallthatmatters.”

“HowmadisParkeratme?”
“What?” I frown, and she tries to sit up once more, but I hold her down then smile when she

growlsandblowsoutafrustratedbreath.“WhywouldParkerbemadatyou?”

“Um…becausehefoundouthisbrother ’snewwifeisalunatic.”
“Baby, Cara hates Isla and has refused to have anything to do with her or her family. If anyone

understandswhathappenedtotoday,itwouldbeParker.”

“What,wasIslafake-engagedtoParkertoo?”
“No,smartass.IslatriedtohookParkerupwithoneofherfriendsrightinfrontofCara.Thatdid

notgooverwell.”

“Ibetnot,”shemurmurs,andIgrin,runningmyfingeracrossherbrowthatisnolongerholding

thetensionitwasearlier.

“Areyoufeelingbetter?”
“Ithinkso.Istilldon’tlikethewayIletIslagettome.”
“Iunderstandthat,butpleasedon’tpullawayfromme.Ihateseeingyouupset,andIreallydon’t

likewhenyouholdyourselfawayfrommewhenyouare.”

“Ijustneededsometimealonetothink.”
“I get that, which is why I left, but I won’t always be able to do that. Leaving you goes against

everythingIbelievein.”

“Youweren’tgonelong.”
“Ididn’ttellyouIwouldbeabletostayaway,”Imutter,andherlipstwitchasshesitsup.“Arewe

goodnow?”

“Yes.”Sheducksherheadanddropshereyestoherhands.Seeingherspinthesimplegoldband

aroundherfinger,Ishakemyhead,wonderingwhythefuckIslabroughtupMom’sweddingring.

“ParkergaveMom’sringtoCara,”Iexplainsoftly,andhereyesmeetmineassheswallows.“My

momwasn’tbigonjewelry,sothatwastheonlythingofhersthatsheleftus,andParker,beingthe
oldest,gotit.”

“Dillon—”
“IknowIshouldgetyousomethingthatyoucanshowoff,somethingthateveryonecansee.But

thisring”—Igrabherhand,rubbingmythumboverit—“thisringrepresentsthemomentwestarted,
the moment you became mine, and that makes it more valuable than anything I could ever afford.”
Tearsfillhereyesasshethrowsherselfagainstme,wrappingherbodyaroundmine.Holdingher,I
letoutabreathandfeelaweightliftoffmychest.

“Tell me you love me,” she whispers, and I bury my face in her neck, absorbing her scent of

vanillaintomylungs.

“Iloveyou,baby.Don’teverdoubtit.”
“I love you too.” Her soft words seep into my skin and fill in the parts of me that have been

missingsinceIlostmyparents.IalwaysknewIwouldfindsomeonetosharemylifewith,butInever
evendreamedshewouldbeperfectformeineveryway.

“Didyoueatbreakfast?”Iaskherafterafewminutesofjustholdingher,knowingshewasn’tup

thismorningwhenweallate.Shehasatendencytoforgetaboutfoodunlessit’srightinfrontofher.

“No,Icameinheretothinkafteryouleft,andfellasleep.”
“Comeon,I’llmakeyousomething.”Ipickherupandcarryherintothekitchen,whereIsether

ontheisland.“Howaboutpeanutbutterandjelly?”

“Idon’tthinkI’vehadoneofthosesinceIwasten.”Shegrins,andIleanin,wrappingmyhand

aroundherjawandkissinghersoftlybeforepullingaway.

“Well, let me remind you how good they are.” I reluctantly step away from her and go about

makingherasandwichthenhearherphonering.Watchingherhopofthecounterandwalkacrossthe
kitchen,Iseeherpickuphercellandputittoherear.

“I was going to call you,” she says with a smile. Then frowns and asks, “No, what happened?”

Restingherpalmagainstthecounter,herheaddropsbetweenhershouldersasshespeakssoftly.“We

drovebytherelastnight.Isawthepoliceandnewstrucks.”Sheshakesherhead,andImovetoward
her.“Yes,atfirstIthoughtitwasanaccidentuntilIsawaCSIvan.Dotheyknowwhoitwas?”she
questions,lookingatme.Shereplies,“Iwon’tbeanymore”towhateverthepersononthephonesaid.

“What’sgoingon?”
“It’sMichelle.TheyfoundawomanstabbedtodeathinOaksParklastnight.”
“Jesus.”WithParker,Cara,andthekidsshowinguplastnight,andIslashowingupthismorning,I

completelyforgotaboutdrivingbythereandseeingthenewsvansandpolice.“Dotheyknowwhoit
is?”

“Michelle said no. She just saw the story on the news and thought of me, since she knows I run

thereonoccasion.”

“Notanymore,”Igrowl,thinkingofherrunningtherealonewithherearbudsin,oblivioustoany

threat,andsomeoneattackingher.

“Definitely not anymore,” she agrees, shaking her head then dropping her eyes, and I know

Michelleissayingsomethingtoher.

“Yes,nextSaturday,andno,therewillnotbestrippers,”shemutters,andIusemyhandunderher

jawtopullherfaceuptogainhereyes.

“IsweartoChristifnakedmenshowupatyourbacheloretteparty,Iwillspanktheshitoutofyou

whenyougethome.”Hereyeswidenandherpinktonguecomesouttotouchherbottomlipasshe
nods.Seeingtheflareofdesireinhereyesmixedwithtrepidation,IwonderifIshouldn’tjustspank
herthenexttimeIhavehernakedinfrontofmetoseewhatherreactionis.

“Shut up, Michelle,” she grumbles. Then she whispers, “Yeah, bye.” Before I can grab her, she

pullsthecellphonefromherear,tossingitontothecounter,andscootspastme.“Thissandwichis
delicious.”Shegrinsaroundamouthful,andIshakemyheadwhilewalkingtowardher.

AssoonasI’mcloseenoughtotouchher,Ibend,placingakisstoherforehead.“Doyouwant

somemilkbeforeyouchokeonit?”

“Yes,please.”Shesmiles,pickingthecrustoffthebread,thenhopsupononeofthestoolsasI

walkacrossthekitchentograbthegallonofmilkfromthefridge.Fillingaglassforherandonefor
myself,Itakethemovertotheislandandtakeaseatnexttoher.“Doyouneedtogobacktopickup
yourbrother?”sheasksasIopentheboxofcupcakes,smilingwhenIseetherearesixleft.

“No,Ileftmycarwithhim.”
“Howdidyougethome?”sheasksaftertakingabiteofhersandwichandasipofmilk.
“Tim was in the area, so he was able to drive me,” I explain before sinking my teeth into the

cupcake.

“You must really like those. I never see you eat sweets, and that has to be the third one you’ve

had.”

“Fourth,”Icorrect,hearingherlaughterringthroughthekitchen,makingmesmile.It’sbeenfar

toolongsinceI’veheardhercarefreelaughter,andImissit.“Weneedavacation,baby,”Isaysoftly,
andshenods,rippingafewmorepiecesofthecrustoffhersandwich.

“Iwouldlovetogetawaywithyou,butIknowthingshaveonlygottenbusiersinceyou’vetaken

overtheoffice,andIdon’tseeitslowingdownanytimesoon.”

“Morepatientsequalmoremoney,whichmeansIcanaffordtohireanotherdentist.I’llfigureit

outthiscomingweek.”

“Youdon’tthinkit’stoosoontohireanotherdentist?”
“No, not at the rate we’re growing. And really, I want to have a third person on to help cover

thingsifyouandIneedtobeoutoftheofficeforanextendedperiodoftime.”

“Whywouldweneedtobeoutoftheofficeforanextendedperiodoftime?”Shefrowns,andI

studyherforamomentbeforespeaking.

“When we have kids, I’ll want to be home with you as often as I can. Right now, it would be

difficulttodothat,andIwouldmostlikelyhavetoclosethepracticeandworksomewhereelsethat
wouldallowmetomakemyownhours.”

“HaveyoubeentalkingtoParkerabouthavingkids?”sheasksquietly,andIfrown.
“No,why?”
“Hementionedushavingkidsthismorning,andaskedwhenwearegoingtostart.”
“Whatdidyousaywhenheaskedyou?”
“Isaidafewyears.”Sheshrugs,takingalargebiteofhersandwich,andIstareatherindisbelief.
“Wearenotwaitingafewyears,”Ideny,feelingmylipcurlattheideaalone.
“Really,andwhatwasyourplan?”sheaskssarcastically,raisingabrow.
“Now.Thesoonerthebetter.Wehaven’tbeenusingprotection,soitcouldhappenanytime.”
Staringatmewithhereyeswide,sheshakesherheadandmutters,“I’monbirthcontrol.”
“Noyou’renot.”
“Yes,Iam.I’montheshot.Mynextappointmentisin…”Shelooksattheceiling,wigglingher

headbackandforth,thendropshereyesbacktome.“Justabouteightweeksaway.”

“Cancelit.Youdon’tneedtogetitagain.”
“Pardon?” She sets her sandwich down on her plate and crosses her arms over her chest while

narrowinghereyesonmine.

“Youdon’tneedtobeontheshot,andwhydidn’tyoutellmeyouwere?”
“Haveyoubeentryingallthistimetogetmepregnant?”shequestions,soundingpissedoff,andI

knowbyhertoneIshouldprobablytreadlightly.

“Ididn’tknowyouwereonanything.”
“Soyouhavebeen,”shemutters,lookingawayfromme.“Wow,justwhenIthinkyoucan’tget

any crazier, you go and do something that makes me wonder just how much crazier you’re gonna
get.”

“Iwantafamilywithyou.Thereisnothingcrazyaboutthat.Iwanttoseeyouholdingourkidsthe

way I’ve seen you holding Hope, and I want to see that smile you only give her directed at our
babies.”

“We’rejustgettingtoknoweachotherasamarriedcouple.Iwantkids,butIdon’tthinkrightnow

isthetimetohavethem.Iwantustohavetime,justthetwoofus,beforewebringababyintoour
family.AndIjustgraduated!Ijuststartedmycareer.”Shewavesherhandaround.“Iwanttoenjoyall
ofthisstuffforawhile.”

“Oneyear,I’llgiveyouthatlong,”Icompromise,andsheleansclose,placingherhandagainst

myjaw.

“Atleasttwo.Youwon’tchangemymind.It’smewhowillhavetocarryourbabies,andit’sme

thatusstartingafamilywillaffectthemost.Itshouldbemydecisionwhenithappens,”shesaysthen
lowershervoice,hittingmerightinthegut.“Iloveyou,andIwantyoutohaveeverythingyouwant,
butIalsoneedyoutolovemeenoughtounderstandthisisyouandme.Thisisourfuture.Weshould
bemakingthesebigdecisionstogether.”

“You’renotgivingmetheopportunitytomakethesedecisionswithyou.”
“IfIwasn’tonbirthcontrol,wewouldprobablybepregnantrightnow,andthatwouldhavebeen

allyourchoice.Sodon’ttrytomakemefeelbadabouttellingyouwhatIneed.”

“Fine,”Igrumble.“I’llwaituntilyoutellmeyou’reready,butjustsoyouknow,I’mnothappy

aboutit.”

“Trust me. You’re making that very obvious.” She laughs, closing the distance between us and

touchinghermouthtomine.

“I’

GUESSING

themake-outsessionwewalkedinonwhenwegotbackherethatyouandAshlynare

okay,”Parkersays,andIhearthesmileinhisvoicebutIdon’tturntoseeit.Myeyesaregluedon
wheremywifeisstandinginthekitchenattheislandwithmynephews,showingthemhowtomake
monkeymelt—whateverthefuckthatis.

“We’re good,” I mutter back, then smile as I watch her throw her head back, laughing at

something one of the boys said. Pulling my eyes from her, I turn to face my brother, catching his
smirkandalookonhisfaceIcan’tread.

“What?”
Taking a pull from his beer, his eyes go to the backyard. “I honestly never thought I’d see you

settleddown.”Heshakeshishead,returninghisgazetomine.“AndIsureasfuckneverthoughtI’d
seeyouinlove.”

“Why?”
“You’ve always been obsessively focused on your career. I didn’t think you would ever find

someoneyou’dcareaboutmorethanthat.”

He’sright;I’vealwaysbeenfocusedonmycareer,becauseIwantedtobesomeoneourparents

wouldhavebeenproudtocalltheirson.Everythinghas,insomeway,beenaboutthemandkeeping
their memory alive. Until her. She changed my focus and brought me back to life. She made me
realizetherearemoreimportantthingsthanmoneyandwork.

“She changed everything,” I say quietly, more to myself than him. I hadn’t realized it until now

howmuchshe’schangedme.

“Icanseethat.”Hepatsmyshoulder.“I’mhappyforyou,andMomandDadwouldbehappyfor

youtoo.”

“Doyouthinkso?”Iquestion,feelingapainhitmychest.ThesamepainIgeteverytimeIthink

aboutthem.

“Alltheyeverwantedwasforustobehappy,soIknow,withoutadoubt,theywouldbehappyfor

you.”

“Istillmissthem,”Isigh,takingaseat,droppingmyelbowstomyknees,andwatchinghimtakea

seatinthechairnexttomine.

“Me too, every damn day. And since we had the boys, it’s only gotten worse. They would have

loved being grandparents, and they missed out on that, while I missed out on seeing them with my
kids.Thatshitsucksanddoesnotgoaway.”

“Howdoyoudealwithit?”Iask,realizingthisisthefirsttimewe’vetalkedaboutourparentsin

years.

“HavingCara’sparentshelps.Havingyoudoes,too.Butreally,havingthememoriesIhadwith

MomandDad,andbeingabletosharethosewithmysons,iswhatgetsmeby.Therewillalwaysbe
anemptyplacefromtheirloss,butIhopethatinsomewayI’mkeepingtheirmemoryalivethrough
myboys.”

“Youare,andMomandDadwouldhavebeenproudofyou,”Iassure,holdinghisgaze,andhis

eyesflashwithbothsadnessandgratitude.

Hearingtheslidingdooropen,bothourheadsturntowarditasJordanstickshisheadoutofthe

crack,andyells,“Monkeymelt’sready!Comeon,hurryup!”beforeslidingthedoorclosed.

“Whatthehellismonkeymelt?”Parkerasks,andIshrugwhilestanding.
“Don’tknow,butIguesswe’regoingtofindout.”
Takingmyemptybeerwithme,IheadinsidewhereI’mimmediatelystruckbythescentofbaked

cinnamon rolls. Dumping my empty bottle in the trash, I grab a fresh one for me and another for
Parker before heading across the kitchen to where Ashlyn is standing. Leaning against the island at
herside,Iwatchherscoopoutvanillaicecreamontopofalargepanofbakedcinnamonrollsand
slicedbananas.

“Willyougetmethecarameloutofthemicrowave?”sheasks,tiltingherheadbacktolookatme,

andInod,placingakisstohertemple,thengetthecaramelshe’sheatedinthejartotakeovertoher.

“Thisisacommunaldessert.”Shesmiles,tippingthejarofcaramelover,lettingitrunacrossthe

topoftheicecream,andfinishingwithahandfulofcrushedpecans.“Everyonegrabaspoonanddig
in,”shemurmurs,pushingthehotpanintothemiddleoftheislandweareallgatheredaround.

“Oh,myGod.ThisiswhatHeavenmusttastelike,”Caragroans,diggingherspoonintothepan

foranotherbitebeforeshe’sevenswallowedherfirstone.

“Holyshit,thisisgood,”Parkersaysasecondlater,andIhearAshlaughasCarahitshischest

and nods at the boys, who are not paying attention to him. They are both now belly-down on the
island,withtheirfaceshoveringoverthepan,shovelingthemonkeymeltintotheirmouthslikeit’s
goingtodisappear,whichitkindofis.

“Areyougoingtohaveany?”Ashasks,lookingatmeaftershe’sswallowedherbite.
“I’mtryingtocomeupwithaplanofattack,soIdon’tgetmyhandbittenoff,”Imutterdryly.
Laughing, she takes the spoon from me and digs into the dish before holding it in front of my

mouth.Leaningin,IclosemylipsaroundthespoonandholdhereyesasIpullback,watchingthem
flareanddarken.

“So,”shetipsherheadtothesideonceI’vechewedandswallowed,“whatdoyouthink?”
“Ithink you’ve beenholding out onme,” I mutter, diggingin for anotherbite, stealing a scoop

rightoffJordan’sspoon.Ihearhimwhine,“UncleDillon,thatwasmine!”whichmakesmelaugh.

“Icouldn’tmakeitbeforenow.Therehastobeenoughpeopletoeatit,”sheexplains,scooping

outabiteforherself.

“Icouldeatawholepanofitbymyself,”Itellhertruthfullyaroundamouthful,andshegrins.
“Youwouldbesick.Trustme,Iknowfromexperience.”
“Youhavetogivemetherecipeforthis,”Carasays,noteventenminuteslater,astheboysscrape

thebottomofthepanfortheremnantsofthedessert.

“It’s easy. Just a can of cinnamon rolls cut up and baked. Once they’re done, you top them with

slicedbananas,icecream,caramel,andpecans.Sometimes,Imeltpeanutbutterintothecarameland
dumpthatonthere,butthisisreallythebestwaytomakeit.”

“Thatseemseasyenough,”Caraagrees,andParkersmiles.
“Easyenoughforevenyoutomake,babe,”heteases.
Placingherhandsonherhips,sheglaresathim.“Icancook.”
“Baby,Iloveyou.Youareamasteratmanythings,butcookingisnotoneofthem.”
“Itookthatcookingclasslastmonth,andtheinstructortoldmehethoughtIwastalented.”
“Thatinstructorliedtoyou.”
“No,hedidn’t.”
“Hedid,babe.”Hechuckles.

“YoutoldmewhenIgothomeandgaveyoutheleftoversthatitwasthebestthingyou’veever

eaten.”

“Iwantedablowjob.”Heshrugs,andhereyesnarrowevenfurther.
“What’sablowjob?”Kenyonbreaksin,andParker ’seyeswidenwhileCara’sgototheceiling.
“Uhh…it’suhh…”Helooksaroundforhelp.“I-it’skindoflikeareward,”hestuttersout,andI

feelAshlyn’sbodynexttomineshakinguncontrollablythenhearhersnort.

“Why—” Kenyon starts, but Cara cuts him off, shouting, “Boys. Shower. Now,” before he can

finishwhateveritwashewasabouttosay.

“Dowehaveto?”bothJordanandKenyonaskatthesametime,lookingbetweentheirparents.
“Yes,nowgoonup.I’llbethereinaminute.”
“Oh,allright,”Jordangrumblesastheybothhopdownofftheislandandrunoutofthekitchen.

Assoonasthey’regone,CaraturnsonParkerandpokeshiminthechestwithherfinger.

