Page 179 of Delicate Storm

PAIGE

Easton’s brows furrow as he watches Isaac grab Dad’s hand and walk away, but he doesn’t ask me to explain and I have no doubt it’s because he trusts me. Still, I feel the need to tell him. “Dad was with me today and he helped Isaac when he was scared. I think he’s still a little nervous and feels like Dad will protect him.”

Easton hisses as his face drops. “And he thinks I can’t? Because I wasn’t there?”

“No, not at all. He clung to you like a lifeline the second you walked in. You know him; it’s just going to take time.”

“Tell me what happened.Please. I need to know everything. Isaac hasn’t said a word. Is he okay? Is he hurt?”

“He’s not hurt and hewillbe okay, I promise. He’s just a little shaken.”

“From what? I feel sick, Paige. I knew I shouldn’t have played. I—”

“You were where you were supposed to be. Sit down and I’ll explain everything.”

Easton nods before he sits on Dad’s couch, his eyes boring into mine. My chest tightens because I have no doubt this is going to hurt, but he needs to know.

“So, after you called…”

My heart races as I hang up from Easton and pack Isaac’s bag, ready for the game, making sure to keep a warm smile on my face. Meanwhile, the panic in Easton’s voice runs on repeat in my mind, as do his words.

“Macy’s on her way to our apartment, and something is off. She’s more determined to take Isaac than usual.”

“What do you want me to do?”

“I’ve spoken to Luke. Can you get Isaac to the game? Amelia will look after him.”

“Do you want me to stay with him?”

“No, I want you to stay with your dad. You have your own problems to deal with.”

“East, you and Isaac are my priority.”

“I know. But—” He trails off and I panic.

“But what?”

“But your name has been released to the media in line with Mikkleson's arrest.”

Jesus. That was fast. “And you’re worried I’ll bring unwanted media attention to Isaac?” My stomach knots as I once again let him down.

“No.” Easton's conviction cuts into my self-loathing. “I’m worried aboutyou. I’m worried about youandIsaac, and this is the only way I can protect you both.”

“God, I’m sorry, Easton. If—”

“No ifs. We’ll work this out. I promise, but… Fuck. What am I doing? Isaac needs me. I’m going to talk to Coach. I’ll—”

Now it’s my turn to say no. “I’m going to hang up and pack Isaac’s bag. He’s going to love watching you play in the suite. He knows them, right?”

“He does. Mom took him to one of my games and they watched from the same suite.”

“Then you have nothing to worry about. I’ll have him there as soon as possible. He knows you have a game today. He may only be three but he’s so smart, East. I think it’s best if we keep things relatively normal. I told him we were going to watch the game. He’s just watching it live.”

Easton sighs, and I picture him running a hand through his already mussed hair. “You’re right. Thank you.”

“Don’t stress about us. We’ve got this. Okay?”

“Thanks, Paige. I love you.”

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