Page 203 of Enthrall Shadows
We hadn’t talked since.
How could it be her?
I couldn’t think straight as I stared through the window, taking in the scene that hadn’t changed. They were still holding hands, her head still resting on his shoulder.
Her daughter, Lilly, looked on, seemingly glad to see the lovers reunited. Happy her mother’s boyfriend was back in her life where he belonged.
No, not where he belonged.
I’d been naïve to believe I had any chance of competing with someone like her—a woman whose disappearance had haunted Henry for so long.
Those old sparks had finally reignited.
Tensions would have been high during their first meeting at the preserve. But after that, when the dust had settled and the words first spoken in anger had cooled, they had realized their love had never died.
If he had been mine all those years ago and I had messed up back then, getting another chance to be together would be vigorously pursued.
I could fight for him.
Reese had seemingly done just that—fought for him.
Our fledging relationship had never stood a chance.
Glad they’d not seen me, I hurried back the way I’d come, tears welling in my eyes, my chest tight with grief.
When I saw Richard’s Mercedes still parked at the curb, I let out a sob of relief.
I tapped on his window.
He lowered it to talk. “Hey. He’s not in?”
“No.”
“Hop in.”
“I’ve already had you drive me all the way out here. I’ll get an Uber.” That way I could at least hide my emotions.
“I’m not leaving you to hop in some stranger’s car.” He gestured for me to get in the Mercedes. “Let’s stop off for lunch somewhere.”
I climbed into his car and pulled on my seatbelt.
“Where do you want to eat?”
“I have period cramps. Can you take me home?” I hated lying to one of my best friends.
“Of course.” He pointed to the central divider. “Pain killers. Andrea literally has this car filled with meds for any situation.”
“She’s the best,” I said.
“I wondered why you were pale.” He reached over and gave my hand a squeeze. “These things come on fast. Let’s get you home. You need a heating pad for your tummy.”
I stared out the window so he couldn’t see my tears. “All I want is to sleep it off.”
Sleep off the memory of seeing them holding hands.
Richard navigated the car back into traffic. “I’ve got you.”
The box full of fireworks on Cameron’s desk made me uneasy. I questioned the logic in this idea—though, ironically, it had been mine.