“IsweartoGod,thefirsttimetheysaythewordsblowjobandrewardinthesamesentence,I’m

filingforadivorce,”shehisses,pokinghimonelasttimebeforeturningonherheelsandstorming
away.

“You’reanidiot,”Imuttertomybrother,hearingAshlynsnortagainthencough.
“Sorry.” She giggles, covering her mouth. “I…” She snorts again, shaking her head while her

faceturnsred.“I’llbeback.”Sherunsoff,andIhearherlaughingandsnortingasshegoes,making
megrin.

“I totally forgot they were here,” Parker grumbles, watching Ashlyn run off, and then turns to

look at me and grins. “I hope they never say that shit around Cara’s mom. She will drag my ass to
churchanddrownmeinthebaptismpool.”

“Ifthathappens,callme.Iwanttocomewatch.”
“Shutup.”Hesmiles,thenlooksatthedoor.“Ibettergohelphergettheboystobed.”
“Thatwouldprobablybewise,”Iagree,watchinghimgo,thenpickuptheemptypanandspoons

andtakethemtothesinkbeforefillingthepanwithwateranddumpingthespoonsin.

“DidParkergoup?”AshasksasIflipoffthewaterandturntofaceher.
“Yeah.”
“Iknowit’swrong,butthatwasreallyfunny.”Shelaughsasshehopsuponthecounter.“It’slike

the time Hope couldn’t pronounce popcorn and kept calling it cockporn.” She giggles, and I grin,
walkingtowhereshe’ssittingandmakingroomformyhipsbetweenherlegs,thenpullingherflush
againstme.

“Youlookhappy,”Istate,touchinghersmilingmouthwithmyfingertips.
Her face softens, and her hands come up to rest on the underside of my jaw. “I am. Seeing you

happy,makesmehappy.IwishParkerandCaralivedcloserwiththeboys.”

“Metoo,”Iagree,kissinghersoftlybeforepullingback.“Tomorrow,Iwanttotakethemoutto

panforgold.DoyouwanttoseeifHopecancome?”

“Yeah,I’llcallJaxinafewandseewhat’sgoingon.”
“Good.”
“Friday,afterIgetoffwork,IhaveanappointmentwithKimtodomyhair.I’mgoingtoaskCara

ifshewantstocome,soifshesaysyes,youandtheboysareonyourown.”

“That’sfine.I’msurewecanfindsomethingtodo.”
“Awesome,”shebreathesasIrunmythumboverherbottomlip,draggingitdownbeforenipping

it lightly, listening to her breath catch. I thrust my tongue between her parted lips, swallowing her
moanassheclingstome.

Hearing a horrified scream come from upstairs, she shoves me back, hops off the counter, and

runsoutofthekitchenbeforeIcancatchher.

“DammitAsh,”Igrowl,followingheruptothesecondfloor,andthenalmostplowheroveras

shestopssuddenly.

“What—?”
“There’saratinthecloset!”Carascreeches,holdingatoweltoherchestasbothboysrunintothe

hallnaked,drippingwatereverywhere,withParkerbehindthemsoakingwet.

“Arat?”Ifrown,andhereyesfillwithfearasshelooksattheclosetandnods.
“Yes,ahugerat.I…Iwasgettingatowel,andit…it—”
“Oh,myGod.”Ashdoublesoverlaughing.
“This isn’t funny!” Cara shouts, and Ash laughs harder. Realizing why she’s laughing like a

madwoman,Iwalktowardtheclosetandplacemyhandontheknob.

“Don’t open it, you idiot!” Cara shrieks, trying to climb up Parker ’s back while the boys jump

around behind her. Ignoring the craziness going on around me, I swing the linen closet door open
thenreachupandpullLeodownfromhishidingplace.

“It’samonster!”Jordanscreams,runningoffasAshlyndropstoherknees,holdingherstomach.
“It’s Leo.” I hold him out toward Cara and Parker. “He’s not a rat or a monster. He’s a cat,” I

informeveryone,andCaraglaresatmefrombehindherhusband’sback.

“Thatisnotacat.”
“Heisacat.”IchuckleasLeohissesandswipesatmetobeputdown.
“What’s wrong with him?” Kenyon asks, studying Leo as Ash finally pulls herself together

enoughtostandandtakehimfromme.

“He’shairless.There’snothingwrongwithhim.It’sjustthewayheis.”
“Doyouthinkyoucouldhavewarnedmethatyouhaveahairlesscatlivinginthecloset?”Cara

askshaughtily,andIlaugh.

“Sorry,Ididn’tthinkaboutit.Leoisn’tverysocial,soIforgethe’sevenheremostofthetime.”
“Iswear,IthoughtIwasgoingtodiewhenitpokeditsheadoutatme.”Shelaughs,holdingher

chest,walkingtowardAshsoshecangetabetterlookatLeo,whoisfightingtogetfree.

“Isitsafe?”Jordanyells,andIlookdowntheendofthehallandseehimstickinghisheadaround

thecorner.

“It’ssafe,bud.It’snotamonster.It’sjustacat,”Parkersays.Thenmutters,“Anuglycat,butacat.”
“He’snotugly!”Ashlyncriesindenial,holdingahissingLeoclosertoherchest.
“Surehe’snot.”ParkersmilesatherasJordanandKenyonbothcautiouslycomeovertopetLeo,

butthenshriekandjumpawaywhenhefinallygetshisway,breaksfreefromAshlyn’shold,andruns
off.

“DoyouhaveanyotherweirdanimalsIshouldknowabout?”CaraasksasParkerushersthestill

nakedboysbacktowardthebathroom.

“Nope.”
Ismile,andsheshakesherhead,muttering,“Thattooktenyearsoffmylife,”beforeturningand

followingParkerandtheboysdownthehall.

“Okay,sotheblowjobthingwasfunny,butthatwashilarious.”Ashgiggles.
“Nut.” I kiss her head then tuck her under my arm to lead her back downstairs, this time to the

library,whereIproceedtomakeoutwithheruntilParkerandCaracomedownafterputtingtheboys
inbed.

Chapter11

Ashlyn

ALKING

TOWARD

THE

door in the coffee shop, juggling my iced coffee, purse, and bag of treats, I

stop dead in my tracks and stare at the rack of newspaper set up near the entrance. Gaping at the
pictureofpolicegatheredaroundawhitetentonthefrontpage,Ifeelthecolordrainfrommyfaceas
Ireadthecaption.

Anotherwomanfoundmurdered.Policestillhavenoleads.
“Sad,isn’tit?”Startled,Iturnmyheadtolookatthewell-groomedmanstandingnexttome,but

thentakeastepbackwhenIrealizehowcloseheis.“SorryIscaredyou.”Hesmilessoftly,tucking
hishandsintothefrontpocketsofhisdarkjeans,causinghisbutton-downshirttopulltightacrosshis
chest.

“Umm…it’sfine,”Imurmur,andhenods,scanningmyface.
“Hopefullythepolicecatchthekillerbeforelong,”hemutters,thenturnsawayandwalkstoward

thecounter.Shakingofftheweirdfeelingslitheringovermyskin,Ileavethecoffeeshopandrush
downthestreettotheoffice.Onceinside,Ilockthedoorbehindme,dumpeverythinginmyhands
onto the reception desk, and head down the hall to Dillon’s office. His head comes up from his
computer,andhefrowns.

“What’swrong?”Withoutanswering,Iwalktowherehe’ssittingandclimbontohislap,curling

myselfagainsthim,pressingmyforeheadintohisneck,andbreathinginhiscomfortingscent.“Talk
tome,”hesaysgently,rubbingmyback,andmyeyesslideclosed.IknowIshouldn’tbefreakedout
likeIam,butthepaperIjustsawmeanstherehavebeentwowomenfounddeadinjustaweek.

“Theyfoundanotherwomanmurdered,”Iwhisperashisbodyundermineturnstostone.
“Pardon?”Hishandstillsandhisfingersmoveundermyjaw,forcingmyeyestomeethis.
“Iwasgettingcoffeeand—”
“Howwereyougettingcoffee?”hecutsmeoffwithagrowlandItrytositup,buthekeepsmein

place, holding me tightly against him with an arm banned around my waist. “I thought you were
shuttingeverythingdownoutfront.”

“Iwas,butIwantedacoffee,”Iexplainsoftlyashisjawbeginstotwitchlikecrazy.
“Whydidn’tyoucomegetmesoIcouldgowithyou?”
“Ididn’tthinkaboutit,andIknewIwouldbequick.”
“Baby,”hesighs,leaninghisheadback.“Thepolicestillhaven’tcaughtthepersonwhohityou,

soweneedtobecautiousuntiltheydo.”

“I’msorry.Ireallydidn’teventhinkaboutit.”
Hiseyes drop tomeet mine oncemore, and he mutterssomething I can’tmake out, tucking my

face into his neck. “We may have nothing to worry about, but until we know for sure that what
happenedwasanaccident,Ineedtoknowyou’resafe.”

“Iknow.I’llbemorecareful.”
“Good,”hestates,placingakisstothetopofmyhead.
“Maybe I should call off the party,” I say quietly after a moment, and I feel his chest expand. I

knowmycousinswouldunderstand,butI’dstillhatedisappointingthem.

“AsmuchasIwouldloveforyoutocallitoff,it’snotnecessary.IspokewithJaxandEvanafew

days ago and asked them about hiring security. They said they knew a couple guys who would be
willingtokeepaneyeonyougirlswhileyou’reout.”

“Sowe’regoingtohavebabysitters.”Ishakemyhead,knowingthegirlswon’tlikethatatalland

willprobablydosomethingstupid,justtospitewhoeveriswatchingus.

“Not babysitters, just a couple men looking out for you girls. You probably won’t even notice

them.”

“Doyouknowwhotheyare?”
“HarlenandaguynamedZee,whoIhaven’tmetyet.”
“Harlen’scool,sothatwon’tbetoobad,butZeeismarriedtoJuly’sbestfriend,Kayan,whois

comingtotheparty,sothatcouldbeweird.”

“Whywoulditbeweird?”heasks,searchingmyface,andIshrug.
“Youcan’texactlyletloosewhenyourhusbandiswatchingyoureverymove.”
“Youshouldn’tbedoinganythingyouwouldn’tdoinfrontofyourhusbandanyways,”hegrowls

back.

Irollmyeyesthenseethetimeandstandsuddenly,muttering,“Crap,”asIadjustmyskirt.“Cara’s

meetingmeintenminutes.Ifwedon’tgonow,I’mgoingtobelate,”Iremindhimashepullsme
rightbackdownontohislap.

“Youhavetime.”Hekissesmybottomlipthentakesmyjawinhishands,runninghisgazeover

myface.“Areyougonnabeokay?”

MybodymeltsagainsthisandInod.“Yeah.Thewholethingaboutthemurderedwomenjusthas

mefreakedoutabit,especiallyafterwhathappenedtome,”Iadmit,andhisjawtightens.

“Nothingisgoingtohappentoyou.”
“Iknow.It’sjustscary.Therehavebeentwomurdersinoneweek.”
“This isn’t the small town you grew up in anymore. It’s now an extension of the big city that is

gettingcloserbytheday.Unfortunately,withthatcomescrime,baby.”

“I guess you’re right,” I murmur, and his face softens before he places a kiss to my forehead.

Standing us both, I watch him turn off his computer and ask, “Did you decide where you guys are
goingtodinnertonight?”

He tugs off his tie and rolls up the sleeves of his dress shirt. “Your parents’ house,” he mutters

absently,grabbinghiswalletfromthetopdrawerofhisdeskandshovingitinhisbackpocket.

Istareathimindisbelief.“What?IthinkIjustheardyousayyou’rehavingdinneratmyparents’

house.”

Grinning,hepullsmeagainsthischest,dippinghisfaceclosertomine.“Idid,andweare.”
“Wehaven’tevenhaddinneratmyparents’housetogetheryet.”Ifrown,wonderingwhatthehell

mymomisupto.ShenevermentionedinvitingDillontodinnerwhenItalkedtoherthisafternoon,
andthatissomethingshewouldhavebroughtup.

“Don’tpout.”Hekissesmypoutedoutlipsthenturnsmetowardthedoorwithapattomyass.
Spinningbackaround,IplacemyhandsonmyhipswhenIseehislipstwitch.“Whatifit’saset

up?”

“It’snotasetup.”Helaughs,restinghishandagainstmylowerbackandleadingmeoutofhis

office.“It’sjustdinner.YourparentsknowParkerandtheboysarecomingwithme.”

“Your brother would probably laugh his ass of if my dad or Jax decided to chase you with a

shotgun.MaybeIshouldcancelmyappointmentandcomewithyou,justtobesureyou’resafe.”

“Stopbeinganut.It’sgoingtofine.”
“Saideveryman,beforehisfather-in-lawshothim,”Igrumbleundermybreath,listeningtohis

boominglaughterashepicksupmystuffandleadsmeoutthedoor.

“I

SWEAR

’

beenforeversinceI’veseenyou,”Kimsays,rushingtowardmeassoonaswestepfoot

inthesalon,andIsmileasherarmswraparoundmetightly.

“It’sbeenwaytoolong,”Iagree,rockingherfromsidetosidebeforelettinghergotolookat

Cara,whoisstandingnexttome.

“Kim, this is my sister-in-law, Cara. Cara, this is Kim, my amazing hair stylist and friend,” I

introduce.

“Istillcannotbelieveyou’remarriedtoTheDick,”Kimsays,thenhereyeswidenandherface

palesasshelooksfrommetoCara.“I’msosorry.”Shecovershermouth.

“Don’t be sorry.” Cara grins. “I used to call Dillon’s brother Parker The Prick before we got

together,sobeinganassholemustbeafamilytrait,”sheconfides,makinguslaugh.Thenhereyes
glaze over and she breathes, “Holy cow.” Turning to see what’s caught her attention, I watch my
cousinSagepushopenthedoorwithonehandwhileholdingHope’stinyhandwiththeother.

“Yep,holycow,”Kimgrumbles,whileSageliftshischintowardCarasmilessoftlyatKimthen

grinsatme.

“Hey,cuz,”hegreetsasHoperunstowardmeandwrapshertinyarmsaroundmythighs.
“Hey.”
IsmilethenlookdownasHopeshouts,“AuntieAshlyn,you’rehere!”whiletiltingherbodyback

awkwardlytolookupatme.

“Hey, princess.” I smile, picking her up, even though she is way past the stage of being carted

around,andrestingheronmyhip.“Whatareyouupto?”

“JusthangingwithUncleSage.Doin’detectivestuff.”Sheshrugs,likeit’snobigdeal,andIfight

backmysmile.

“Thatsoundsfun.”
“It was only kind of fun, since we didn’t get any bad guys,” she huffs, and I laugh then look at

Sage,whoissmilingather.

“Sage,thisisDillon’sbrother ’swife,Cara.Cara,mycousin,Sage,andyoualreadyknowHope,”

Isay.

“Hello, Cara,” Hope breathes in little girl happiness. When we went panning for gold with the

boys, we took Hope along with us, and she fell in love with my sister-in-law immediately and
convincedherselfthatCaraisoneoftheDisneyprincesses.

“Nice to meet you.” Cara smiles at Sage before running her hand down Hope’s hair. “Hey,

beautifulgirl.”

“Hi.” She wiggles herself to be put down, and then looks between Cara and me. “Are you guys

here to get ready for the ball?” she asks. Then she spins when Ellie yells, “Hope!” loud enough to
makemejump.

“Whatball?”IaskEllie,andsherollshereyes.
“Dinnertomorrow.Hope’sconvincedherselfit’sgoingtobeaball.”Sheshakesherhead,giving

me a side hug, before saying hello to Cara, who she also met last weekend when we picked her
daughteruptogowithus.

“Ithoughtitwasjustafamilydinner.”Iraiseabrow,seeingshehasHope’smouthcovered,and

shedropsherhandawayquicklythenspinsHopetofaceher.

“Whydon’tyougopickanailpolish.Wegotsomenewcolorsintoday.”
“Yay!”Hopeshouts,shootingherarmsintheairwhilerunningoff.
Plantingmyhandsonmyhips,Iglareatmybrother ’swife.“What’sgoingon?First,Dillontells

methathe’shavingdinnerwithmyparentstonight,andnowthis.Somethingisup,andyoubetterspill
it.”

“There’snothingtospill.”Sheshrugs,andInarrowmyeyes,knowingshe’slying,sincesheisthe

worstliarever.“Seriously,thereisnothingtospill,”sherepeats,thenlookspastmeandsmirks.

“No,I’mworkingrightnow,”Kimhissesbehindme,andIpullmyeyesfromEllieandturnto

findSagestandinginKim’sspace,withhisfacedippedclosetohers.

“Wecantalknow,orIcanstopbyyourplacetonight.Youchoose.”
“That’s not exactly a choice.” She glares at him, balling her hands into fists, and his lips twitch

eversoslightly.

“Your choice, sweetheart. I’m good either way, but we both know what will happen if I have to

cometoyourhouse,”hemutters,andhereyeswiden.

“God,youare…youare…Idon’tevenknowwhatyouare,”shegrowls,thenlooksatme.
“I’msosorryaboutthis.I’llberightback,”
“It’sfine,”Iassureher,watchingSageopenthedoor,allowinghertostompoutpasthim.
“Seeyoutomorrow.”Hesmiles,lookingatCara,Ellie,andme.
“Seeyoutomorrow,”Iagreeashelet’sthedoorgoandwalkstowardKim,whoisnowstanding

attheedgeofthesidewalkwithherarmscrossedoverherchestlookingannoyed.

“What’sthatabout?”IquestionEllie,whohasmovedclosertothefrontwindow.
“Last week, Sage found out Kim’s boyfriend isn’t exactly the kind of ‘boyfriend’ he thought he

was.Sincethen,that”—shepointsherfingertowardKimandSage,whoarestandingclosetogether
—“hasbeenhappeningalmosteveryday.”

“Sohefinallyfigureditout?”Iask,staringatEllieindisbelief,andshelaughs.
“Hedidn’texactlyfigureitout.HewasoutwithJaxhavingadrink,andfoundChrismakingout

withaguy.”

“Ohno,”Iwhisper,andshesmiles.
“Ohyeah.ThenhepunchedChrisinthefaceandgavehimablackeye.”
“Shutup?”Ibreathe,lookingbackoutthefrontwindowjustintimetoseeSagegrabKim’swaist

andtugherhipsintohis.

