Page 47 of Irresistible

“Really? Your actions are saying something else completely.” Holding up her hands, she stopped whatever was coming out of his mouth. “I did the unthinkable. I fell in love with you.” Hearing his intake of breath told her all she needed to know. “Silly…right? Well, what can you do?” Running her hand over her dog’s head, she fortified herself. “Unfortunately, this isn’t some polite bullshit relationship. This thing is real, and it deserves respect. Either you’re in or you’re out.”

When she looked up into his eyes, she saw how he was suffering and knew his answer. “I think it’s time for you leave.”

“But…”

Waiting, she wanted to see what he had. When nothing came out of his mouth, she knew exactly what she had. Nothing. “I’ve got my security handled, so there’s nothing to worry about. You can go and not feel guilty.”

“But I wanted to be the one to take care of you.”

“Those are lovely words, but your actions are saying something else. TRG has me covered, and they can assign a bodyguard if I need it. They are in contact with Ruth’s parole officer, so we’re apprised of her movements. Nothing for you to concern yourself with.” She stood and crossed her arms over her chest. “My life got a little crazy. There is no need to get yourself tangled up in it. I’ve taken the necessary steps and I’m in good shape. I’m sorry you got yourself mixed up in the nonsense with Drew, and I hope that it doesn’t cost you too much.”

“I don’t care about my career. I care about you, and I want to be good enough.”

“I appreciate the sentiment. I, however, cannot get involved with someone who wonders if he deserves me. I’ve done that and paid the price. That’s on you, and I can’t do a thing about it.” Tilting her head, she studied him. “I’m just a regular girl who wants a regular man to spend time with. It’s not that complicated.”

Moving away from the table, she shrugged. “No harm, no foul.” She walked into the hall and waited for him to follow. When he slowly moved in her direction, she opened the door. “Take care, Brock.”

“I love you, Lilly. I always have and I always will.”

“That’s a nice sentiment.” As he walked past her, she firmed her body. The last thing she wanted to do was grab him and hug him as hard as she could. Because that’s what she wanted to do. Closing the door quietly, she locked it and watched him walk down the path. Falling in love didn’t always mean you got a happy ending. She loved him, but she wasn’t going to settle.