Page 48 of My Silver Lining

“So, did she study abroad?” I asked.

“Yep. But they admitted their feelings or something like that, and they talked daily that semester and have been together ever since.” He handed me a strawberry, before popping one into his mouth, as well. “How about you? The rock star tainted all men for you?”

“I just realized at some point that my life was revolving around a very selfish man. I wasn’t giving my business the attention it deserved at that time because I was being pulled in every direction. I have goals that I want to achieve, and I don’t want to be resentful for giving them up because my partner doesn’t support me, you know? So, I’m committed to My Silver Lining and growing my company. I date, or I did before I made up this whole relationship, but at this time in my life, I prefer to keep it casual.”

He nodded. “I get that. You mentioned that you hadn’t been with a man for a while, is that because of your ex?”

“Beckett has a ton of addiction issues, so we didn’t even have sex the last six months that we were together. And before that, it wasn’t great. It hadn’t been great for a long time. But we had this history because we dated all through college, and I think I felt this need to save him in a way, if that makes sense.”

“Explain,” he said, handing me back my bag of gummy bears as if he was pleased with the amount I’d eaten.

“When he started touring with the band and his fame grew, so did his problems. That was when I started trying to save him. He’d guilt me about not being there because I was building my company, so I’d neglect the things that were important to me to help him. And then the sex was awful because he was always wasted. He was sloppy, and I didn’t enjoy it. But I didn’t want to rock the boat when we only had a weekend together every coupleof weeks. And weeks turned into months. And then one day, I woke up, and I was done. I just wanted out of it, and I didn’t care how uncomfortable he’d make me. But it hasn’t been easy, and I do feel bad because my family has been embarrassed by it.”

“Stop apologizing for something that you have no control over. You can’t control people from your past or your present. You dated a guy who was obviously a good guy in the beginning, and then he got famous, and he changed. It’s not your job to fix him. The only one I feel bad for is you. You’re the one who got the short end of the stick. And he’s a fucking moron for letting you go.”

I sucked in a breath. I was so used to being judged for dating Beckett and being dragged into the media. But Rafe was right.

I didn’t owe anyone an apology.

Well, aside from myself.

thirteen

. . .

Rafe

We got home latelast night, and I actually missed Lulu after I’d gone to the guesthouse. I was used to her being snarky or frantic about putting on a show or vulnerable like she was on the boat.

This woman. Man, she was multifaceted in every way.

I enjoyed her family, aside from Barron, Charlotte, and Hunter.

My phone vibrated for the hundredth time, and I rubbed my eyes and rolled over in bed to grab my phone.

Easton

Holy fuck. Has anyone been on the internet this morning?

Axel

I work on a ranch. I see horses long before I check the internet.

Clark

I had a game last night. I was actually trying to get some sleep, but my phone kept vibrating. Thanks for that, fuckers.

Archer

I’m making Melody breakfast, and I just survived getting her hair into two buns because Missy Lowell wears two buns. It’s been a morning over here.

Bridger

I’m guessing you’re referencing our now-famous brother?

Easton

Of course, he isn’t answering. I’d drive over there, but it’s snowing like a bitch this morning.

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