“Swear,”ElliewhisperswhilewewatchKimtrytopushhimaway,onlytohavehimtakeherby

thebackofherneckwithhisfreehandandholdherinplace.IknewKim’splanwasstupidwhenshe
told me what she did. I told her that claiming her gay best friend was her boyfriend was the wrong
way to go about keeping Sage at bay, but she refused to listen to reason. Not that I can blame her.
Whatmycousindidhurther,andawomanwhohasbeenhurtwilldowhatever ’snecessarytoprotect
herselffromiteverhappeningagain.

“JaxsaidSagehasn’tbeenwithanyonesinceher,”Elliesaysquietly,andIpullmyeyesfromthe

window,feelinglikeavoyeurallofasudden,andlookather.

“Really?”Mycousinwasabitofamanwhore,likemybrotherwasbeforeEllie,soIfindithard

tobelievehehasn’tbeenwithanyonesincewhathappenedbetweenhimandKimwentdownalong
timeago.

“Really,” she mutters, and then shrugs. “I hope they figure their stuff out. They would be good

together,iftheycouldjustgetpastallthecrapbetweenthem.”

“Theywouldmakesomebeautifulbabies,”Caraadds,andIlookather,raisingabrow.“What?

Theywould.”

“They really would,” Ellie agrees, then studies me. “But then again, you and Dillon would also

havesomebeautifulbabies.”

“Yes,theywould,”Caraputsin,smiling,andIshakemyheadatbothofthemthenmovemyeyes

tothedoorwhenitchimesandKimstompsbackin,lookingflustered.

“Areyouready?”sheasks,movingtowardthebackoftheshopwithoutstoppingtolookatus.
“Areyouokay?”
Hershouldersslumpandshespinstofaceme,plasteringwhatIknowisafakesmileonherface.

“Absolutelyfabulous.”

“You’reasbadofaliarasEllie.”Ismile,andshepressesherlipstogether.
“He’sannoying.”Shewavesmeoffthennarrowshereyespastmyshoulder,andIturntolookout

thewindowtofindSagestandinginfrontofhistruck,pointingathiswatchwhilelookingather.

“Ohmy,whatdoesthatmean?”Caraasks,soundingbreathlesswhileshestaresatmycousin.
“My guess is Kim’s time is just about up.” Ellie giggles, and Kim growls something under her

breathbeforeturningandstompingtothebackofthesalon.

“Thatmanisseriouslyhot,”CaramuttersbehindmeasIfollowKimtoherstationandtakeaseat

inthechairshe’sturnedaroundforme.

“You’renotsopissedthatyou’llaccidentallychopallofmyhairoff,right?”Ijoke,andhereyes

meetmineinthemirror.

“I’mgood.”Shesmiles,pullinginabreath.“Imayendupkillingyourcousin,butIswearIwon’t

messupyourhair.”

“Good.”
“Andyoudidn’thearmesayImaykillSageoutloud,sincethenitwouldbepremeditated,andI

canonlygetoffifitlookslikeitwasaspontaneousdecision.”

“Ididn’thearanything.”Ismilebackthenpullmyeyesfromhersinthemirrortolookupather.

“Doyouwantmetotellhimtobackoff?”Iaskquietly,andherfacesoftens.

“Idon’tknowwhatIwantanymore.”Sheshrugs.“Everyday,heasksmeout.Andeveryday,Isay

no,but…”Sheshakesherhead,tuckingachunkofhairbehindherear.“Ijust…He’smakingitreally
hardtokeepsayingno.”

“Youlikedhimandhehurtyou.Igetthat,butmaybeyoushouldgivehimachancetoapologize,

andthengofromthere.”

“Hehasapologized.”Sheshrugs.“Ijusthaven’tforgivenhim.”
“Maybeyoucanfindawaytodothatsoyoucanmoveon,”Isay,givingherhandasqueeze.“I’m

notsayingyouneedtomoveonwithhim,butIthinkyouneedtoletwhateverhappenedgosoyou
canfigureoutwhatyouwantforyourself.”

“You’reright,”sheagreesandIleanup,givingherahug,andthensitbacktolookatherinthe

mirror.

“Now,pleasetellmethatyouknowsomethingabouttomorrow’ssupposedfamilydinner.”
“Idon’tknowwhatyou’retalkingabout,”shereplies,andjustlikeEllie,Icantellshe’slying.
Dammit.

“H

YOU

want to get a drink after we’re done here?” Ellie asks, and I pull my eyes from the

mirror,whereIhavebeenwatchingKimcurlmyhair,andlookatCara,whoissittinginfrontofthe

naildryer.

“Doyouwanttogo?”Iask,whenhereyesmeetmine.
“I’malwaysdownforadrink.”Shegrins,andIsmilebackthenlookatEllie.
“We’redown.IjustneedtosendDillonatexttolethimknowwhat’sgoingon.”
“I’llsendJaxatexttooandlethimknowtocomepickupHope.”
“You’recoming,right?”Iask,lookingatKim,andsheshrugs.
“Sure,soundsgoodtome.”
“Awesome,”Imutter,pullingoutmycellphonesoIcansendaquicktexttoDillonandlethim

knowwhattheplanis.Gettinghisreplytext,lessthanaminutelater,Ismile.

No doing anything you wouldn’t do with me watching!!! Call when you get there, and then when

youneedtobepickedup.Jaxhassomeonekeepinganeyeonyouguys,andhe’llfollowyoutothebar.

“WhodoesJaxhavewatchingus?”IaskEllie,andsheshrugs.
“Ihavenoidea.Henevermentionedittome.DidDillonsaysomeoneiswatchingus?”
“Yes.”
“Hmm,noclue,”shemutters,puttingonlip-gloss.
“Whydoweneedsomeonewatchingus?”Caraquestions,andIinwardlygroan.Idon’twanther

tothinkshehasanythingtoworryaboutorthatI’mcrazy.

“MybrotherisoverprotectiveofEllieandHope,andyouknowDillon’scrazy,”Ianswer,andshe

nodslike‘Ohyeah,Itotallygetitmymansthesameway,’thenpullsherhandsoutfromunderthe
naildryeranddanglesthembeforeHope,whosmilesbrightly.

“Whatdoyouthink?”
“They’re beautiful, and now we match.” Hope claps, holding her hands out next to Cara’s,

giggling,andIgrinatthem.

“Gogetyourbagfromtheback,babygirl.Daddywillbeheretogetyouinafewminutes,”Ellie

says,andHopepouts.

“Can’tIcomewithyou?”
“Sorry,no,butIbetDaddywilltakeyououtforicecreamifyouaskhim.”
“Yay! Ice cream!” she yells happily before skipping to the back of the salon, then coming out a

fewminuteslaterwithabrightpinkglitterbackpack.

“You’redone,”Kimsays,andIturnmyheadtolookatmyselfinthemirrorandsmile.
“Likealways,it’sperfect.IwishyoucouldbewithmeeverydaywhenIgetreadyforwork.”
“Oh please, you always look perfect.” She waves me off while putting away her curlers and

things.“Ididn’tsprayit,sinceyouhavethestitches,butwiththeserumthecurlsshouldholdthrough
tomorrow, and before you know it, your hair they had to shave off will grow back. But for now, I
blendeditinsoitwillgrowalittlebetter.”

“Thank you.” I stand and give her a hug. She didn’t do my color, but she did trim my ends and

washmyhairforme,whichiswhatIreallywantedsinceI’mscaredtowashitmyselfafterseeinga
videoofapersonwithinfectedstitches.

“Now,letsgohaveadrink.”Shetakesoffhersmockandtucksitawaythengrabsherpurse.Once

weareoutside,ElliehandsHopeofftoJaxthenproceedstomakeoutwithhim—barf—beforetaking
myhandandleadingmedownthestreettothebarattheendoftheblock.

Assoonaswegetinside,Ifreeze.“Whatthehell?”Ibreathe,seeingmycousinsandfriendsall

gatheredaroundtwolongtablesinthebackofthebar.

“Surprise!”Julysmiles,givingmeahug.“Iknowtomorrowisyourparty,butsinceweareallin

town,wedecidedtogettogethertonight.”

“Do not fricking cry,” Michelle mutters, pulling me in for a hug. “I so wanted to call and warn

you,butJunesaidshe’dkickmyass,anditwouldlookreallybadifapregnantwomanbeatmeup,”
shewhispers.

“Whatever.” June grins, giving me a hug before stepping away to allow April, December, and

Maytocomeforwardandhugmetoo.

“Ididn’tknowyouwereintown,”Ichoke,fightingbacktearsasNaliastepstowardme.
“DidyoureallythinkIwouldmissthis?”Shegrins,wrappingherarmsaroundmetightly.
“I’vemissedyou.”
“I’ve missed you too,” she whispers, and then Willow and Harmony both tackle us at the same

time,rockingusfromsidetoside.

“Wearesohappyforyou.”
“Thankyou.”Ismileatbothofthem,andthenfeelmyjawdropwhenIlookpastthem.
“Hanna.”Istareatmycousin,whoIhaven’tseeninforever,indisbelief.
“Theoneandonly.”Sheholdsoutherarms,andIruntowardher,throwingmyarmsaroundher

andthenleaningbacktolookather.

“IthoughtyouwereinParis.”
“Iwas,butIcouldn’tmissthis.SoItookaflightlastnightandgotinthismorning.”
“God.”Ileanbackandlookaroundthespacethatispackedfullofsomeofmyfavoritewomen,

andtearsstarttoburnthebackofmythroat.

“Nofuckingcrying.It’stimetocelebrate,”Aprilsays,handingmeashot,andIlaughthenshootit

back,holdingtheglassup.Hearingthegirlsallshoutandclap.FindingCarainthecrowdstanding
nexttoKim,IquicklyintroducehertoeveryonebeforedoingexactlywhatAprilsuggested.

SeeingHarmonysuddenlydisappearunderthetable,Ifrown,tiltingmyheadundertheledgeto

lookather.

“Whatareyoudoing?”Iask,feelingalittledizzyfromthefivelemondropshotsI’vehadandmy

awkward,almostupsidedownposition.

“Um…Ilostanearring.”
“Oh,I’llhelpyoufindit,”Imumble,scootingmychairbacksoIcangetunderthetablealong

withher.Crawlingonmyhandsandkneesacrossthefloor,IrealizeIhavenoideaexactlywhatI’m
lookingfor.“Whatdoesitlooklike?”Iquestion,liftingmyheadtolookather,andherfaceturns
red.

“Ididn’treallyloseanearring,”shewhispers,crawlingtowardme,andIfalltomybottomand

raiseabrow.

“Thenwhyareyouunderthetable?”
“Harlen’shere.”
“What?”
“Harlen’shere,”sherepeats.
“Ithoughtyoutwowerefriends?”
“Wewere…”
“Sowhyareyouhidingfromhim?”
“Ikissedhim.”ShesaysafteralongmomentandIblink.
“Oh,myGod!Youareadamnliar,”Willowsnaps,andIwatchherfalltoherassunderthetable

thencrawltowardus,shakingherheadandpointingatHarmony.“YoutoldmewhenIaskedwhyyou
haven’tbeenhangingoutwithhimanymorethatnothinghappenedbetweenyoutwo.”

“So, is the party under the table now?” April asks, suddenly appearing at my side, handing me

anothershotthatItakeimmediately.“Ikindoflikeit.It’scozy,”shemutters,lookingaround,andI
giggle.

“Oh my God,” Harmony groans, covering her face with her hands. “You all need to get out of

herebeforeyoublowmycover.”

“What’sgoingon?”Julyasksasecondlater,appearingoutofthinair.
“Godhelpme,”Harmonygrowls,glaringateveryone.
“What’sherproblem?”Julyasks,noddingtowardHarmony.
“She kissed Harlen.” Willow shrugs as Harmony narrows her eyes on her. “What? I don’t

understandwhatthebigdealis.Sowhatyoukissedpeoplekisseveryday.”

“Itwasbad.”
“Howwasitbad?”Iask,seeingtheuneaseinhereyes.
“I.” She shakes her head frantically. “Jeez, this is so embarrassing. Can you guys just go and

forgetIeversaidanything?”

“No,”Willowsnaps,gettingclosertohersister.“Spill.”
“Ikissedhimandhedidn’tlikeit….Okay?”Shehuffs.
“Oh,”Ibreatheinunderstanding.“Haveyoutalkedtohimaboutit?”Iasksoftly.
“No.”Shecloseshereyes,whispering,“WewereoutwhenithappenedandIdidn’twaitaround.

Hewenttothebathroom,andItookoff.”

“I’mgoingtokickhisass,”Julygrowlsalreadyhalfdrunk,andHarmonygrabsontoherankle

asshetriestocrawloutfromunderthetable.

“Pleasedon’t,”shepleas,andJuly’seyesnarrowonheroverhershoulder.
“You’renotgoingtositunderthistableandfeelsorryforyourself,”shesnaps.“Youaregoingto

gooutthereandlethimseeexactlywhathe’smissingouton.”

“Has he tried to talk to you since then?” April asks suddenly, and Harmony pulls her wide eyes

fromJulytolookather.

“No.”Sheshakesherhead.
“Sohehasn’tcalledyouatall?”April’seyesnarrowandHarmonylooksawayshrugging.
“He’scalledafewtimes,butIhaven’tanswered.”
“Hmm,”shehums,thensmileshersmilethatscreamstroubleandgrabsHarmony’shand,tugging

hertowardher.“LikeJulysaid,youarenotgoingtositunderthetablelikeaweirdo.Youaregoing
togooutthereandhavefun.”

“July didn’t call me a weirdo.” Harmony mutters under her breath as she’s dragged out behind

April.

“I don’t think tonight is going to end well for her,” Willow whispers, watching July, April, and

Harmony crawl out from under the table before looking at me, smiling. “I’m so happy for you.”
Wrappingherarmsaroundmequickly,sheleansback,bonkingherheadandgrumblingsomethingI
can’tunderstandbeforecrawlingoutbehindeveryoneelse.Lookingaroundthenowemptyspace,I
shake my head and feel a smile spread across my face. Only in my family would a serious
conversationbehadunderatableatapackedbar.

“G

THE

FUCK

downnow.”

PullingmygazefromHarmony,whoissingingalongwithmeto“KeepYourHandstoYourself,”

Ilookdownandseeared-facedHarlenglaringupather,andthennoticeDillonstandingnexttohim
withhisarmscrossedoverhischestandhislipstwitchingintoasmile.

“You’rehere,”Ishout,jumpingfromthetopofthebarandintohisarms,hearinghimgruntasI

wrapmyselfaroundhim.

“Idon’tthinkdancingonbarsissomethingyou’ddowithmewatching,”hemutters,andIgiggle,

tuckingmyfaceintohisneck.

“I wasn’t dancing. I was singing.” I lift my head to look at him then grin over his shoulder as I

watch Harlen pull a reluctant Harmony off the bar, throw her over his shoulder, and smack her ass
when she kicks her feet to be put down. My cousin may think he didn’t like the kiss but I know for
sureshe’swrong.SincethemomentHarlen’seyeslandedonHarmonytonighthe’sbeenwatchingher
likeahawk.

“Howdrunkareyou?”
MyeyesfocusbackonDillon’sandIshrug.“Drunk,butnotsodrunkI’llendupmarriedagain.”I

smile,andhemouthsthewordnutwhilecarryingmetowardthebacktable,takingaseat.“Where’s
Parker?”Iask,findingCarasittingwithJuneandEvan,chatting.

“Home with the boys, who are currently passed out after having too much fun at your parents’

house.”

“Ididn’teventhinktosearchyouforbulletwounds,”Ijoke,andhesmiles.
“Notnecessary.Itwasn’tasetup,justdinner.”
“Didyouhaveagoodtime?”Iask,andhenods.
“Itwasgood,”hesays,andIyawn,coveringmymouth.“Weshouldgosoon.”
“Oh,I’mnotreadytoleave,”Iinformhimwithashakeofmyhead,tryingtopullaway,andhe

laughs,holdingmecloser.

“Youmaynotbereadytoleave,butthebarisclosinginaboutthirtyminutes,whichmeansyou’ll

bekickedoutifyoudon’t.”

“Isitreallythatlatealready?”Iask,andhenodsagain.
“It’sreallythatlate.”
“Tonightwasfun,”Iinformhim,restingmyheadonhisshoulder,andhishandmovestotheback

ofmyneck.

“I’mglad,baby,”Ihearhimmurmur,rightbeforeIfallasleepsmiling.

AKING

SIP

of coffee, I rest the cup on my knees tucked close to my chest and stare out at the

backyard.It’sstillearlyenoughthatthesunhasn’tquitewarmedtheearth,andthedewcoveringthe
ground is making the grass look like it’s been sprinkled with glitter as the light shines down on it.
Thankfully,Idon’thaveaheadachethismorning,butIdofeelalittlebitoutofitafterstayingoutso
late.

Tilting my head back when the sliding door opens, I watch Dillon step out onto the back patio,

wearing loose sweats and a T-shirt with his hair a mess, like he’s ran his hand through it a million
timesthismorning.“I’vebeenlookingforyou.Ithoughtyou’dbeinbed.It’sstillearly,”hemutters,
bendingtokissmyforehead,andmyeyesslideclosed.

“Icouldn’tgetbacktosleepafterIwokeup.”Takingmycupofcoffeefromme,hesetsitonthe

ledgeofthegasfireplacethenpullsmeupoutofthechair.TakingtheseatIwasjustin,hetugsme
downontohimthenleansforward,grabbingthemugandhandingitbacktome.

“Whycouldn’tyougobacktosleep?”heasks,kissingthesideofmyheadoncehe’sadjustedus

both.

“Youweren’tthere,”Iadmit,restingmyheadonhisshoulder.“Thebedalwaysfeelstoobigwhen

you’renotinitwithme.”

“Sorry,baby.”Hislipstouchmyneck,makingmeshiver.“Igotaphonecallanddidn’twantto

wakeyou.”

“It’sSaturday.”Ifrown,andhisarmsaroundmetightenbriefly.
“Iknow,whichiswhyIwashopingyou’dstillbeinbedwhenIgotbacktoyou.”
“Sorry,”Imurmur,takingasipofcoffee.
“It’sokay.IjustknowI’mgoingtohavetoshareyouwitheveryonelater,soIwantedsometime

withjustyou.”

“You’realonewithmerightnow,”Ipointout,andhismouthmovestomyear.
“Yeah,butI’mnotinyourightnow.Andthat’swhereIreallywanttobe.”
“Oh,” I breathe as a shiver drifts through my body, and my thighs tighten together to ease the

suddenachethere.

