Page 40 of Mercy

"I... I need some air," I stammer, already turning away.

As I hurry toward the exit, I can feel Tor's eyes on me.

Part of me wants to turn back, to lose myself in his arms again.

But the larger part, the part that's still healing, still scared, keeps me moving forward.

I know we’ve said we’re falling for each other, but it was in the heat of the moment.

God, I push the doors open and revel in the cool night air, trying to calm my racing heart.

What am I doing?

What the fuck do I want?

Do I want to stay or do I want to go?

I don’t have a fucking clue.

I’m so confused.

Hell, let’s face it, I’m more confused than I’ve been in my fucking life.

I'm leaning against the rough wooden exterior of the clubhouse, eyes closed, when I hear footsteps approaching.

"Meghan?" Charm's voice cuts through the muffled bass from inside. "You okay?"

I open my eyes to see her concerned face. "Yeah, just needed a breather."

She nods, understanding in her eyes. "Listen, I hate to ask, but could you do me a favor? Gwen's not feeling great, and I was wondering if you could run to CVS for some Dramamine or ginger lozenges?"

I hesitate, glancing back at the clubhouse.

Part of me wants to go back inside, to apologize to Tor.

But another part, the part that's still raw and unsure, latches onto this excuse.

"Sure," I say, perhaps a bit too quickly. "I only had one beer tonight, so I'm good to drive."

"You're a lifesaver," Charm says, relief evident in her voice. "I'd go myself, but..." She trails off, swaying slightly.

"No worries," I assure her. "I could use the fresh air anyway."

As I fish my keys out of my pocket, I hear the clubhouse door open again.

Tor's deep voice carries across the parking lot. "Everything all right? I can drive you if you need."

I turn to see him, concern etched on his face.

For a moment, I'm tempted to say yes, to spend more time with him.

But the memory of our dance, of the intensity in his eyes, makes me pause.

"It's okay," I say, forcing a smile. "I just have to go grab some stuff for Gwen. I’ll be back in a flash."

As I slide into my Nissan Altima, I catch a glimpse of Tor in the rearview mirror.

He's watching me, a mix of worry and something else—disappointment?—on his face.

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