Page 51 of The Refiner

But what I ignore the most is when I drop the wipes to the floor and throw my hands around his neck. His arms immediately go around me and hold me tight against him. I don’t worry about where the sudden urge to hug him came from. I’m sure I’m lonely and just need human contact, but then again, maybe it’s because I don’t hate him like I do every other man. This man gets me. He’s patient. He’s kind, and just this once, I want to be there for him.

“Thank you,” I whisper into his neck. “I don’t think I’ve told you that, but I couldn’t have made it through this without you.” I would have died right along with Piper in that hospital bed.

His voice sounds different, thick and raspy, like he’s been asleep. “You’re stronger than you think you are.”

Oh, this man wants me to be president of his fan club.

I tighten my hold, squeezing him one last time before pulling back and pressing my lips to his cheek. I can feel his chest, his heart beating faster as I drag my hand over his heart, my lips lingering on the slight stubble of his face. His body is warm, and the rhythm of his breathing seems to bring me peace. It’s funny. I’m never at peace. Not with anyone.

Only Piper McKellan could make me feel like I belonged—like I was cherished. And here I am, soaking up the comfort from her child’s father. I don’t know if that makes me the worst sister in the world or simply human. But one thing I do know for sure is that I can’t stay here.

Astor Potter isn’t mine.

He was Piper’s, and now he’s Tatum’s.

I push against his chest, and he lets me go.

This isn’t healthy. We’re both grieving. Nothing but pain can come from this situation.

So, for the first time in my life, I behave responsibly.

“I need to go.”

Keagan

Ishould have known Astor would be a pain in my ass.

“What are they doing here?” I try smiling, but through clenched teeth, it probably looks more like I’m growling in Astor’s ear.

“They came to watch Tatum.”

“And why would they need to watch Tatum? All I asked for was a ride to Piper’s. You only need to put her in the car seat while youdrop me off.”

Astor doesn’t even bother looking at me. “We need to make funeral arrangements today. Tatum will be more comfortable here.”

“What would make her evenmorecomfortable is if she was here,with her father. Her Auntie Keys doesn’t need any help with funeral arrangements.”

“Well, her Auntie Keys doesn’t get a choice in the matter.”

I didn’t appreciate the teasing tone in his voice when he said Auntie Keys. But what really pisses me off is the fact he still won’t look at me. His gaze is laser-focused on his brothers.

“You’re not staying with me all day.” I nearly growl for real this time.

“Tell yourself whatever you need to get through this, sweetheart, but it’s happening.”

Fuck it. I’m about to kick his ass in front of his entire family. I don’t care if his brothers are arguing over something in the living room. I’ll add to the chaos. “You know what? I’m gonna—”

Astor shushes me and points to the living room as Vance’s voice grows louder.

“Leave her alone, Duke. I won’t tell you again.”

Duke stares his brother down, his jaw twitching. “This is none of your business. I wasn’t asking for your permission.”

“It’s all our business! You will destroy our entire practice if you go through with this insane idea.”

I elbow Astor in the ribs as the tension rises. “It’s probably best you stay and break this up. I’ll call you later.” I use the opportunity and step back, but I’m jerked to a stop, noticing my shirt is gripped in Astor’s fist. “Let me go,” I whisper-growl. I’m not above getting louder and interrupting this family squabble.

“No.” His voice is clipped, but his gaze is still focused on his brothers.

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