Page 115 of The Apple Tree

“Might be time to take something for the pain,” Fred suggested.

“Makes me too drowsy,” Kyle said before drinking the entire glass of water.

“I think resting is a good idea,” Fred replied, narrowing his eyes.

“I have a child. Sleeping during the day isn’t a good idea. I don’t need to close my eyes to rest.”

“Well, as soon as Josh wakes, we’re taking off.” Anne put her coffee mug into the dishwasher.

I wanted to slowly back away and run out the front door. The tension was thick.

“Thanks for visiting. He’s enjoyed having you here,” Kyle said.

“I fear our visit is what caused your accident,” Fred said. “Had we not visited, I wouldn’t have suggested Peter and I go hunting with you.”

“Bones heal.” Kyle set his glass on the counter.

“Let’s finish packing, honey.” Fred pushed back in his chair. “Josh should be up soon.”

Anne followed him to the stairs.

I waited a few seconds before risking a glance in Kyle’s direction.

“Eve,” he said.

That was it. Just my name accompanied by an indistinguishable look.

Was he angry that I was there?

Waiting for me to explain myself?

Expecting an apology for being his poor decision?

“Mr. Collins,” I said, keeping a neutral expression.

His head slowly cocked to the side. “Are you done pouting?”

“You’re an asshole.”

“Maybe.”

“You think I act like a child, but let’s remember that I’m eighteen. You’re stubbornly refusing help from your family. You’re twenty-eight. You have a son. You should know better. So what’s your excuse?”

“I’m not stubbornly refusing anything. I simply don’t need their help.”

“Are you sure? Because last I heard, you’ve been makingpoor decisions.”

“I was referencing the past. You took it personally and ran off before I could explain.”

“Oh, that’s right. I’m not a poor decision. I’m the woman you’re testing—trying to decide if I’m worth the trouble that our relationship will cause.”

“It’s not just me, Eve.”

I shrugged. “Josh loves me. Anne and Fred thought he loved them, but last night, it was me who he wanted when you couldn’t put him to bed. You don’t have an issue with kicking your family out. So what is it? My family? The teachers at the school? Are you secretly embarrassed to be with me? I get it. I’m ten years younger. Devil’s Head thrives on gossip. Just stop lying to me.”

“Fine. Tell them about us when they come back downstairs,” he said.

“Me?” I narrowed my eyes. “Why me?”

---