Page 55 of Sizzling Desire

I stay silent because I know he’s right.

Trevor watches me closely. “So, what are you going to do?”

I let out a slow breath, gaze locked on the water. “Give her some space.”

Hudson raises an eyebrow. “And then what?”

I reel my line in, the rhythm grounding me. “And then?” I repeat, more to myself than them.

And then…I’ll find her. I’ll make her talk to me. I’ll figure out what the hell she’s hiding, and I’ll remind her that running doesn’t mean she gets to leave me behind. Not now. Not ever. She’s mine. Even if she doesn’t know it yet.

Ian leans back. “That’s why you agreed to go out with us?”

I glance at him.

He lifts a brow. “You need the distraction.”

Hudson grins, nudging me with his elbow. “See? We’re good for something.”

I huff out a laugh, but it’s short-lived.

Trevor reels in his line, eyes sharp. “You’re gonna go after her, right?”

I glance out at the water, my grip tightening around the rod.

Because there’s only one answer.

Hell yes.

Hudson interrupts my thoughts with an exaggerated sigh. “Alright, enough of the brooding. Let’s talk about something that actually matters.”

Trevor kicks back and props his feet up on the cooler. “Like how Kane is single-handedly ruining the vibe on this boat?”

Ian smirks as he reels in his line. “I was gonna say fishing, but yeah, that too.”

Hudson nods solemnly. “It’s tragic, really.”

I glare at all of them. “You’re all assholes.”

Trevor grins. “And yet, here we are. The only people willing to deal with your shit.”

Declan casts his line, watching the water like he actually gives a damn about catching something. “Speaking of dealing with shit, did anyone check the weather before dragging myass out here? Because if we get stuck in a storm, I’m throwing Ian overboard first.”

Ian scoffs. “Why me?”

Declan shrugs. “You’re the smallest. Less dead weight.”

“Asshole.”

Hudson chuckles. “Relax, princess. We’re clear skies all day.”

Chapter 16

Grace

Ishift on my feet, glancing out the window, watching for Kate’s car like it’s a lifeline. The note I left Kane sits on the counter, mocking me. The coward’s way out, I know. Running instead of facing him, instead of admitting the truth. But what the hell was I supposed to do? Look him in the eye after this morning, after the way he wrecked me in every conceivable way? I can’t admit the truth to him if I’m not ready to admit the truth to my own self.

No. I need time. I need to breathe. I need to make sure the baby is okay and going to my first doctor’s appointment is the best excuse to get out of here.

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