Page 136 of Three Reckless Words

You could chew the thick silence between us.

I’m panting, I realize.

I’m getting fuckingwindedover this, my shoulders tight with stress.

“Sit down, darlin’. I didn’t mean to wind you up.”

Grumbling, I drop back in my seat and lean back, the wood creaking under my weight. It’s been a long time since I’ve been this pissed.

I already regret half the shit I said, sure.

Especially about Winnie Emberly.

It’s almost enough to make me forget she’s still in the house until she comes back in the room.

She flashes us a shy smile, tucking her hair shyly behind her ear.

It isn’t fair.

It’s cruel that she looks so gorgeous I could feast my eyes on that pretty face all day. Before I met her, I didn’t think I had a ‘type.’

Now, I do.

Her.

Every little detail from the soft freckles dusting her cheeks to her maddening hips to the way she laughs like a song.

“Winnie,” Mom says with relief—probably because she didn’t walk in a split second earlier. “I was worried you’d gotten lost, hon.”

Winnie’s face splits into a wide, buttery smile as she retakes her seat.

“It’s a big house. You almost need a map.” That’s all she says.

When she glances at me, her smile looks strained, like she’s struggling to keep it in place. It doesn’t quite reach her eyes.

That’s the first hint I’ve fucked up royally.

When she doesn’t look at me again, I know beyond all doubt.

17

BEE-FORE YOU GO (WINNIE)

We’re not dating and we will never be anything more.

Archer’s ‘never’ echoes in my head for the rest of the visit.

When his mother asks if I want dessert—one of Juniper Rory’s famous creations—I remember the way he told her nothing wouldeverhappen between us.

Now I know what it feels like to get shot and have shrapnel lodged deep in your flesh.

When we retire to the living room with coffee after dinner—because that’s what rich people do—I replay his words.

Never.

Never.

Never anything more.

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