Coastinghishandfrommykneetomythigh,hishandaroundmywaistglidesforwardtoreston

theundersideofmybreast,andhiswordsvibrateagainstmyear.“Ifwewerehomealonerightnow,
I’dbefuckingyou,bentoverthebackofthischairwe’resittingon.”Squirmingonhislap,feelingthe
hardridgeofhiscockpressintomyass,Ibitemyliptokeepfrommoaningoutloud.“Fuck.”His
eyesgotothewindowbehindusbrieflythencomebacktome,darkwithlust.“Areyouwetforme?”
Hisdeeplyspokenwordsslideovermyskinashishandslidesundermyshirtanddownthefrontof
myshorts.

“Yes.”Myeyesflare,andItrytoturnmyheadtoseeifanyoneisinthekitchen,buthisfreehand

grabsmyjaw,stoppingme.

“Spreadyourlegsalittle.Letmefeelhowwetyouareformyself.”
“Someone—”
“Now,”hecutsmeoff,andmylegsopeneversoslightly.Iaminstantlyrewardedwithaflickto

myswollenclit,makingmegasp.

“YouhavenoideahowbadlyIwanttoeatyourightnow,”hegroans,plungingonethickfinger

insideofme,andmybreathgetstrappedinmylungs.“Icanpracticallytasteyourhotlittlecunton
mytongue.”Hisdirtywordsvibrateagainstmyearasonefingerbecomestwoandhisthumbbegins
tocirclemyclit.“Doesthatfeelgood?”

“Yes.” I hold my coffee cup tighter, afraid I’ll spill the contents all over us, as my hips

instinctivelyrockagainsthismagicalfingers.

“You’resofuckingwet.Ifyouwerelaidoutinfrontofme,yourjuiceswouldbesoakingthebed

andmyface,”hegrowls,nippingmyneckhardenoughtosting.Closingmyeyes,mycoreclenches
aroundhisfingersandmybodystartstotieitselfupintoatightknot.“AssoonasIfinishmakingyou
come,Iwantyoutogetup,goupstairs,thengetundressedandspreadyourlegsformeonthebed.
Doyouunderstand?”hequestions,lickingupthecolumnofmythroat.

“Yes,”Ipant,ridinghisfingersthatareplunginginandoutofme.
“First, I’m going to clean you up with my mouth,” he groans as my pussy spasms. “Then, I’m

goingtofuckyouonyourhandsandkneesuntilyoucome.

“Dillon.”
“Iknow,baby.”Hisfingersspeedup,andIpraynooneiswatchingus.Thereisnowaytheywon’t

know what we are doing. “Once you come on my cock, I want you on your knees in front of me,
suckingmeoffuntilIcomedownyourthroat.”

“Yes,”Icryoutastheknotinsideofmesuddenlyunravels,andIflyapartinhisarms.Myteeth

clench,mybodyshakes,andmymindemptiesofeverythingasoneofthemostspectacularorgasms

I’ve ever had in my life rocks through me, leaving me with nothing but the feeling of him and me
together.

“You’realwayssofuckingbeautifulwhenyoucome.”Turningmyhead,Ifindhislipswithmine

andkisshimashisfingersmovefrombetweenmylegs.Pullinghismouthaway,Iwatchhisfingers
disappearbetweenhislipsandhiseyesslideclosed,onlytosnapbackopen.“Up.”

“What?”
“Up.GetyourassupstairsanddowhatItoldyoutodo.”
“Youwereserious?”Ibreatheasmylegsstarttoshake.
“Ineverjokewhenitcomestoyou.”
Bloodrushestothesurfaceofmyskin,andIquicklygetoffhislapanddropmycoffeecuptothe

edgeofthefireplace.

“Seeyouupstairs,”Imurmur,rushinginside,catchinghissmileasIgo.

“F

UCK

BABY

.”

LiftingmyeyestoDillon’sgorgeousfacelookingdownatme,Imoanaroundhiscock.Watching

his muscles flex and his jaw tighten, I feel my core convulse. He may be the one fucking into my
mouth,butI’mtheonewiththepowerrightnow.Droppingmyhandfromhisthigh,Islideitbetween
mylegs.Myclitissosensitiveandswollen;notonlydidheeatmelikehepromisedtodo,hedidit
untilIcamethreetimes,withoutgivingmeachancetorecover.

“Jesus fucking Christ. Beautiful, so fucking beautiful,” he growls, raking his hands carefully

through my hair and pulling the heavy strands back away from my face. “Are you wet again?” he
asks,andInod,keepingtherhythmofmymoutharoundhislengthandmyfingersbetweenmylegs.
“Givemeyourfingers.Letmetasteyou.”

Withawhine,Ireluctantlypullmyfingersawayfrommyclitandraisemyhand.Grabbingmy

wrist,heliftsmyfingerstohismouthandsucksthemclean.

“I should make you stop touching yourself. This should be about me getting off, not you. But I

fucking love how you look with my cock in your mouth and your fingers between your legs.”
Glidingmytonguearoundthetipofhiscock,Isuckhard,andhereleasesmywristwithasnarled,
“Fuck.”

Sliding his fingers softly through my hair once more, his head drops back, face toward the

ceiling, and his stomach muscles contract. Working him faster, I suck and lick, using my hand and
mouthinsynctobringhimclosetotheedge,andthensqueakashesuddenlypullsawayfrommeand
jerksmeupoffthegroundwithhishandsundermyarms.

As he lifts me up, my legs automatically swing around his hips and my ankles lock behind his

back as he impales me on his hard length. Walking the three steps to the closet, he opens the door,
closesitbehindus,andthenshovesmeupagainstthewall.“You.Makemecrazy,”hegrowls,finding
myclitwithhisthumbbeforepullingoutandthrustinginhard.Histhumbworkingmeoverandhis
cockthrustinginandoutsohardsendsmespiralingclosertotheedgeoncemore.Iknowthistime
whenIcometherewillbenowayformetorecover.AsIdigmynailsintohisback,heburieshisface
inmyneck.

“Comewithme,”hecommands,andIdo.Mybodytightensaroundhis,mylegsandarmsholding

himastightlyasIcanasIfallovertheedge,moaninghisnameandhearinghimgroanmineagainst
my skin as he plants himself deep inside of me. Sliding us to the ground, I keep myself attached to
him,notevenalittlereadytolethimgo.

“I love having your family here, but I can’t wait until we have the house to ourselves again,” I

whisperonceourbreathinghasreturnedtonormalandmyheartbeathassloweddown.

“Metoo,”heagrees,thenpullsmebackandsearchesmyface.“Howareyoufeeling?”
“Tired.”Ilaugh,droppingmyforeheadtohischest.“IfeellikeIcouldsleepfortherestofthe

day.”

“IwishIcouldletyousleep,butpeoplewillbehereinaboutanhour,soyouneedtoshowerand

dressbeforethen,”hemurmurs,kissingmyforehead,andIpullbackandfrownathim.

“Who’scomingover?”Iask,andhesighs.
“Pleasedon’taskamillionquest—”
“Whattheheckisgoingon,Dillon?”Iinterrupt,glaringathim,andhishandsslideupmywaist.
“Doyouloveme?”Knowingthat’satrickquestion,Ipressmylipstightlytogetherinrefusalthen

feelhishandslideuptocupmybreast.“Youbetteranswerthatwithayes.”Hepinchesmynipples,
andIjerkback,coveringmychest,glaringathimevenharder.“Tellmeyouloveme,”herepeatson
agrowl,pullingmetightlyagainsthim.

Ihiss,“YouknowIloveyou.Nowtellmewhat’sgoingon.”
“I’mnottellingyou,sostopasking.”
“D—”
“Quiet,”hebarks,takingmymouthinadeepkiss,cuttingmeoff.
Fortyminuteslater,mybodyandmindaresolostinastateofeuphoriathatIdon’tevencarethat

hetoldmetobequiet,rememberaboutpeoplecomingover,orquestionhimagainaboutdinnerashe
putsmeintheshower.

Chapter12

Dillon

CAN

’

BELIEVE

Ithoughtthiswasafuckinggoodidea.Shakingmyheadtomyself,Iwalkacrossthe

opensecondfloorlandingtothebedroomwhereIhearthesoundofwomentalkingandlaughing.It
killsmetoshareAshlyn,soIdon’tknowwhyIthoughttodaywouldbeagoodidea,orwhyIlether
momtalkmeintohavingallthegirlsovertohangoutandhelphergetready,whenIknewitwould
meanI’dgetzerotimealonewithher.LookingaroundourroomasIenter,Iscanuntilmyeyesland
on my wife sitting on a chair in front of the bed with her feet tucked under her, and Kim standing
behindher,puttingherhairupinsomekindofelaboratestyle.

I head across the wood floors toward her, and she pulls her attention from her cousins that are

sittingonthebedashereyescometome.“Hey.”Herfacesoftensasourgazesconnect.Seeingthe
happinessinhereyes,theannoyanceI’vebeenfeelingalldaywashesawayinstantly.

“Hey, baby.” I get down on my haunches at her side, rest my hand on the side of her neck, and

lowermyvoice,“I’mgoingtoridewithParkerandtheboysovertotherestaurant,andyourmomis
goingtodriveyouoveronceyou’redonegettingready.”

“Oh,IthoughtI’dberidingwithyou.”Shepouts,makingmesmile.
“Iknow,butyou’regonnabeabit,andtheboysaregettingantsy,”Ilie,runningmythumbalong

herjawbeforetuggingherchintowardmesoIcankissher.“Iwantyoutowearthis.”Ipullouta
blindfoldandsheopenshermouth,butIcutheroffbeforeshecanaskwhyorprotest.“Please.”

Staring at me, she nods, but I can tell it’s killing her not to ask the million questions swirling

aroundinherhead.“I’llseeyousoon.”

“Okay, we shouldn’t be much longer,” she murmurs, taking ahold of the edge of my suit jacket

andpullingmebacktowardher.Ifightmyself,knowingtherearepeoplewatchingusandpullaway
beforeI’mready,whenherlipshitmine.Fuck,buttodaycannotbeoversoonenough.

Saying a quick goodbye to everyone in the room, I head back downstairs, meeting Lilly in the

kitchen.“Timsentatextafewminutesago.They’llbeatthehousesoon,”ItellherassoonasI’m
close,andhereyesfillwithtearsasshenodsthenrestsherhandonmybicep.

“Thankyoufordoingthis.ThismeanseverythingtoCashandme.”
“Iwantherhappy,”Isay,tryingtoshrugoffthefeelinginmychestandgutasshelooksatme

withherchinwobbling.

“You are a good man, Dillon. We’re lucky to have you as a part of our family,” she murmurs,

gettinguponhertiptoesandplacingakissonmycheek.“I’llhaveoneofthegirlssendatextwhen
weareonourway.Hopefully,wecanpullthisoff.”

“She knows something’s up, so don’t be surprised if it doesn’t work.” I give her a small smile

thenwatchParkerandthetwinscomeintothekitchen,dressedandreadytogo.

“Itwillwork.Shemaythinksomethingisgoingon,butIguaranteeyoushe’snotthinkingshe’s

abouttogetmarried.”

“We’realreadymarried,”Imutter,andshegrins,pattingmychest.
“Yes, you are. Now go, and we’ll see you there,” she says, giving Parker and the boys a wave

beforeleavingtheroom.

“Ready?”
Lookingatmybrother,Inod.IwasreadythefirsttimeImarriedher,andI’mmorethanready

thistime.

“S

’

OUT

FRONT

,”Cashmumbles,lookingfromhiscellphonetomebeforetuckingitintothefront

pocketofhissuitpants.

“I’llheadoutbackandletthemknow.”
Lifting his chin, he heads toward the front of the house while I make my way to the backyard

whereeveryoneisnowwaiting.

Openingthedoor,Istepoutintothegrassandtakeinthepeoplemullingaround,thewhitechairs

linedupinrows,andthelargegazebodecoratedwithcolorfulflowersandwhitetulle.“She’shere,”I
informtheDJasIpasshim,andhenodsthenturnsdownthemusic,whichcausesahushtofallover
thecrowdandpeopletoimmediatelytaketheirseatslikeplanned.Withthesunsittinghighinthesky,
IstepupthetwostepsintothegazeboasParkerjoinsme.

“Iloveyou,man.IwishMomandDadcouldbehereforthis.”Hepatsmyback,andIclosemy

eyesbrieflyandturntohughim.“Don’tgetmushyandstartcrying,”hegrumbles,huggingmeback,
andIgrin,pattinghimoncemorebeforelettinghimgo.

AsIturntofacetheyardandthepeoplesittinginchairsbelow,mylungstightenasmyeyesland

onmybeautifulwifestandingattheendoftheaislewithhereyescovered.WatchingLillyuntiethe
blindfold, my breath comes out in a rush as her gaze moves over the yard and her mouth forms a
small“O”beforeoureyeslockforonebriefmomentthatseemstolastalifetime.

Hearing “Thinking Out Loud” begin to play softly in the background, I watch Michelle come

forward carrying a bouquet of white roses, placing them in Ashlyn’s shaking hands before kissing
hercheek.Ittakeseverythinginmenottorushtowardherasthetearsfillinghereyesspilloverwhen
herdadtakesherhandandwrapsitaroundhisbicepwithapat.

IthoughtnothingwouldeverbemorebeautifulthanthemomentshebecamemineinVegas,but

watchingherwalkdowntheaisletowardmewithherfacesoft,loveshininginhereyes,andacream-
coloreddressthatskimsthecurvesofherbody,IknowIwaswrong.Onceshe’safewfeetaway,I
stepdownfromthegazeboandmeetherandherdad,takingherhandheoffersme.

“Takecareofher,”Cashsays,lookingatmebeforedroppinghisgazetohisdaughterandleaning

down,kissinghercheek,whisperingsomethingthereforonlyhertohear,andlettinghergo.Leading
herbackupthesteps,Itakeherhandsinmineanddirecthertostandinfrontofmeastheofficiate
beginstospeak.

“AsI’vebeenremindedonnumerousoccasionsbyMr.Keckoverthelastfewdays,Mrs.Keckis

alreadyhiswife,sothisisnotawedding,”hejokes,andthecrowdlaughsasAshlynsmilesawatery
smileupatme.“WhenDilloncametome,heaskedthattodaybeashowofhisdevotiontohiswife.
AndamomentforhimandMrs.Kecktosharewithallofyou.”Hepatsmyshoulder.“Ibelieveyou
haveafewthingsyou’dliketosaytoyourwife.”

Noddingathim,IdropmygazeandlookintoAshlyn’seyes.
“Istandbeforeyou,ourfamily,andourfriendsandaskyou,AshlynKeck,tobeminealways,”I

say, looking into her gorgeous face, feeling her pulse beat against my fingers wrapped around her
wristsandIpullhercloser,restingmyforeheadagainsthers.“Fortherestofourlives,Iwillworkat

making you happy. In sickness, I will nurse you back to health. In health, I will encourage you to
followyourdreams.Insadness,Iwillfindawaytomakeyouhappy.Andinhappiness,Iwillbethere
toshareyourjoy.Therewillnevercomeatimewhenyouarealone,becausefortherestofourdays,
Iwillbebyyoursideasyouranchor,yourstrength,andthecarrierofyourheart,likeyouarethe
keeperofmine,”Iwhisperthelastpart,andwatchtearsfallfromhereyes.

“Oh,God,thereisnowayIcantopthat,”shesobs,andIgrin,swipingawaythetearsthathave

trekkeddownhercheeks.

“Youdon’tneedtotopit.AllIaskisthatyouloveme,baby,”Isaysoftly,watchinghereyesslide

half-mastandherfacesoftenevenmore.

“Forever,”shewhispers,droppingherforeheadtomychestbeforetiltingherfaceuptolookat

me.“TherewillneverbeadayIdon’tloveyou.TherewillneverbeatimeIdon’tchooseyou.Thank
you for giving me this.” She rests her hand over my heart and my jaw clenches. “It’s the most
beautifulgiftI’veeverreceived,andI’mhonoredyoutrustmewithprotectingit.”

“Christ.”Iblinkbackthewetnessinmyeyesandtakeherlefthandinbothofmine.“Thiswasa

symbol of our start,” I state, toying with the plain white gold band around her finger. A band I put
thereonawishthatcametrue,abandIhadnoideawouldmeaneverythingtome.ThenIreachinto
mypocketandtakeouttheringI’vebeencarryingaroundsincethemomentIpickeditup.“Andthis
is a symbol of our forever,” I murmur, sliding the four carat diamond solitaire ring on her finger
thenliftingittomylips,restingitthere.

Hereyesmovefromminetoherhandandshecovershermouth,shakingherhead.“I…Ican’t

believeyoudidallofthis.”

Holdingheragainstme,Imovemymouthtoherearandspeakonlyforhertohear,“Iknowwe

didn’thavethemosttraditionalstart,butIwantedyoutohavethismomenttolookbackon.Iwanted
youtohaveastorytotellourkidsoneday,andIneedyoutoknowhowimportantyouaretome.”
Leaning back, I swipe away the tears that are falling steadily from her eyes and watch her pull in a
deepbreathandlookaround.

“Ididn’tneedthismoment.”Shesmilessoftly,throwingherhandoutbeforerestingbothhands

againstmychest,andmyhearttripsoveritself.“SincethemomentIwokeupasyourwife,I’vehad
thousands of moments that have shown me how important me and my happiness are to you.” She
pauses,pullinginanotherdeepbreath.“Ididn’tneedthisring.”Sheholdsupherhandthengrins.“I
loveit,andI’mtotallykeepingit.”Ichuckleatthat,andthenwatchherfacesoften.“ButIdidn’tneed
it.Intheend,it’sjustaring.Mydevotiontoyoulivesinhere.”

Sheholdsherhandoverherheartthenrestsherhandsbackagainstmychestandleanscloser.“I

can’t wait to tell our kids how I married their dad in Vegas, and how the craziest thing I have ever
done in my life was also the best and most beautiful thing I ever did,” she breathes, wrapping her
arms around the back of my neck. “I love you more than I ever thought possible, and I wouldn’t
changeourstory,evenifIcould.”

Clearingmythroatthathassuddenlyclosedup,Islidemyhandsaroundthecurveofherwaist,

pullherupmybody,andtakehermouthlikenooneiswatching,hearingaloudroarmovethrough
thecrowdbelow.

EANING

BACK

AGAINST

thebar,IwatchAshlynonthedancefloortossbackherheadandlaugh,“Papa!”

as her mom’s dad swings her around in circles. Since the moment dinner finished and the music
started up, she has danced with one person after another, and the smile on her face hasn’t faltered
once.

“Isupposemygranddaughterdidallrightinmarryingyou.”Lookingdown,IsmileatAshlyn’s

Memaw.Thewomanisatinything,maybefour-eight,withlonggrayhaironherhead,andafaceI
knowIwillonedayseeonhergranddaughter.

