Page 89 of The Truth of Our Secrets

For the first time since I met him, I can’t read his expression, but I push the words out.

“Jayce’s father treated him the same and I don’t think Jayce knew he deserved better. I should never have gotten involved with them because it was a toxic mess. But in my stupid mind, I thought I could help Jayce and change Peter. All I did was complicate Jayce’s life and now he’ll be forced to put his sex life on record for this divorce. It’s all my fault.” I hang my head, reeling from the admission of our deception.

Emmet’s hand covers mine reassuringly, giving me hope.

“Jayce loves you. He chose you instead of an arrogant, small man. You helped him.” His thumb runs over the back of my hand.

I nod and blow out a breath.

“What can we do? Did Peter leave anything here? Do friends have pictures of the three of you together to disprove his theory?”

“No.” I sigh. “I had a roommate, but she didn’t know about Jayce because I didn’t tell anyone. Technically, he was married and if anyone sold the story, Jayce could’ve been outed. Hockey isn’t exactly LBGTQ friendly.”

“It’s getting better.” He takes my palm in both of his. “What do you need right now?”

“A crystal ball to tell me what to do.” I tie my hair back and look him in the eye.

“There she is.” Emmet strokes my cheeks with his fingertips. “We can finish dinner or take a bath.”

My phone rings and I jump to connect with Jayce.

I’ve never understood the statement “looking green” until now.

“My lawyer advised me to talk to the Enforcers’ PR department. I called and told them my divorce is about to get ugly. They were very sympathetic. Then I told them I’m not divorcing you but a man named Peter. I’m flying home tomorrow afternoon to meet with the GM.”

“Oh my God! I’m so, so sorry.” He’s too far away and all I can do is touch the screen instead of him.

“It’s not your fault, Baby Girl. I honestly thought he’d be ready to end our marriage.”

“He’s spiteful and he’ll drag you through the press to embarrass you. He can’t handle you didn’t choose him.” It’s not fair.

“He’s a pick me girl,” Emmet says.

“The very worst pick me,” I agree.

Jayce runs his fingers through his hair. “I should watch film, but I’m not sure I have a job.”

“They can’t fire you for being bi.” Emmet’s indignant.

“No, but there’s a morality clause and if I bring bad press to the organization, they have the option to end my employment. And even if Peter doesn’t contact the press, he’ll file a counterclaim for the divorce in New York. The gossip sites will pounce.” His head hangs in defeat.

“Can I stay on the phone with you guys all night?” he asks his knees.

“Sure, J-Bear. Use that unlimited plan,” Emmet says sarcastically.

He’s been more understanding than I would be. We are liars, full of drama.

Chapter thirty-one

Emmet

My head’s a mess. From our conversation last night, I understand why Jayce calls Madyson his wife. It’s his way of claiming her as his first priority when he can’t legally do it.

I have the morning off, so I’m poking around the office that Peter used to use. This room is nothing like the others in their apartment. It’s a dull beige, with nondescript bookshelves and a desk. It lacks personality. No artwork or hockey memorabilia. Boring.

I don’t actually think I’m going to find anything, but I can’t do nothing. Keeping busy helps me process last night’s bombshells.

My stomach knots at the thought of being angry with them for lying.

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