Page 149 of Love Me

“Hey, this situation is making us all paranoid.”

She lets out a deep sigh. “Yes, I hate when feelings hinder rationality.”

“They went through a lot.”

“Well, I doubt any of them were made to believe she killed her parents.”

“What if she’s alive…”

After so many years of captivity, that leaves scars behind. The thought strangles my vocal cords. Mia hugs me, and I hug her back tightly, needing comfort.

I remain alone, deep in my thoughts, when Blake steps inside my room as I peel my shirt off. I cover my chest with my hands.

“Blake, knock.”

“Sorry, but this can’t wait.”

“What is it with you?”

“When Kaden falls asleep, I’ll wait for you in my car.”

“Cryptic much?”

“Celine, this is not a joke.”

Clarity stretches in my head. Blake stopped drinking. His sober side is serious, detached, and even a bit grumpy.

“Fine, I…”

“I know you don’t want to lie, but it’s the only way.”

My heart twists at breaking the promise I made. I swallow the gallon of guilt.

“This better be a life or death situation.”

“It is,” he says, slipping out of my room.

I’m freshly out of the shower when I feel Kaden’s hands glide down my skin.

“What took you so long?” I sound like he makes me, greedy.

“Just checked in with Bailey.”

“She’s great at pretending.”

I turn in his arms, but I can’t keep eye contact. Split between two promises, I have no clue what the MO is for this type of situation.

“What is it?”

“Just tired.”

Yes, dig yourself deeper. Here I am doing something I would hate if he did the same thing.

I will confess later. Now, I just want to feel him inside of me, and forget the world around me for a bit. And he never disappoints.

***

Hyperaware, I watch the door crack open and Blake’s eyes seeking mine.

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