“Thanks.”
“Don’tthankme.”Sherollshereyes,andIfighttheurgetolaugh.“I’mjustgladtoseemygirl

happy,”shemutters,pushinginnexttomethenmotioningforthebartendertocomeover.Oncehe’s
close,sheaskshimforavodkaandcranberrywithextravodka,andthensmilesashehandsittoher.

“Gran,you’renotsupposedtobedrinking.”Jaxtakesthedrinkfromherjustassheputsittoher

lips,andhernosescrunchesupindisgust.

“IfnooneknowsI’mdrinkingit,Icandrinkit,”sheinformshim,restingherhandsonherhips.
“Itdoesn’tworklikethat,Gran,andIsawyouorderitandknowyou’redrinking,soyourpointis

moot.”

“You sound like your mom,” she grumbles, then huffs before stomping off in the direction of

Lilly,whoisstandingwithCashandTrevor.

“I’mnotquitesureshelikesme,”Isay,watchinghergo,hearingJaxlaugh.
“You could commit a murder in front of all of these people, and none of them would bat an

eyelash.Trustme,you’vewoneveryoneoverwithouteventrying,”hetellsme,thenlooksoutatthe
dancefloortowherehissisterisnowdancingwithhercousinBax,whoflewinyesterdaywithher
othercousinCobi,fromMontana,wheretheyhavebeenworking.“How’sshedoing?”

“Good,she’sbeenpreoccupiedwithmybrother,hiswife,andournephewsintown,soshehasn’t

hadmuchtimetodwell.Haveyouheardanythingnew?”Iaskashemotionsforthebartendertocome
backover.

“No, nothing. And normally with a story like hers being on the news, there would at least be a

couplesolidleads,butnoonehascomeforwardwithanynewinformation.”

“DidyoulookintoIsla?”Iknowrightnowisn’texactlythetimetobetalkingaboutthisshit,but

witheverythinggoingonwehaven’thadasecondtotouchbaseinoveraweek.

“Idid.ShewasinNewYorkanddidn’tstepfootbackintoTennesseeuntildaysaftertheincident,”

he says, then pauses, asking the bartender for a beer when he finally makes his way down the bar
towardus.

“I have to be honest with you. The more time that goes by without anything else occurring, the

moremygutistellingmeitwasjustanaccident,”hemuttersunderhisbreath,smilingatsomeone
whopasses.

“Iwanttobelievethat,butI’mnotgoingtoletmyguarddown.I’dratherbeoverlycautionsthan

pissedatmyselfifsomethinghappenedagain.”

“We’reonthesamepagewiththat,especiallywiththewomenwho’veturnedupdead.”
“Haveyouheardanythingaboutthat?”
“Not much. The cops I know are keeping a tight lid on the cases since they seem to have been

committedbythesameperson,”heexplains,takingapullfromthebeerthebartenderhandshim.

“Whataboutthewomen?”
“IonlyknowwhatI’vereadinthepapers,andIimagineyou’vereadthesamethingsIhave.”
Ihadreadthepapers.Onewomanwasaknownprostitute,andtheotherwasacollegestudent.The

onlythingtheyhadincommon,asfarasIcouldtell,wasthefacttheirbodieswerefoundintownand
theywerebothfromNashville.

“Did you ever think about the rest of the men in the world when you planned this shit?” Parker

asks,breakingintoourconversation,andIraiseabrowathimasheleansacrossthebarandasksthe

bartenderforashotofwhiskey.

“Caraiscurrentlytalkingtoagroupofwomenaboutwantingustorenewourvows.First,Ididn’t

knowthatwasanactualthing.Andsecond,there’snodamnwayIcouldeverpulloffsomethinglike
this,”hewaveshishandaround,“withoutaskinghermomtohelpme,andthatshitwillneverhappen
sinceIstillrememberwhatitwaslikewhenshetookoverourfirstwedding,”hegrumbles,picking
upthedrinkthebartendersetsdowninfrontofhim,shootinghalftheglassbackbeforelookingat
meoncemorewithnarrowedeyes.

Shaking my head, I open my mouth to speak, but then look out toward the middle of the room

whentheDJcallsmynameandrequestsmetomeetmywifeonthedancefloor.

“Christ,andnowyou’regoingtodance.I’mnevergoingtolivethisdown,”Parkermutterswitha

disbelievinghuff,whichIignoreasIsetmyglassofbourbonontopofthebar.

Walking toward my wife, I watch her hold out her hand and her face light up as “A Thousand

Years” begins to play through the speakers. “Will you dance with me?” she asks, and without
answeringIpullheragainstmeassoonasI’mcloseenoughtodoso,andthenrestonehandonher
waistandtheotheronthebackofherneck.“Thisdayhasbeenamazing.Thankyou,”shewhispers,
tiltingherheadbacktolookupatme.

“You’rewelcome,baby,”Iwhisperback,placingakisstoherforeheadthenlips.
“Ican’tbelieveyougotallofmyfamilyhere.”
“Thatwasyourmom.Sheknewyou’dwanttohaveeveryoneatyourweddingifyouhadone,so

wemadeithappen.”

“YouevengotMemawandPapaonaplane,”shesaysinawe,lookingupatme,andIsmile.That

wasnoteasy,seeinghowtheyhadn’tflowninyearsandaresetintheirways,butLillyfinallytalked
themaroundafterIinsistedongettingthemfirstclassticketstomakethetripalittleeasieronbothof
them.

“I’ddoanythingforyou,”Istatesimply,andhereyesclose.Tuckingherbackagainstme,Isway

her from side to side until the song comes to an end, and then dance with her through three more
songs before the music changes to an upbeat song, and Hope comes over, shouting it’s her turn to
dancewithheraunt.Leavingherwithahot,wet,andverydeepkiss,IheadbacktothebarwhereI
spendmostoftheeveningwatchingherwithasmileonmyface,untilit’stimeforhertoleavewith
thegirlstogoout.

EARING

THE

FRONT

dooropenandclosethenthesoundofgigglingandstumblingaround,Imakemy

wayoutofthelibrarytowardthefoyerthenstandbackwithmyarmsacrossmychest,watchingCara
and Ashlyn try to shush each other as they laugh drunkenly, holding on to one another to stay
standing.Jaxtoldmehewasdroppingthemoff;Ijusthadnoideatheywereaswastedastheyare.

“Didyouguyshavefun?”Iask,andbothwomenlookatmewithwide,guiltyeyes.
“Dillon’sawake,actslobber,”Ashlynslurs,lookingatCara,whogigglesthenstumblesintoher,

almostknockingherdown.

“Youtextedandtold’imyouwerecominghometohavesess.Ofcoursehe’sawake.”
CaralaughsandIchuckle.
“Oh yeah, I forgot,” Ashlyn mumbles while kicking off one heel, letting it fly across the foyer

beforedoingthesamewiththeother.Goingtoherbeforeshecanremoveherjeanssheistryingto
takeoff,Ipickherup.Whenshetexted,Icouldn’tmakeoutonewordofit,soit’sgoodtoknowwhat

thehellshewastryingtosay.

“I’mgoingtobed,”Caraannounces,andIturnusaroundjustintimetofindhercrawlingupthe

stairsonherhandsandknees.

“Babe,seriously.”MyeyesmovetoParker,shakinghisheadfromsidetoside,lookingdownthe

stepsathiswife,whohasnowcrawledhalfwayupthestaircase.“You’rewasted.”

“I’m not wasted,” she huffs, attempting to stand, only to catch herself on the railing before she

fallsover.“Okay,maybealittle.”Shegiggles,andParkerlaughs,headingdownthestairstowardher.

“Come on, lush. Let’s get you to bed.” He scoops her up, giving me a smile and a shake of his

headashecarrieshertherestoftheway.

“Itakeityouguyshadfun?”Iask,kissingthetopofAshlyn’shead,andherheadtipsbacktolook

upatme.

“Somushfun,butImissedyou.”Shesmilesdrunkenly,rubbingmychestthenflickingmynipple

throughthethincottonofmytee.

“Let’sgetyousomewater.”Icarryherdownthehalltowardthekitchenthenfeelhermouthand

hotbreathagainstmyneck.

“Iwantsex,notwater,”shemurmurs,lickingmythroat,andmycockhardenstothepointofpain.
“I’ll tell you what. If you can stay awake after I’ve gotten you some water and aspirin, I’ll give

youwhateveryouwant.”

“Okay,”sheagreesimmediately,butbeforeI’veevengottenheruptotheroom,she’sasleepin

myarms.

Waking on a groan, my back comes off the bed when my cock slides deeper into Ashlyn’s wet

heat as she rocks against me. “Christ, baby.” My hands cup her breasts and she moans, rolling her
hips. Sliding my hands from her breasts to her back, I skim them down over her ass and push her
harderagainstmylength,anddemand,“Faster.”Ignoringme,sheliftsandfalls,slowlyrollingher
hipsoneachdownwardglide.“Faster,”Irepeat.

Heronlyresponseistoscrapehernailsdownmychestandabsthenmoveherhandsbetweenher

legs to roll her clit. Watching her on top of me, her breasts swaying from side to side, her fingers
playing between her legs, I know that if I don’t do something, I’m going to come long before she
does.“Fuck,”Isnarl,flippinghertoherbelly,liftingherhips,andimpalingherinonedeepthrust
thatbumpsagainsthercervix.

Smacking her ass hard enough to leave a mark, I watch her head fly back and listen to a loud,

breathy, “Yes!” leave her mouth. Doing the same to her other ass cheek, her walls spasm and more
wetnessspreadsovermyshaft.

“How the fuck did I get so goddamn lucky?” I growl, lifting her with a hand around her chest,

holdingherimpaledonmylengthasIturnherheadandtakehermouth,kissingherdeepandrocking
myhips.“Touchyourself.”

Whimperingagainstmylips,herhandmovestobetweenherpartedthighsandIpullhernipple,

makinghergaspandwritheagainstmeasIbegintoslowlythrustintoher.

“Dillon,I’mgoingtocome.”Herbreathywordsandherpussymilkingmycocksendmeintoa

frenzy, and without thinking, I push her face-down on the bed, smack her ass hard once more, and
come as she does, feeling lightheaded as my hips jerk when her silken walls pull every last bit of
energyIhavefrommybody.Collapsingnexttoheronthebed,Itugheragainstmychestandlisten
tousbothbreatheheavily.

“Ifellasleeplastnight,”shewhispers,andIkissthebackofherhead,smiling.
“Youdid,”Iagree,cuppingherbreast.

“Iwantedtomakeupforit.”
“Youdidthatandmore.”Ilaughintoherhairthenseehersmileassheturnstofaceme.“Howare

youfeelingthismorning?”Iask,runningmyfingersdownhercheek.

“Good,hungry.”Shegrins,andIsmile,leaningintokissher.
“Whatdoyouwanttoeat?”
“Ireallywantaglazeddoughnut…oradozenofthem.”Shelaughs,tuckingherheadundermy

chin.

“Icanmakethathappen.”
“Really?”sheasks,lookingatme,andItuckapieceofhairbehindherearandstudyherbeautiful

faceforamoment.

“WhenwillyourealizeI’ddoanythingforyou?”Iquestion,watchingherlipspartandherface

soften.

“IhopeInevergetusedtotheidea,”shemurmurs,kissingmychin,andIrollhertoherbackand

loomoverher.“Rest.I’llbebackwithdoughnutsandcoffee.”Ikissheroncemorethenrolloutof
bed.Comingoutofthebathroom,dressedandreadytogotenminuteslater,Ifindherasleepwrapped
aroundmypillow.

Studyingherforamoment,IwonderhowIendeduphere,howIfoundmywaytoher,andthen

wonder if by some strange chance my parents had something to do with it. They would have loved
Ashlynforme,andifitwerepossible,Iknowtheywouldhaveleadmetoher.Withaquickkissto
herhairandashakeofmyhead,Ileavetheroomandheaddowntomycar.

“W

HAT

’

?”Iquestionassoonasthephoneisagainstmyear.

“Where are you?” Jax barks, causing my spine to stiffen as I drive through a green light in the

middleoftown.

“Onmywayhome.Why?”Ibarkback,reactingtothefearIhearinhistone.
“Howlong’tilyou’rehome?”
“Tenminutes,why?What’sgoingon?”
“I’llseeyouthen.”Hehangsup,andmyhandsqueezesthephone.Christ,whatthefuckisgoing

on?Ijustleftthehouse.Whatthefuckcouldhavehappened?PressingAshlyn’snumber,Ilistentothe
phoneringthengotovoicemail.

“Fuck!”Iroar,pressingdownharderonthegas.AssoonIpulldownthedrivethatleadstothe

house,Ifeelbilecrawlupthebackofmythroat.“Whatthefuck?”Iwatchthehousegetcloserandsee
therearethreepolicecruisersparkedoutside,alongwithAshlyn’sparents’SUVandJax’struck.

Puttingthecarinpark,Iopenthedoorandjumpout.Runningupthestepsintothehouse,Iroar,

“Ashlyn!”feelingfearlodgeinmythroat.

“Dillon,”Lillysayssoftly,walkingtowardmedownthehallwithherarmswrappedaroundher

waist,andalookonherfacethatcausesthedoughnutIhadonthewayhometocrawlupthebackof
mythroat.

“What’sgoingon?”
“There’s…”Sheshakesherheadandasobripsfromherchestassheburiesherfaceinherhands.
Feelingmykneesgoweak,IlookbehindherwhenCashapproaches.“Tellmeshe’sokay.”
“She’sokay,butIneedyoutobecalmforher,”hesaysquietly,andInod,nothavingtheabilityto

speakorthefirstfuckingclueaboutwhat’sgoingon.Assoonasweenterthekitchen,IspotNicoand
two officers dressed in uniform near the door that leads to the patio talking to Jax, and my heart
speedsup.ScanningforAsh,Inoticetwomenwearingsuitsstandingattheislandside-by-side,and

thenfeelmylungstightenwhenmyeyesfinallyfindAshlynsittingonthestoolshealwayssitson.
Herheadishangingandherhandsareballedintofistsonthemarbleislandinfrontofher.

“Baby.”Herheadcomesupandtearsfillhereyesasshestaresatme.“Ash.”Standingabruptly,

she rushes toward me, throwing herself violently against my chest as the stool she was sitting on
crashestothegroundbehindher.Stunnedfromtheimpact,Ithinkshe’stryingtohurtme,thenrealize
she’sclawingatmelikeshewantsmetoabsorbherintomyskin.“What’sgoingon?”Iask,feeling
herbodyshakeasIwrapmyarmsaroundherandholdheragainstme.

“Sir,”oneofthesuit-wearingmensays,andIlookathim.“I’mSpecialAgentTorres,andthisis

SpecialAgentKace.We’rewiththeFBI.”Hemotionstothemanstandinglikeapitbullnexttohim,
andIliftmychininacknowledgment.“Weneedtospeakwithyou,butIthinkitwouldbebetterifyou
and Mrs. Keck got comfortable,” he tells me gently as his eyes soften on Ashlyn, who is silently
cryingagainstmychest.

Withoutaword,Iscoopherupintomyarmsandcarryheroutofthekitchenanddownthehallto

thelibrary,somewhereIalwaysfindherwhenwe’rehometogetherandshe’sdisappeared.Takinga
seat on the large sectional in the middle of the room, I adjust her on my lap, feeling anger swell
insideofmeashertearswetmyneck.Lookingaroundthelibrary,IwatchLillyandCashtakeaseat
ontheloveseatacrossfromus,andthenwatchthetwoagentsplacethemselvesonthechairsnextto
thecouch.

“Doessomeonewanttotellmewhatthefuckisgoingon,andwhythefuckmywifeiscrying?”I

askthroughmyteeth,tryingtocontrolthefuryIfeelbuildingwitheverysingleoneofhertears.

“Asyoumayknow,twoweeksago,awomanwasfoundmurderedinOaksPark,”hebegins,and

the hairs on the back of my neck stand on end. “During the police department’s investigation, they
foundevidencethatledthemtoMrs.Keck.”

“Shedidn’tfuckingmurderanyone,”Ibiteout,cuttinghimoff,andhisfacesoftens.
“No,shedidn’t,”heagreesthensitsforward,restinghiselbowstohisknees,andasks,“Doyou

knowthewebsiteDominateMe?”

Whatthefuck?
“No,” I deny truthfully, rubbing my hand down Ashlyn’s back when she buries her face farther

intomyneck.

“It’s a fetish website where men and women create profiles with their fantasies, and someone

lookingforthesamethingwillgetincontactwiththemthroughthesiteto—”

“Whatdoesthishavetodowithmywifeandthewomenmurdered?”Icuthimoffagain,while

wrappingonehandaroundthebaseofAshlyn’sneckandtheotheraroundherback,holdingheras
closetomeasIcan,needingthecontactasmuchasshedoes.

“Thepolicefoundinformationleadingthemtothesitelastnight,afteroneofthevictim’sfriends

wasquestionedandexplainedthatherfriendwasmeetingupwithamanshemetoffthewebsite.”

“Jesus.”Mybodytensesinpreparation.Iknowwhat’scoming,andIknowI’mnotgoingtolikeit.
“Duringtheinvestigationintothesite,wefoundMrs.Keckalsohasaprofileonthatsite,andthe

same man that we believe met with the murdered women was corresponding with who he believed
wasyourwife.”

“Tellmethisisafuckingjoke,”Ihiss,andheshakeshishead,rubbinghishandstogether.
“IwishIcouldtellyouthisisallamisunderstanding,butunfortunately,thatisnotthecase.Over

the last two months, there have been four murdered women found in the Nashville area. The
detectives working the cases believed they were somehow linked together, but until last night, they
didn’tknowhow.”

“Sothisguyisaserialkiller,”Ibiteout,andhelooksattheagentsittingnexttohim,gaininghis

nodbeforereturninghiseyestomine.

“Yes,webelieveso,whichiswhytheFBIisnowinvolved.”
“Whoputuptheprofileformywifeonthewebsite?”Igritout,feelingmyteethgrindtogetherat

thethoughtofherinformationbeingonasitelikethat.

“Wedonotknowatthistime.Thepersonusedadisposablee-mailandonlyexplainedwhattheir

fantasywasbeforeshuttingoffcontactwiththeassailant.”

“Whatwasthefantasy?”Iaskwithoutthinking,feelingmynostrilsflareandAshlyntense.
“Therequestwastobestalkedandraped,”hesaysquietly,andAshlyn’sbodybucksagainstmine

as I hear her mom’s muffled scream. Fighting myself from going ballistic, I hold Ashlyn tighter
againstmeandattempttosootheher.

“Pleasetellmeyouknowwhothefuckyou’relookingfor?”
“Wedon’tatthistime.Rightnow,weareworkingthecasebackward,tryingtofindoutwhohe

is.”

