Page 137 of Revival

Spencer walks up my sidewalk with determined strides as Lee’s truck pulls away from the curb with a roar.

“He’s coming back inside.”

“Then I’ll let you go. Tell him he’s invited to Sunday dinner, and I expect him to be there from now on.”

My lips tip despite my eyes shimmering with tears. The door creaks slowly open. “I don’t foresee that being a problem. “Good night, Momma.”

“Night baby girl. See you soon.”

“Bye.”

“Goodbye.”

I set my phone and tea on the coffee table and start to rise.

“Stay. I’m coming to you.” Spencer kicks off his shoes.

I drop heavily back into my seat. “How’d it go?”

“Good. Really good. You have nothing to worry about.”

Relief slows my nervous pulse. “You sure?”

“Think of it as the slate being wiped clean. We’re starting fresh, but there’s a layer of respect from Lee that wasn’t there before.” Spencer moves a throw pillow and settles into my couch. He tips his head back and stares at the ceiling for a moment. “Come here, Kitten.”

Turning over, I tuck my bare feet into the couch cushion and lean into his chest. “How’s your hand?”

Holding it in front of me, he rolls his knuckles. They’re still red and swollen.

“You should put ice on that again.”

“It’s fine.” The light touch of his lips against my forehead has my eyes fluttering closed.

“Hey, Spence?”

“Yeah?”

“When you bought that ticket at the auction, did you know I’d be on that trip?”

Spencer stills behind me. He picks up my hand and runs his thumb over my knuckles. “I did.”

“How?”

“You remember the night of the benefit?”

“Sort of. That was the day I found Sebastian balls deep in his assistant. I was late and pretty pissed off.”

He tucks a lock of hair behind my ear. “Then I’m not sure if you know, but they basically had two auctions. Some items were only open until that night, but there were others that ran online for about two weeks. Mostly nontangible items like timeshares and other experiences.”

“Okay, I think I’m following.”

“The ticket was put up later as part of the online portion. Saw it. Thought it sounded interesting. Then disregarded it. Until I was on one of my rare outings into town, and I heard your name mentioned. Your ex was encouraging his friends to up their bids by telling them they’d probably get to sleep with you.” He shakes his head in disgust. “Joking or not, their fantasies were vile.”

A shudder runs through my muscles. “Ugh. I don’t want to know.”

“Shoulda hit him harder,” Spencer says beneath his breath. “And I probably should have told someone to pull the auction, but I’ve never really been one to pass up an opportunity.”

I snuggle deeper into his side. “I’m glad you didn’t.”

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