Page 58 of Breaking Free

“I’m good, I guess.”

“I guessisn’t overly convincing. Are you having any pain?”

“None. I’m not sore at all.”

“Good. What are your plans for the day?”

“I have two closings scheduled. The first was at 8 a.m. What’s this about?”

“As I explained yesterday, sometimes after a scene, there are lingering effects caused by a change in your body’s neurochemicals.”

“Like endorphins?”

“Yes. Also, adrenaline and a few others that build during an intense scene. They’re a big part of why BDSM feels good. But what goes up has to come down. It can cause physical symptoms that feel like the flu, and the letdown can leave you feeling tired, sad, or anxious. It’s what we call sub drop and sometimes can last for a day or two.”

She didn’t speak for a second or two, as if processing what he said. “I don’t think I dropped. I’m feeling pretty good, actually.”

“No irritability, fatigue, or depression?”

“Maybe a little fatigue,” she said, hesitantly. “I mentioned the 8 a.m. closing. I usually don’t start until nine.” She brushed it off, adding more brightly, “Nothing a second cup of coffee won’t fix. I’m fine, Tristan. Really. But I appreciate you checking up on me.”

“I said I would.”

“I appreciate a man who keeps his promises,” she replied playfully, his cue to wrap things up.

“I’m driving. I should go.”

“Oh. Yes. Of course.”

He could hear her disappointment loud and clear, proving he was the jerk she accused him of being.

“Goodbye, Piper.”

He ended the call and dropped his phone onto the seat beside him. A second later, frustration overcame him, and he pounded the steering wheel with his fist. Maybe Axyl was right. Maybe he should see a counselor.

AS SOON AS HE SET FOOTon the porch, the screen door creaked open. Tristan braced himself for impact as a lanky nine-year-old body hurtled toward him.

“I knew you’d come!” AJ exclaimed.

Catching him easily, Tristan hugged him back when his skinny arms wrapped around his waist.

“Your team is in the playoffs, champ. I wouldn’t miss it for all the money in the world.”

The screen door creaked open once more. When he looked up, Lydia greeted him with a smile. “Hey, Tris. I wasn’t expecting you until tomorrow.”

“I hope you don’t mind. A case wrapped up early. I thought I’d get a jump start on that to-do list you mentioned the last time we talked.” He ruffled AJ’s unkempt hair. “In between games, of course.”

“I had a feeling you’d be here today. I told Mom at breakfast, but she didn’t believe me. Told you so, Mom!” AJ crowed.

“What was I thinking, not listening to the soothsayer?” she said teasingly.

“Sooth what?” the boy asked, finally releasing him to turn toward his mother. “Is that English?”

“It means someone who can tell the future. Now get out of Tristan’s way so he can come into the house.”

He did as he was told, but followed on his heels, asking excitedly, “Want to play catch? My new glove is finally broken in.”

“Sounds good,” he replied.

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