“Jesus fucking Christ!” I close my eyes. How the fuck can this be happening, and who the fuck

woulddothistoAshlyn?“Doesthishaveanythingtodowithsomeonetryingtorunmywifedown?”
Iask,openingmyeyestolookatthem.

“We’renotawareofthatsituation.”Hefrowns,lookingatAgentKacethenme.“Wehaven’thada

chance to be fully briefed by the investigators working the case. Our priority this morning was
gettingtoyourwife,makingsureshewasokay,andlettingyouknowyouneedtotakeprecautions
untilweapprehendedtheassailant.”

“Whatdoyousuggestwedo?Doweneedtoleavetownuntilyoufindthisguy?”
“Wedon’tknowatthispointifhe’safteryourwife,but—”
“Buthecouldbe,”Ifillintheblank,andhenods.
“Yes,hecouldbe,whichiswhywe’rehere.”
“Whoishe?”Iquestion,feelingfirecoursethroughmyveins.“Whatdoeshelooklike?Whereis

hefrom?Whatthehelldoyouknowabouthim?”

“Wepromiseyouthatassoonaswehaveasuspect,wewillcontactyou.Untilthen,weaskthat

youstayvigilant.”

“So basically, you know not one goddamn thing besides the fact he’s already murdered four

womenandcouldbeaftermywife?”

“Weunderstandthissituationisadifficultone—”
“Doyouunderstandthat?”Icuthimoff,seeingCashstandandJaxcomeintotheroomwithNico.

“Fuckme.I’msofuckingthrilledyouunderstandhowdifficultitishavingyoutellmewomenhave
beenmurderedafterbeingonawebsite,whereapersonpretendingtobemywifesetupafakeprofile
askingthatsheberaped.Andnowyouaretellingmeyouhavenofuckingsuspectsandareworking
thecasebackward.”

“Dillon.” Feeling a hand on my shoulder, I look up and see my brother standing over me with

worryinhiseyes.“Calm,man,”hesaysquietly,lookingatAshlyn,whohascurledherselfintoatight
ballagainstme.“Youneedtotakecareofyourwifeandtrustthesemendotheirjob.”

Fuck,he’sright.Meragingisn’tgoingtohelpAshlyn,whoisfreakingthefuckoutandcryingso

hard my shirt is now soaked through, but the panic sweeping over me is making it hard to think
rationally.Swallowing,Inodonceathimthenlookattheagentssittinginfrontofme.

“IfIwereyou,I’dbereactingthesamewayyouarerightnow,”AgentKaceassures,speakingfor

the first time then stands, and Agent Torres does the same. “Get a gun if you have to. Put in extra

securityifyouthinkyouneedit,buttrustmewhenItellyouthatwewillfindthisguyandburyhim
sodeephewon’tbreatheforyears.”Liftingmychinathim,hepullsoutacardfromhispocketand
handsittome.“Ifyouseeanythingoutoftheordinary,getweirdvibesfromsomeone,orjusthavea
question,call.Mycellisonthere.”

“Thanks.”
“Save the thanks for when I find this guy,” he mutters, walking out of the room with Nico

followingbehindhim.

“Likehesaid,getagun,”AgentTorresinserts,liftinghischinbeforeleavingthelibrary.Meeting

Cash’sgaze,IholdhisstarethenwatchhiseyescloseashetucksLillyagainsthischest.Seeingthe
look of devastation on both their faces, my stomach tightens and anger sweeps through me once
more.

“Iwon’tletanythinghappentoyou,”IvowagainstAshlyn’sear,feelinghernodagainstmychest,

makingmemoredeterminedthanevertokeephersafe.

Chapter13

Ashlyn

“I

REALLY

WISH

youguyscouldstaylonger,”ImurmurwithmyarmswrappedaroundCara,andmy

facetuckedintoherneck.

“Me too.” She leans back smiling, and then pulls me close once more to rock me from side to

side.“Christmaswillbeherebeforeweknowit.”Shehugsmetighter,remindingmeoftheplanswe
madeyesterdayevening.

“I’llbecountingdownthedays.”IpullawayfromherandlookatParkerasheholdshisarmsout

tome.Walkingstraighttohim,hisarmsenvelopmeandItuckmyfaceintohischest.“Thankyoufor
everything,”Iwhisperastearsstingmynose,andhisholdonmetightens.Withouthimthelastfew
days,IhavenodoubtDillonwouldstillbeinarage.AndwithoutthedistractionofCara,him,andthe
boys,Idon’tknowwhatIwouldhavedone.“Iloveyouguys,”Iblubberagainsthisshirt,thenstep
backandwipemyfaceandeyes.

“Ah,shit,stopcrying.Ican’thandletears.Askmywife,”hegrumbles,pullingmebackagainst

himasCaralaughs.

“It’strue.Tearsarehiskryptonite.”Shesmilesatmeasheletsmegowithanawkwardpatonmy

back.“Anytimehedoesn’twanttogivememyway,Iletafewtearsfallthenboom—he’sputtyinmy
hands.”

“I’mgoingtoignoreeverythingyoujustsaid.”Heglaresather,andIpressmylipstogetherto

keepfromlaughingatthem.Theybickerasmuchasmygrandparents,butalsoloveeachotherwith
thesameferocity.

“AuntAshlyn.”Turning,Iwatchtheboysruntowardme,followedbyDillon.
“Whenwecomeback,canwemakemonkeymelt?”Jordanasks,wrappinghissmallarmsaround

mywaist,andIrestmyhandonthetopofhisheadandlookdownathim.

“Absolutely.”
“CanHopecomeoverforasleepoverwhenwemakemonkeymelt?”Kenyonasks,andIlaugh,

pullinghimagainstme.

“I’msureshewouldlovethat,”Iagree,andhegrins.
“Give your uncle a hug, boys. We need to hit the road if we want to make our flight,” Parker

urges,andbothboysturntoDillonandattackhimatthesametime.WatchinghimswingJordanand
Kenyonupintohisarms,newtearsfillmyeyes.I’mgoingtomissthisoverthenextfewmonths.I’m
goingtomissthesoundofkidsinthehouse,andmissseeingDillonlookingsocontentfromhaving
hisfamilyaround.

“We’ll see you guys soon.” He hugs them both before setting them on the ground then turns to

Cara,givingherahugthatliftsheroffherfeetandmakesherlaugh.“Takecareofmybrother.”

“YouknowIwill,”shesaysashesetsheronherfeetandlooksatParker.
“If you need anything, call me and I’ll be here,” Parker assures as he and Dillon embrace,

poundingeachother ’sbackssohardthesoundbouncesoffthewallsinthefoyer.

“I’llcall,”heagrees,lettinghimgo.

Opening the door, he takes my hand in his and leads me to the edge of the porch, tucking me

under his arm as we watch the boys climb into the back seat and Parker and Cara into the front.
Givingthemawaveasthecarstartsup,IwatchCarablowmeakissthentheboyswavefrantically
outthebackwindowasthecardrivesaway.

“I’mgoingtomissthem,”Iwhisper,droppingmyheadtoDillon’sshoulder,hearinghimsighas

hisarmtightensaroundmyshoulders.

“Metoo,baby.”
“MaybeweshouldgotoChicagoforThanksgiving,”Isuggesthopefully,lookingupathim.
“That’s definitely something to think about,” he agrees, kissing my forehead before leading me

backintothehouse,whichsuddenlyfeelscoldandunwelcomingwithoutotherpeoplearoundtofill
themassivespace.

“Canwegostayatthetownhouse?”Iaskoncewe’reinthekitchen,andhiseyescometomeand

fillwithworry.Wehaven’tstayedatmyoldplaceoncesincewe’vemovedinhere,andtheonlytime
we’ve talked about it is when I mentioned putting it on the market in a few months, so I know my
requesthascaughthimoffguard.

Coming to stand before me, he rests his hands on my hips then lifts me to the island, settling

himselfbetweenmythighs.“Isthatwhatyouwant?”

“Yes… I don’t know.” I look around, wondering why I feel so out of place all of a sudden.

NothinghaschangedsinceIwassittinghereanhouragowithCaraandtheboys,butlookingaround,
itfeelsdifferent.

“What’sgoingon?”heasks,gentlytouchingmychin,andmyeyesgobacktohis.
“The house just feels too big again,” I admit, and he nods, chewing the inside of his cheek and

studyingmeforamoment.“Ignoreme.I’mbeingcrazy.”

“FindLeoandpackafewthings.”
“Areyousure?”Iquestion,andhishandsrestagainstmythighsashisfacedropsclosertomine.
“I want you to feel safe, so if staying at your old place makes you feel that way, then yes, I’m

sure.”

“Thankyou,”Iwhisper,andhenods,holdinghislipstomyforehead.
“Go find Leo. I’ll get our bags and take them up to the room.” He tilts my head back with his

fingersundermychin,toucheshislipstominesoftly,andthenhelpsmedownofftheisland.Heading
upstairs,IgotothelinenclosetLeohasbeenhidingoutinandsearchitfromtoptobottom,coming
upempty-handed,thenmovetohisotherfavoriteplacestohide.Idon’tfindhimanywhere,butthen
again,theboyshavemadeagameoutoffindinghimthelastfewdays,sohemayhavefoundanew
placetohole-upawayfromthem.

“Areyoulookingforthis?”Pullingmyheadoutfromunderneaththebed,IsmileasDillonholds

Leoouttome.

“Wherewashe?I’vebeensearchingeverywhereforhim.”
“Inthekitchen,ontopofthefridge.”HegrinsasLeohissesandattemptstojumpoutofhisarms.
“Itmustbewarmupthere.”Ilaugh,tuckinghimagainstmychestsohecan’ttakeaswipeatmeas

hehisses.“You’regettinggrumpierbytheday,sir,”Itellhim,andhehissesinresponse.

“Thatcat’sthedevil,”hemutters,watchingLeotrytoescapemyhold.
“Hejustdoesn’tloveeveryone.”
“Baby,hedoesn’tlikeanyone,notevenyou.”
“Helovesme.”Ilaughashegetshislegfreeandpawsmychin.
“Surehedoes.”Heshakeshishead,restinghishandagainstmylowerback.“Hiskennel’sinour

room.Comeonbeforeyouloseaneye.”

“So dramatic,” I mutter, letting him lead me toward the bedroom where I spend twenty minutes

getting a hissing and spitting Leo into his kennel, and then another thirty minutes packing enough
clothestolastaweek.Assoonaswe’redoneandourbagsarezipped,Itakeonelastlookaroundand
makesurewedidn’tmissanythingwemayneed.

“GetLeo,baby.I’llgetourbags,”DillonsaysasIstarttopullmysuitcaseacrossthewoodfloors.

Knowing it’s pointless to tell him I can get my own bag, I pick up Leo’s kennel and carry it
downstairstothegaragebehindhim.

“ShouldIfollowyouinmycar?”IaskasheputsourstuffinthetrunkoftheMercedesandslams

itclosed.

“No,”hepracticallybarks,andIfeelmyspinetingleandgoosebumpsbreakoutacrossmyskin

fromtheintensityofthatoneword.“Sorry,”hesoftenshisvoiceandstepstowardme,reachingout,
touchingmycheekgentlywiththetipsofhisfingers.“Idon’twantyououtofmysight.”

“It’s okay,” I assure him, breathing through the overwhelming fear in the pit of my stomach. I

knowtheworryI’mcarryingaroundlikeaweightwon’tgoawayuntilthepersonresponsibleforthe
murdersiscaught,butIhatefeelinglikeIdo.Ihatefeelingonedgeandjumpy.Ihatenotknowingif
I’mindanger,andIhatethatDillonissostressedoutaboutit,too.

“I’ll watch your alien show if you get that look off your face.” His words bring me out of my

head,andIfeelasmiletouchmymouthasIholdoutmyhandtowardhim.

“You’vegotadeal.”
“ThethingsIdoforyou,”hegrumbles,makingmelaughashetucksapieceofhairbehindmy

ear.“Comeon.”Heopensmydoor,helpingmeintothecar.Oncehe’ssureI’mbuckledin,heslams
thedoorandheadsaroundtothedriver ’sside,gettinginbehindthewheelhepressesthebuttonfor
thegaragedoorandstartsuptheengine.Thedrivetomyoldplacetakeslessthanfifteenminutes,and
as soon as Dillon pulls into my driveway and shuts the car down, I suddenly feel like Goldilocks
whenshewastryingtofindacomfortablebedtosleepin.MyhouselooksexactlyasitdideverydayI
livedinitforthelasttwoyears,onlynowitdoesn’tlooklikehomeanymore.

“Areyouokay?”hequestions,andIturnmyheadtolookathim,pullinginabreathasIdo.
“Yep,” I lie, and he searches my face, squeezing the steering wheel so tight his knuckles turn

white.

“Idon’tthinkyou’llfeelsafeanywhereuntilthisisdone.”He’sright,Iwontfeelsafeanywhere

untilthisisdoneoruntilIknowthepolicehaveasuspect.NotknowingwhoIneedtobecautiousof
iswhatismakingmecrazy.

“I’msorry.”Irestmyhandoverhisonthesteeringwheelandpryhisfingersloose,twiningthem

withmine.“I’mfine.”

“Youdon’thavetoapologizeforanything,baby.IfIhavetodrivebackandforthbetweenhouses

allnight,that’swhatI’lldo.Hell,wecangostayatyourparents’ifthat’swhatyouwant,orevenleave
town.”

“Wecanstayhere.I’llbefine,”Ireassurehimwithasmile,reachingtoopenmydoor.
“Ifyouchangeyourmind,justsaythewordandwe’llgowhereveryouwant.”Heliftsmyhandto

hismouth,placingakissonmyknuckles.

“Thankyou.”
“Anytime,babe,youknowthat.”Hisfreehandcomesupandwrapsaroundthebackofmyneck.

Forcing me to lean across the console, he lowers his voice as his eyes lock on mine and fill with
possessiveness.“YouknowIloveyou,right?”

Eventhoughitsoundslikeaquestion,Iknowitisn’t.Iknowit’sastatementandaclaim.Iamhis

andhewilltakecareofme.“Iloveyoutoo,”Isaywithoutthenormal,‘Iknow,’andhisfingersstill
linkedwithminetighten.Closingtheslightdistancebetweenus,Ibrushmylipssoftlyagainsthisthen
leanbackandsmile.“You’renotgettingoutofwatchingAncient Aliens,” I inform him, needing to
taketheintensityoutofthesituation,andhelaughslettingmego.

“I didn’t think I would be able to.” He grins, opening his door and sliding out from behind the

wheel.Openingmyowndoor,IgrabLeo’skennelfromthebackseatwhilehegetsourbagsfromthe
trunkandthenwaitforhimonthesidewalk,sinceI’mtoolazytosearchthroughthecontentsofmy
oversized purse for my house keys. “Once we’re settled, you need to tell your mom and dad that
we’restayinghere.IknowtheyhaveatendencytoshowupatthehouseandIdon’twantthemfreaked
whentheyfindwe’renotthere,”hesays,puttingthekeyinthelockbeforeopeningthedoor,andI
nod.

“I’llcallafterIreleaseLeo,”Imurmur,headingdownthehalltothelivingroomwhilehetakes

ourbagstothebedroom.SettingLeo’skennelonthecouch,Iopenthedoorandwait.“Comeon,”I
coaxashestickshisheadouttolookaround.Realizingwhereheisafteramoment,hiseyescometo
meandIswearheglaresbeforetakingofftohide.

ListeningtomystomachremindmeIhaven’teatenmuchtoday,Iwalkacrossthelivingroomto

thekitchenandopenthefridgedoor,shakingmyheadwhenIseeweonlyhaveacanofCokeanda
boxofbakingsoda.“Wehavenofood.Shouldweorderpizza,orChinese?”Ishouttowardthemouth
ofthekitchen.“Dillon?”Ipromptafteralongmoment,feelingmyhairsstandonendandmybreath
suddenlybecomechoppy.

Concentrating closely and hearing nothing, I silently move across the tile floors and open the

drawer with the knives, feeling my heart skip a beat as the metal clangs together. Listening for any
soundatall,Icarefullypulloutoneoftheknivesontop,wrapmyfistfirmlyaroundthehandle,and
pray.

“Bab—”Spinning,myarmshootsoutholdingtheknifeasahorrifiedscreamleavesthebackof

mythroat.“JesusfuckingChrist.”Dillonstumblesbackwide-eyed,lookingattheknifeinmyhand.

“Oh,God.”TheknifeclatterstothefloorasIstareathiminhorror,feelingmykneesgiveout.
“Fuck.”HescoopsmeupintohisarmsbeforeIcancrumpletothegroundandtucksmeagainst

him.

“DidI…”
“No.” He carries me toward the bedroom without another word and lays me gently on the bed,

hoveringoverme.“Whatthehellhappened?”

“I…you…I…”
Iclosemyeyesashewhispers,“Breathe,”thenopenthembackuponthethirdfullbreathI’mable

totake.

“Youdidn’tanswerme,”Ifinallygetout,andhisjawtics.
“Baby,Ididansweryou.”
“Youdidn’t,”Ideny,andhedropshisforeheadtomychest.
“Swear to God, baby, I wouldn’t play like that. I answered you.” He wouldn’t play like that; he

wouldneverdothattome.Hewouldneverpurposelyscareme,whichmeansI’mreallylosingmy
mind.

“Ithought…Oh,God,Icouldhavekilledyou.”Icovermyfaceasrealizationandpanicsetin.
“I’mfine.You’refine.Wearebothfine.”Hetucksmeagainsthim,andIsobintohischest.
“I’msosorry.”

“It’s okay.” He shushes me, palming the back of my head and keeping my face pressed into his

neck.Lyingthere,Iclingtohimuntilthetearsdryupandmystomachremindsmethatweneedtoeat.

“N

!”

Myeyesflyopenasmyheartthundersagainstmyribsandnauseaturnsinmystomach.
“No,pleaseno,”awomanscreamsoffinthedistance.Blinking,Itrygetmyeyestofocus,butmy

visionisdistortedandmyheadispounding,makingthetaskalmostimpossible.Closingmyeyes,I
shakemyheadrealizingI’mdrunk,eventhoughIdon’trememberdrinking.

“Dillon,”Icall,reachingouttowakehim,andmybloodrunscoldwhenmyhandsdon’tmove.

“Dillon?”Ijerkmyhandsagain,feelingaropebiteintomywrist.“Thisisjustadream,”Iwhisper,
swallowingdownthebileburningthebackofmythroat.Thishastobeadream.Ifellasleepinbed
withDillonaftereatingChinesefoodandwatchingthenews.IknowIdid.

