Page 100 of The Truth of Our Secrets

“You of all people should know not to throw away someone who loves you. That man looks at you like you’re the fucking sun in the sky,” I yell, far too upset. I’m taking my situation out on him, but it doesn’t change the fact he’s a dumbass.

The door chimes, and Madyson and Jayce step into the shop. My heart leaps at the sight of them, but I’m too keyed up to appreciate they came to see me.

“If this is an intervention, don’t bother,” Alec growls.

“I thought you had the day off.” Madyson blushes, her eyes on me. “We came to see Emmet."

Alec and Von's situation sparks terror in me. Jayce has to choose me. Choose us over fear. I’ve been spiraling since last night and the situation with Alec and Von is negative energy in my brain.

Living as someone’s dirty secret is a no-go for me. Jayce doesn’t want to be out publicly, so that means I have to stay hidden.

I let myself believe I’m important to him. I don’t know how to trust he won’t bail when it gets hard.

Their expectant expressions make me weak. It’s too much. My heart wants to fall at their feet, but my brain is too smart for that.

“Fuck it.” Turning on my heel, I stride out the door.

A few steps past the shop, Jayce’s hand lands on my shoulder. I don’t face him, but I soak in his touch.

He clears his throat. “I fucked up last night. You’re right, I panicked and made an unfair decision out of fear. I don’t intend to leave you. Ever.”

I spin around to see the truth written on his face.

“I hope you’re serious about figuring out how to handle Peter so we can have a relationship. I’m all in.” His blue eyes bore into mine. “I can’t lose you.” He steps closer but doesn’t make another move, leaving it up to me.

I wrap my arms around his waist and he does the same, lifting me a few inches off the ground.

“You look like you changed your mind. Can you forgive me?” His breath tickles my ear.

“It’s not that simple.” He inhales sharply but I continue, “But I want the three of us to be together. I’m not afraid of arguing.”

I’m shocked when Jayce kisses the life out of me. On the street. In public. Maybe I don’t have to worry about being a dirty secret.

People wolf whistle, but we ignore them. My body ignites and I melt for him.

He rests his forehead on mine. “A lot of things need to change and most of them have to do with me. You’ve taught me so much. I’m in awe of how smart you are.”

“We’re all scared of heartbreak.” I run my hands up his back, shaking off the bad energy from Alec and Von.

“It’s more than that. I’ve been afraid of public perception. It’s different since I’m not playing. I’m nervous that my fifteen minutes of fame will get an extended contract.”

“I won’t force you out, but I refuse to be the guy who has to hide,” I say honestly.

“Truthfully, I don’t think I’m a good enough actor to hide how I feel about you.” His cheeks turn pink. “I want you to come home.”

My heart bursts with emotion and my head no longer opposes the idea. I’m putting faith in his words and action, but they aren’t a magic pill to fix everything. I never thought this would be easy, so I’m not giving up.

Even my pessimistic brain knows I can’t throw him away out of fear. I’ve been terrified that Jayce will act like Alec, but that means I can’t act like Alec either. We all have to take a chance on love.

Besides, they’ve ruined me for anyone else.

“Ready to go back and tell our girl?”

“Actually, I’m going to pack up the rest of my stuff if you keep Alec busy.” I step back but let my fingers trail down his chest, causing him to shiver. He cocks his head and I laugh.

“It’s a long story. I’ll tell you later when I come over tonight.” My fingers find his belt loop. I can’t seem to let go.

Jayce hums and leans in to kiss me again. “How long until you’re off work?”

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