Hearingadooropen,Istill,thenfeelsomethingthudagainsttheflooratmyfeet.Oh,God,wake

up,Ibeg,diggingmynailsintothepalmsofmyhands,feelingthecrescentmoonshapeofmynails
imprintintomyskin.

“Please.”
Idon’twanttodoit.Idon’twanttoopenmyeyesandhaverealitycrashdownaroundme,butthat

pleawasfulloffearanddesperation.Openingmyeyesagain,Iblink,tryingtoclearthehaze,then
feel bile crawl up the back of my throat as I look into Kim’s pain-filled eyes staring back at me.
Please,shemouths,andInoticebloodatthecornerofherlipsthenmovemygazedownhernaked
body. Fear like I have never felt in my life rips through me as I take in the bruises, welts and stab
woundscoveringhertorso.

“Oh,God,pleaseno,”Ichoke,closingmyeyes,wishingI’dwakeupbutknowingthatwillnever

happenbecausethisisn’tadream.I’mawakeinalivingnightmare.“I’llgethelp,”Ipromiseasshe
reachesouttowardme,andhereyesslideshut.Watchingherchestheaveunnaturally,myhandsstart
toshakeandmymouthdriesup.“Stayawake,”Ibeg,movingmyhandsbackandforth,tryingtoget
theropearoundmywristtoloosenenoughformetoslidefree.“Pleasestayawake,”Isob.

“Nuh-uh-uh.”
Jumping,myheadfliesupandanewwaveoffearwashesovermeasIwatchtheguyfromthe

coffeeshopstepintotheroomandclosethedoorbehindhimself.

“Icantellyourecognizeme.”Hegrins,shovinghishandsinthefrontpocketsofhisjeans.“Do

youknowhowbadlyIwantedtotakeyouthedaywemetfacetoface?Doyouknowhowharditwas
to let you go?” he asks as I lean back, trying to avoid his touch as his blood-covered fingers slide
downmycheek.

“Pleasedon’tdothis,please,justletmego.”
“NowwhywouldIdothat?”
“Youdon’twanttodothis,”Iplea,tryingtogetmyhandsfree.
“You’rewrong.Iverymuchwanttodothis.”Hesmiles,grabbingafistfulofmyhairandjerking

my head back so hard I cry out. “I thought you wanted to be dominated? I thought you wanted
someonetostalkandrapeyou.”

“That wasn’t me, I swear it wasn’t me,” I cry as his fist in my hair tightens and pulls harder,

forcing my head over the back of the chair, and pain from my recently removed stitches to shoot
throughmyscalp.

“DoyouknowwhatIdidtomyfiancéewhenIfoundoutshewasaskingmentobeather?WhenI

foundoutshewaslettingmentakeherlikeawhore?”heshouts,andIflinch,shakingmyheadagain
whiletearsfallsilentlydownmycheeks.“Igaveherwhatshewanted.Shewantedtobebeaten,soI
beatheruntilshecouldn’topenhereyes.Shewantedtobefuckedlikeaslut,soIfuckedherlikethe
slutshewas,untilshewasbleedingfromeveryholeinherbody.”Hepetsmyhair,almostgently,and
softens his voice. “You were the first profile I saw after her, the first one I responded to. At first, I
wasn’tgoingtohurtyou.Atfirst,IwasgoingtosaveyoulikeIcouldn’tsaveher.ButthenIsawyou
withhim,sawwhatyouweredoingtohimwithouthimknowing.Isawthatyouwerejustlikeher,”he
roars,andIsqueezemyeyesastightastheywillgo.

“Oh,God.”Dillon,whereareyou?Pleasebeokay.
“Godisn’tonyourside.”Hegrinsanevilgrin,andthenbitesmynecksohardIfeelmyfleshtear

whilehishandcirclesmythroat.

“Please! Stop,” I rasp, and he squeezes harder. Struggling for breath, my body shakes and stars

dancebeforemyeyes,theneverythinggoesblack.

Comingawakesuddenly,myhandsflytomythroatandIgaspforair.“Oh,God.”Ilookaround,

feelingfearconsumemeoncemoreastearsfillmyeyes.I’mstillinmynightmare.Icovermymouth
thenrealizemyhandsarefree,andIsob.

Idon’tgivemyselftimetothink.IquicklyuntiemyanklesandmovetoKim,seeingtheropethat

wasaroundmywristsisinherhand.“Kim.”Irollhertoherback,pressmyhandtoherchest,and
shakeher.“Kim,”Irepeat,butshedoesn’tmove;shedoesn’teventakeabreath.Swallowingthrough
therealizationthatshe’sdead,Idropmyheadtoherchestandfighttheurgetogatherheragainstme.

Iknowthismaybemyonlychancetogetoutofherealive.Movingtothedoor,Ipressmyearto

it.Hearingnothingontheotherside,Iputmyhandontheknob,turnit,andsayasilentprayerwhen
thedoorclicksopen.Peekingoutthesmallcrack,Ifindnothingbuthallwayanddimlight.Ducking
low,Iscootintothehall,closethedoor,andlookbothways,debatingwhatwaytohead.Idon’tknow
whereIam,butifIhadtoguessit’sanoldwarehouse.

Tugging my T-shirt down, I creep silently on my bare feet along the hall, then feel a surge of

adrenalin and hope course through my veins when I spot another door. As soon as I can reach the
knob,Iplacemyhandonthemetal,turnit,andpush,breathinginadeepbreathofcoldnightairasit
skimsacrossmyface.Openingthedooranotherinch,IwanttoscreamasitclanksandIseealarge
chainontheoutside.LookingbackdownthehalltowhereIcamefrom,IfeelmyeyeswidenasIsee
theguyheadintotheroomIjustleft.KnowingIdon’thaveachoice,Ipushthedoorasfarasitwill
go,getmyheadoutthroughthespace,andscreamasIhearhimrunningtowardme,roaring,“What
thefuck?”Gettingmyshouldersandarmsout,Iusethedoorjambtopushmyselftherestoftheway
through,andscreaminpainasmychestiscrushedashepullsonthedoor.“Youfuckingcunt!”he
snarls,tuggingmetowardhimasIkickashardasIcan,refusingtogiveupnow.

“Fuckyou!”Ikickandtwistwildly,andfinally,bysomemiracle,getfreefromhishold,falling

hardtothegroundjustoutsidethedoor.Idon’tpause.Idon’ttakeachancetolookbehindme.Irun
asfastasIcantowardthewoods,lettingthedarknessengulfmeandkeepmesafe.

Dillon

EARING

THE

NAME

TrentDenton,Iturnandwatchthesmalltelevisiononthewallacrosstheroom.A

clipofTrentbeingescortedintoapolicestationwithhishandscuffedbehindhisbackappearsonthe

screenbeforethenewscasterreappears,shufflingthepapersinherhands,speaking.“TrentDenton,an
upstandingcitizen,adoctor,andamanmanypeopleinthecommunitylookedupto,isalsotheman
policearrestedtodayforsixmurdersintheNashvilleareaoverthelastthreemonths,alongwiththe
attemptedmurderandkidnappingofaMurfreesborowoman.TheFBIwascalledintoassistthepolice
withthecaseafterfourofhisvictimswerefoundtobelinkedtogetherthroughthewebsiteDominate
Me,afetishwebsitetheaccusedusedtofindhisvictims.Tonightatelevenwewillhavemoreonthis
story,alongwiththeinterviewofTrentDenton’sstillmissingfiancée’smother.”FindingtheremoteI
turnofftheTV,notwantingtohearmore.RestingmyheadonAshlyn’sstomachandmyhandover
herchest,Iletthefeelofherheartbeatremindmeshe’sherewithmeandsafe.

“Dillon.”IliftmyheadandwatchLillywalktowardme.“Whydon’tyougoonhomeandshower,

I’llsitwithherwhileyou’regone.”

“I’mgood,”Imutter,pullingmyeyesfromherswhenAshlyn’shandrestingunderminetenses.

Sliding my hand up her chest to her cheek, her body relaxes and I study her beautiful face, making
suresheisn’thavinganotherbaddream.Forthepastfourdays,sleepforherhasbeenastruggleand
Ifinallyconvincedherafewhoursago,aftergettingwordthatTrentwasarrested,totakeasleeping
pill.Thankfully,itseemstobehelping.

“Honey,youneedtoshowerandyouneedtoeatsomething,”shesaysgently,almostpleadingly,

andmyjawclenches.

“I’mnotleavingherside.”Itrytokeepthebiteoutofmytone,butitcan’tbehelped.ThewomanI

love is lying in the hospital, having suffered from a fractured larynx, two broken ribs, and
hypothermia, after being kidnapped by a serial killer and hiding in the cold over night, wearing
nothingbuttheT-shirtshewenttobedin.

“Honey.”Lilly’shandrestslightlyonmyback.
“HetookherfromourbedandIcouldn’tdoonegoddamnthingtostophim.”
“Hedruggedyou,”sheremindsmequietly.“Hedruggedbothofyou.”
“Iwatchedhimtakeher,IwatchedhimtakeherrightfrommyarmsandIcouldn’tevenmove.”

MythroatburnsasIthinkaboutthemomentIsawhimliftingherlimpbodyfromourbed.Ithoughtit
wasabaddream.Icouldn’tmove,couldn’tspeak.Icouldonlywatchhimcarryheroutoftheroom
whileIlaytherecompletelyhelplesstodoanythingtosaveher.

“Stop,”Ihearwhisperedhoarsely,andmyheadfliesup.“Pl—ase.”Ashlyn’svoicecracksandI

reach over, grabbing her cup of water then holding the straw up to her mouth. Watching her take a
fewsips,Ipullthecupawaywhenshe’sdoneandsetitdown.

“You’re not supposed to be talking,” I remind her gently, running my hand over the top of her

head,pressingmylipstoherssoftly.

“Some—one h-as to stop yo-u from be—ating yourself up,” she croaks, patting my cheek.

Turningmyhead,Ikissherpalmthenlinkourfingerstogether.

“She’s right you know,” Lilly says quietly, walking around to Ashlyn’s other side, taking her

opposite hand. “It’s absolutely horrible what happened, but there is nothing you could have done.”
Even knowing she’s right, my mind won’t allow me to accept the fact that she is. I should have left
townwithAshlynthemomenttheFBIapproachedus.Ishouldhavetakenherawaywhereshewould
havebeensafe.“YouheardAgentTorresyesterday,TrentDentonknewwhathewasdoing.Heknew
thealarmcodesforbothyourhouses,heknewthelayoutsandyourschedules.Ihatetosayitbecause
hetookmybabyandhurther,butitwasjustamatteroftimebeforehedidwhathedid,”Lillysays,
andIwatchhereyesfillwithtearsthenwatchasshestrugglestobreathe.“IfKim’ssister…”

“Don’t.”Ashlynshakesherheadathermom.“Pl—easedon’t.”Tearsfillhereyes,andIcarefully

gatherheragainstme.Themomentshegotawayandwasfinallyabletofindhelp,shetoldthepolice
about who she thought was Kim still being there. When the police finally found the abandoned
building where Trent had taken her, the body was missing. She didn’t know at the time, none of us
knewatthetime,thatitwasactuallyKim’sidenticaltwinsister,Kelly,whowastherewithher.“S…
shesav…edme,”hervoicecracksashertearswetmyneck.

“Iknowbaby,”Isay,gentlystrokingmyhanddownherback,thenhearherinhalesharplyasshe

movestoholdmetighter.“Youneedtolaydown.Thisisn’tgoodforyourribs,”Iwhisper,placinga
kisstoherearandshenods.AdjustingherbackontothebedItakeaseatinthechairandwatchas
Cashcomesbackintotheroom,followedthistimebySageandJax.Iswear,everytimeheleaveshe
comesbackwithsomeonewhowantstocheckonherforthemselves,sincethehospitalwon’tallow
morethanafewvisitorsatatime.

“H…how’sKim?”sheasks,lookingatSageasCashcomesovertokisshercheek,andJaxwaits

todothesame.

“She’sokay,shewantedtocomeseeyoubut…”
“It…It’sokay.”Ashlyntearsuponcemoreandhisfacesoftens.“TellherIlo…loveher.”
“Iwill.”Hecomesaroundthesideofthebedandbendstokissherforehead.“Ican’tstay,Ineedto

getbacktoher,”hesayssoftly,andhereyescloseasshewhispers,

“Takecareofher.”
“Always.”Hestateswithdeterminationashestands,thenreachesovertopatmyshoulderbefore

sayingaquietgoodbyetoeveryoneandleavingtheroom.

“DidtheyfindKelly’sbodyyet?”LillyasksJaxashetakesaseatnexttome,andheshakeshis

head.

“They’re still searching, hopefully the police can convince him to tell them where he dumped

her,” he says quietly while Ashlyn’s hand around mine tightens almost painfully. “Sorry.” He looks
away,andIwatchhiseyesgetwet.Iknowhe’sthinkingexactlywhatI’mthinking.Iknowherealizes
that we could be out searching for Ashlyn’s body right now instead of sitting in a hospital room
waitingforhertorecoverenoughtogohome.

“Iloveyouall,”Ashlynwhispers,andIrunmyfingersdownhercheekthenlookathermomand

dadandJax.Wemayhavehadaroughstart,butlikefamilydoes,weworkedthroughourshitandwe
willbestrongerbecauseofit.

Ashlyn

OOKING

INTO

THE

fireinfrontofme,Iwatchtheflamesdanceinthefireplace,feelingthewarmthseep

intotheskinonmyface.Itfeelslikeittakesforeverformetogetwarm.NomatterwhatIdo,itfeels
likeaconstantchillhasburroweditswaythroughmyskin,muscle,andbone,straighttothemarrow
inside.MakingmewonderIfIwilleverbewarmagain.

Studying the flames, I think about my phone call with Agent Torres this morning. He said they

finallygottheconfessiontheyhadbeenhopingforfromTrent.

HetoldmeTrentcriedwhenheexplainedtothemhowitallstarted,howhefoundouthisfiancée

wasonthewebsiteDominateMelookingforkinkysexwhileinarelationshipwithhim.Hesaidhe
cameacrossmyprofileafterherdeathandwasplanningonscaringmeoffthesite.Butthensawme
with Dillon and thought I was just like her, so he tried to kill me then by running me over. Agent
Torressaiditwasthatmomentthatsenthimovertheedgecompletely,themomenthestartedusing

thesiteasawaytohuntforvictims.Thereallysadpartis,Trent’sfiancée’smothertoldthepolice
whenshewentmissingthatshesuspectedhimofkillingherdaughter,buttheyneverhadanyevidence
toprovehewasresponsibleforherdisappearance,letalonehermurder.Sotheywereforcedtolet
himgo,evenafterbelievinghewasguiltythemselves.

Rubbing my wrists, I close my eyes. I still have no idea why he didn’t kill me when he had the

chance.Thewhatifsareenoughtomakemecrazy.IknowhowcloseIcametodeath,andIknowthat
ifKellyhadn’tfoundthestrengthtountiemebeforeshedied,Iwouldn’tbeheretoday.Shesavedmy
life;whatevershehaddonebeforethatdidnotmatter.Herlastmomentswerespenthelpingsomeone
shedidn’tknow,andIwillforeverbegratefultoherforsavingme.

“Baby.”
Jumping,IturnmyheadonthepillowandwatchDillonwalktowardme.
“Ididn’tmeantoscareyou.”
“It’sokay.What’sup?”Iask,pullingmyfeetbacktomakeroomforhimonthecouch,butinstead

oftakingaseat,heholdsouthishandformetotake.

“Igotsomethingforyou.”
“Youdid?”
“Yeah,comeon.”Hepullsmeup,thenleadsmebythehandoutofthelibrarytowardthefront

doorthenoutside.Assoonaswe’redownthesteps,heleadsmeovertothefountain.

“Youdidn’t.”Ismile,andhisfacesoftens.
“Yousaidyouwantedtoputfishinit,soIhadyourdadandbrotherhelpmeputinthefiltration

system,andJaxjustdroppedoffthefishafewminutesago.”

“Iwasjoking.”Igrin,leaningovertheside,watchingthegoldfishswimaround,andthenseea

woodenstickontheledge.Pickingitup,Inoticealinetiedtotheend.Pullingitoutofthewater,I
gaspwhenIseemyrings.

“You…” My eyes fill with tears as he unties the rings from the line and takes my hand in his.

Feelingmyhandsshake,Iwatchhimslidebothringsbackontomyfinger.Thedaythepolicecameto
thehospitaltotellmetheygotTrent,Dillonaskedthemifhehadmyweddingringsonhim.Itwasn’t
untilthatmomentInoticedtheyweremissingandrealizedthatatsomepointhehadtakenthemfrom
me.“How?”Iswallow,studyingtheringsthatrepresentmorethanjustmebeinghiswife.

“IhadthisonesentfromthechapelwegotmarriedatinVegas.It’snotthesamering.Andthis

oneisfromthejewelerIpurchasedyourotheronefrom,”hesays,movinghisfingersfromonering
totheother.

“Thankyou.”Ileanintohim,pressingmyfaceintohischest.“Iloveyou,”Ibreathe,feelinghis

breathatthetopofmyheadthenhislipsthere.

“Thankyouforcomingbacktome,”hewhispers,andIsqueezemyeyestight.
“Iwillalwaysfindmywaybacktoyou,”Ipromise.

ALKING

OUT

thebathroom,rubbinglotionintomyhands,Iclimbintobed,andthenwatchDillon

walkoutoftheclosetaminutelater,wearingnothingbutapairofdarkblueboxersthataremolded
tohisthighslikeasecondskin.

“I’mnotgoingtomyappointmenttomorrow,”Iinformhimandhefrowns.
“Pardon?”Hegetsintobednexttomethenpullsthecoversupoverus.
“Myappointmentformybirthcontrol.I’mnotgoing.”

“Baby,”hewhispers,soundingconflicted.Iclimbontohim,straddlinghiswaist,placingmyhand

againsthissolidchest.

“Iwanttostartafamilywithyou.”
“Ithoughtyouwantedtowait,”hemurmurs,restinghishandsonmyhips,andIshakemyhead.
“Idon’twanttowaitanymore.”Irunmyhandsuphischesttorestontheundersideofhisjawand

hiseyesharden.

“He is not going to change the course of your life anymore than he already has,” he growls. I

knowhe’stalkingaboutTrent,andthathebelievesthisisbecauseofwhathappened,butitisn’t.

“He’snot.Youdid.Youmakemewantmore,”Isay,andthehardnessseepsoutofhiseyesashis

face softens. “I want to be a mom. I want to fill this monster of a house with screaming kids, and I
wanttoseeyoutuckingourbabiesintobedatnight.Icanstillhaveacareer,butthatisn’twhatIknow
willmakemehappyanymore.”

“Areyousurethat’swhatyouwant?”
“Downtomybones,Iknowitis,”Imutter,thensqueakasheflipsmetomybackandloomsover

me.

“Maybe we should start practicing, just so we know we’re good at it before it’s time to start

trying.”Hegrins,andIlaugh,tugginghimdowntome.

“Thatsoundsgood,”Iagreeagainsthismouth,smiling.

Epilogue

Oneyearlater

“B

ABY

, I’

HOME

,” I call, walking through the front door and dropping my suitcase to the ground

nexttothestairs,placingmycoatontopofit.Gainingnoreply,Ifightbacktheever-presentfearthat
livesinsideofmeandheadtowardthekitchentolookthere.

Iknowshe’shome;I’vetalkedtohereverycouplehourssinceIleftandspoketoherassoonas

my plane landed. Honestly, I didn’t want to leave her, but it couldn’t be avoided due to her current
condition.Breathinginasighofrelief,IsmilewhenIspotherlyingononeofthelawnchairswith
her feet up, and Michelle sitting next to her, rubbing her very large stomach. She’s already eight
monthsalong.Itdoesn’tseempossible,andIhavenoideawherethetimewent.Slidingthedooropen,
bothwomen’sheadsturntowardme,butI’mfocusedonmywife.

“You’rehome.”Shestartstositup,butIshakemyheadandmovetowhereshe’slying,resting

myhandonherstomachandmymouthagainsthers.

“Imissedyou,”Igrumble,andshesmiles,restingherhandonmyjawandrunningherfingers

acrossit.

“Youweregoneonenight.”
“Iknow,andIswear,withoutyou,itwashell.”
“Itwaskindofnicehavingyououtofmyhairandnotbickeringatme.”Shelaughs,andsodoes

Michelle,whoIliftmyheadtolookat.

“Hi,Michelle.”
“Hey.” She stands then leans over, kissing Ashlyn’s cheek and mine. “I’m gonna head home, so

youguyscannakedfightitout.”Shewinks,makingmechuckle.

“Bye!”AshshoutsasMichelleheadsintothehouse,leavingusalone,andthenhereyescometo

meandherhandsrestovermineonherstomach.“Wemissedyou.”

“Ithoughtyousaiditwasnicehavingmeoutofyourhair.”
“Ilied.Ihategoingtobedwithoutyou.”
“Metoo.”Ileanin,kissinghersoftly,andthenrestmylipsagainstherstomach.“Howwasmy

girl?”

“Good, active as ever. I swear she sleeps all day then keeps me up all night, dancing on my

bladder.”

“Soundslikehermama.”
“Iknow.”Shegrins,runningherfingersthroughmyhair,andthenherfacesoftensandIknow

what’scoming.“Howwaseverything?”

“ItoldyouitwasokaywhenItalkedtoyouthismorning.”
“Iknow,but—”
“Nobuts.Afterwhatthatbitchdid,afterthewaytheyreacted?Trustme,itwasn’thardtowatch

herbesentenced.”

“Okay.”Shepressesherlipstogetherasragesimmersthroughme.FindingoutIslawastheone

whoputupthefakeprofileonDominateMeforAshlynwasaslapinthefaceandakicktomygut.I
havenopityforthecunt,andIhopeshefindsoutfirsthandwhatthefuckitmeanstobesomeone’s

bitch.

“Becauseofthatselfishcunt,Ialmostlostyou.So,sorry,butIhavenofuckingsympathyforthem

orher.”

“Ididn’tsayanything,”shemutters,andIrealizeshedidn’tsayanything;I’mjuststillthatfucking

mad. Waking up drugged, and having my wife taken from my arms while I was helpless to do
anything,willforevertormentme.IhadneverfeltasmuchfearasIdidthen,andwillthankmylucky
starsifIneverfeelitagain.“Pleasegetthatlookoffyourface.I’mokay,remember?”Shetouches
myjawandIclosemyeyes.

“Iknow.”
“Good,thenhelpmeup.I’mkindofstuck.”Shelaughs,andIsmilewhilehelpingherupoffthe

chairandthenleadinghertowardthehouse.

“Areyouhungry?”
“WhenamInothungry?”
“Good point,” I mutter, watching her smile. Since almost the moment she found out she was

pregnant,shehasbeensendingmeonfoodruns,evenwakingmeinthemiddleofthenighttogoout
andgetwhatevershe’scraving.“Wheredoyouwanttoeat?”

“Mexicansoundsgoodtome.”
“Atthispoint,mydaughterisgoingtocomeoutspeakingSpanishwithasmuchtimeaswespend

eatingattheMargaritaHouse.”

“Thatwouldn’tbeabadthing.”Shelaughsagain,andherbellybouncesthenhereyeswiden.
“What?”Irushtoher,butsheslapsmeaway.
“Nothing. I’m fine.” She waves me off, but I know she’s lying. I also know she’s become more

stubbornwithpregnancy.Helpingherouttothegarageandintothecar,Idriveusacrosstowntothe
restaurantshehasbecomeobsessedwithandhelpherinside.Beforeweareeventhroughthedoor,
Maria,theowner,istherewithtwomenusandasmileonherface.

“Notmuchlonger,isit?”MariasmilesoverhershoulderatAshlyn,leadingustoourtable.
“Nope,afewmoreweeksandshe’llbehere,”Ashagrees,holdingherbellywhilescootinginto

theboothbeforeItakemyownseat.

“Wouldyoulikeyourregular?”sheasks,andAshlynnods.
“Yes,please.”
“Andyou?”
“I’llhavewhatshe’shaving,butifyoucouldbringmeaMillerwithmine,I’dbethankful.”
“I can do that,” she assures, walking off and coming back a minute later with chips and salsa, a

bottleofbeerforme,andaglassofapplejuiceforAshlyn.

“Thanks.”IliftmychinthenmovemyeyestoAshlynandseeherflinch.“What’swrong?”
“Nothing,IthinkI’mhavingmoreBraxtonHickscontractions.”
“Pardon?”Istandsuddenly,andshegrabsmyarm.
“It’sokay.Sitdown.It’snormal.”
“Howdoyouknowthey’renotrealcontractions?”Iquestionwithouttakingaseat,andsheglares

atme.

“Idon’tkno—oh,God.”Hereyestighten,andImutteracurseundermybreath,scoopherupinto

myarms,andapologizetoMaria,whoislookinglikeshemightpassoutwithworry.

“Youaresodamnstubborn,”Igrumble,glaringatmywifeanhourlaterastheanesthesiologist

leavestheroom,havingjustgivenAshherepidural.

“HowwasIsupposedtoknowIwasgoingintolaborweeksearly?”sheasksonahuff,rollingher

eyes,andmyjawtics.

“I don’t know. Maybe the contractions you had been feeling all day but somehow forgot to

mentiontomeoranyoneelse,”Ibark,standingtopacebackandforthattheendofthebed,feeling
restless.

“Stopbeinganangrybear,”sheyawns.Pullinginabreath,Imovetothebedandscootheroverto

laydownnexttoher.

“Sorry.”
“Iknowyouare.YoualwaysactlikeamadmanwhenI’minthehospital.Trustme,I’musedtoit

bynow.”

Ignoring her statement, I hold her against me as she falls asleep, keeping my eyes glued to the

monitornexttothebed.

“IhateyousofuckingmuchIhopeyourpenisfallsoff!”Ashlynscreamsasanothercontractions

hits,andIwincefromthesoundandthefeelofhernailsdiggingintomyhand.

“Breathe,baby,”Iurgehersoftlyasthedoctortellshertopushagain.
“Youfuckingbreathe!”shecries.
Ihatethis.Wearenothavinganymorekidsafterthis.NofuckingwaycanIstandtoseeherinthis

muchpaineveragain.

“Ash, just one more push and she will be here,” the doctor says, and Ash bears down hard. So

hard,herfaceturnsred.

“Holyshit.”MyheadlightensandstarsdanceinfrontofmyeyesasIwatchmydaughter ’shead,

shoulders,andthenbodyappear.

“Someonecatchhim!”Ihearsomeoneshout,andIshakeofftheshock.
“I’mokay.”Ipullinabreath,andthenwatchthedoctordropDestinytoAsh’schestandwipeher

offasshecries.

“Youdidsogood,baby.”Ikissmywife’sbrow,restingmyhandonourlittlegirl.“Sofucking

good.Lookather.She’sperfect.”

“Sheisperfect.”Herwateryeyesmeetmine,andIknowinthatmomentItrulyhaveeverything.

Ashlyn

AKING

ROLL

overinbedandsighatthesightthatgreetsme.Idon’tthinkIwillevertireofseeing

mybig,stronghusbandwithhisdaughter.Sittingupcarefully,asnottowakethem,Ismileashisbig
palmonhertinydiaper-coveredbumholdshermoreprotectivelyagainsthisbarechestasshestirs.
AsIlookatthetwoofthem,IwonderwhatmylifewouldhavebeenlikeifIdidn’twakeupmarried
toDilloninVegas.Iwasalwayshappy,butuntilhim,Ineverknewwhattruehappinessfeltlike.

“Comehere.”Myeyesflytohis,findinghimwatchingme.Reachingout,hetugsmeagainsthim

andsettlesmeagainsthissideunderhisarm.

“Perfect,”hewhispers,andhe’sright.Thisisperfect.

Dillon

Fiveyearslater

“C

SLEEP

withyouandMama?”

“No,baby,rememberyou’reabiggirlnow,biggirlssleepintheirownbeds,”Itellmybabygirl

asItuckthecoversinaroundher,silentlyprayingthisisthetime.

“Idon’twanttobeabiggirl.”
“Youwanttowearnailpolishandonlybiggirlsgettowearnailpolish,”Iremindher,watching

herbottomlippopoutmakingherlookjustlikehermom.

“CanIhavesomewater?”
“You already had water,” I remind her, since we just got back from getting water three minutes

ago.

“CanIgopotty?”Jesus,thiskiddoesn’tstop.
“Doyoureallyhavetopotty?”Iaskandsheshrugs.
“Ithinkso.”
“Okay,comeon.”Ihelpherupandleadheracrossthehalltothebathroom.“Alldone.”Shegrins

atmemischievouslyafterwashingherhandsfourtimes.

Jesus,Ilovemygirl.IloveherwitheverythingIhaveinme.Buttherearetimes,likerightnow

whenIknow hermomis inbedawake andwaitingfor me,that IwishI couldsendher awayfora
nightorthree.

“Areyouready?”
“CanIhavewater?”
“Sorry,nomorewatertonight.Tomorrowyoucanhavemore.”
“Okay, Daddy.” She holds her arms out toward me and I pick her up, feeling her heavy weight

againstmychestasIcarryherbacktobed.Tuckingherbackinforthetenthtimesinceputtingherto
bedoveranhourago,Ikissherforeheadthenstand.

“Night,baby.”Iheadforthedoorthenstopwhenhersoft,sweetvoiceasksquietly,
“Canyoureadmeanotherstory?”Turningtolookather,Iwatchhergivemethepuppydogeyes

thataremykryptonite.

Sighing,Ipickupabookoffherdeskandheadbacktowardher,watchinghersmile.
It’sgoingtobealongdamnnight.
Wakingwithmybodyaching,IcarefullyclimboutofDestiny’stinytoddlerbed,makingsurenot

towakeherthenheaddownthehalltomineandAshlyn’sroom.AssoonasIwalkthroughthedoor,I
smile. The TV’s still on and Ashlyn is asleep on her side with a box of cookies against her round
stomach, her hand still in the box where it obviously was when she fell asleep. Shaking my head, I
carefullydislodgeherhandandsettheboxonthebedsidetablebeforesettlingintobednexttoher.
“Wakeupbaby.”Ikissherearandrunmyhandoverherbreastandstomach,thenfreezeashernails
runovermyabsandourdaughterasks,

“Daddy,canIsleepwithyouandMama?”fromthedoorway.
“Christ,” I groan in frustration as Ashlyn carefully turns and sits up, giving me an apologetic

smilebeforelookingatourdaughter.

“Comeonup,baby.”Shepatsthebed,andDestinygrinsthenrunsacrosstheroomandclimbsup

nexttoher.Watchinghertuckourdaughterintoherside,Ipullbothmygirlscloseandrestmyhand
overmyson,whowillbehereinafewmonths.Holdingeverythingthatisimportant,Iclosemyeyes
andfallasleep.

UntilSage

Coming2017

’

SORRY

BUT

yoursister’sdead.

ThosewordsreplayoverandoverinmyheadwhileIwatchthecellingfanspinincircles.Ikeep

tellingmyselftogetup,toshower,tocallmyparentsbacksotheydon’tworryaboutme,butIcant
forcemyselftomove.AllIcandoisthinkaboutKelly,shewasmyidenticaltwin.Wesharedthesame
hair,thesameface,thesameeverything,downtothefrecklesacrossthebridgeofournose,andyet
withallofthatincommon,Ihatedthepersonshewas.

HearingpoundingonthedoortomyapartmentItrytositup,butIcan’tforcemyselftomove.

“Kim, open the door.” Sage. I’d know his voice anywhere. “Open the goddamn door.” He bangs
harderandnewwaveoftearsfillsmyeyes.“Kimberly,ifyoudon’topenthefuckingdoorI’mgonna
breakthemotherfuckerdown.”Heroarsmakingmejump.

“I’mfine,goaway,”Iattempttoyellback,butthewordscomeoutinawhisperthroughmydry

throatasmyheavyeyesslideclosedandIfinallygiveintothedarknesssurroundingme.

“Jesus, baby?” I hear growled through my subconscious as warm fingers rest against my neck

undermyear.Myeyesopenslowly,andIblink.“Baby,”Sagewhispers,takingaseatonmybednext
tomyhip,pushingmyhairawayfrommyfacegently.

“Kelly’sdead.”Ibreathestaringintohisseafoamgreeneyesrestingsoftlyonmyblueones.
“Iknow,”HepullsmeagainsthischestandIsobclingingtohim.

OtherbooksbythisAuthor

TheUntilSeries

UntilNovember–NOWAVAILABLE

UntilTrevor–NOWAVAILABLE

UntilLilly–NOWAVAILABLE

UntilNico–NOWAVAILABLE

SECONDCHANCEHOLIDAY–NOWAVAILABLE

UndergroundKingsSeries

Assumption–NOWAVAILABLE

Obligation–NOWAVAILABLE

Distraction–NOWAVAILABLE

UNTILHERSERIES

UNTILJULY–NOWAVAILABLE

UNTILJUNE–NOWAVAILABLE

UNTILASHLYN–NOWAVAILABLE

UNTILHIMSERIES

UNTILJAX–NOWAVAILABLE

UNTILSAGE–COMINGSOON

ShootingStarsseries

Fightingtobreathe–Nowavailable

Wideopenspaces–Nowavailable

AlphaLawCAROSE

Justified–NOWAVAILABLE

Liability–NOWAVAILABLE

Verdict–ComingSoon

Acknowledgment

FirstIwanttogivethankstoGodwithouthimnoneofthiswouldbepossible.

SecondIwanttothankmyhusbandandson.Iloveyounow,alwaysandforever.Thankyouboth

forthejoyandhappinessyoubringtomylife.

ThankyouNatforyourfriendshipandencouragement.
ThankyouRoforalwaysbeinghonestwithme.
Thankyoumytwinbeauties.ILOVEYOUGIRLS.
Thankyoumomforallyourhelpwewouldbelostwithoutyou.
ThankyouSain,youareanamazinglybeautifulfriend.
ThankyouAlyciaforyourconstantsupport.
ThankyoumyROSES.Iloveeachofyouforthesupportandencouragementyougivemedaily.
Kayla,youknowIadoreyouwoman.Thankyouforallyourhardworkandforbeinganediting

rockstarandtheotherpartofmybrainwhenIneedyoutobe.

PREMA Editing thank you for everything from your amazing advice to your hard work I love

workingwithyou.IreallylovethatIlearnsomethingnewwitheachedit.

ThankyoutomycoverdesignerandfriendSaraEirewyourdesignandphotographyskillsare

unbelievable.IlovethatyouacceptmycrazinessandthatyouknowwhatI’mlookingforevenwhenI
justhaveavagueidea.Thiscoverisasgorgeousasalltheothers.

Thank you to TRSOR you girls are always so hard working, I will forever be thankful for

everythingyoudo.LisaIloveyouwoman.

ToeveryBlogandreaderthankyoufortakingthetimetoreadandsharemybooks.Therewould

neverbeenoughinkintheworldtoacknowledgeyouallbutIwillforeverbegratefultoeachofyou.

XOXOAurora

AboutTheAuthor

NEW YORK TIMES & USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR Aurora Rose Reynolds started
writingsothattheoverthetopalphamenthatlivedinherheadwouldleaveheralone.Whenshe’snot
writingorreadingshe’sspendingherdayswithherhusbandandbeautifulson.

Formoreinformationonbooksthatareintheworksorjusttosayhello,followmeonFacebook:

facebook.com/pages/Aurora-Rose-Reynolds/474845965932269

Goodreads

goodreads.com/author/show/7215619.Aurora_Rose_Reynolds

Twitter

@Auroraroser

E-mail

Aurorashewouldlovetohearfromyou

Auroraroser@gmail.com

SignupnowforAurora’sAlpha-Mailinglistwhereyoucankeepuptodatewithwhat’sgoing

on.

http://eepurl.com/by57rz

Anddon’tforgettostopbyherwebsitetofindoutaboutnewreleases,ortoordersignedbooks.

AuroraRoseReynolds.com

Document Outline

Title Page
Copyright Page
Dedication
Table of Contents
Prologue
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
Chapter 9
Chapter 10
Chapter 11
Chapter 12
Chapter 13
Epilogue
Excerpt from Until Sage
Other books by this Author
Acknowledgment
About The Author

Wyszukiwarka

Podobne podstrony:
Until Nico by Aurora Rose Reynolds
Aurora Rose Reynolds 4 5 Second Chance Holiday
Only His – Natasha Madison, Aurora Rose Reynolds
Aurora Rose Reynolds, Rochelle Paige Infatuation
Justified Alfha Law Firm 1 Aurora Rose Reynolds
ONE LAST WISH Reynolds, Aurora Rose
Until one is committed
Hero System UNTIL Superpowers Database Volume II
September Until I die PL
Oh Yum! 10 Calista Fox Until Jake ( MWYM )
Southern Vampire 01 Dead Until Dark
Until The End Of Time
Tigers and Devils 3 Countdown until the End of the World
Until Fountain Bridge Samantha Young Eng
1 Dead Until Dark
Osho Until You Die, Discourses on the Sufi Way
Until November untnov

więcej podobnych podstron

Until Ashlyn (Until Her #3) Aurora Rose Reynolds

Document Outline