Page 191 of Love Arranged
She nods. “I know it was the last thing you wanted to do, but I think it’ll be good for the campaign.”
I take a seat beside her. Before she can protest, I pull her in before calling Daisy to take a seat on her other side.
She might let out a huff of disapproval, but the way she sinks into my side is promising.
I kiss the top of her head because I can’t resist. “Thank you. For all you’re doing to help me win. It means more to me than you’ll ever know.”
She pulls back all too soon, her face going blank. “We all benefit if you do.”
“Yeah, that’s true, but I like to think you also do it because you like me.”
“So?”
“So, it means all that much more to me.”
“Lorenzo…” she warns, but against what, I’m not entirely sure.
“Do you still like me?” I ask.
“I thought you didn’t like asking questions you already know the answer to.”
“I need to hear it,” I answer honestly.
“Why?”
“Because I’m losing my mind without you.”
“I’m right here.”
“Yes, but it’s not the same.” The knot in my stomach tightens. “I miss you.” I whisper it like a confession. “I miss you so damn much, Lily, and I didn’t think I was capable of missing someone this badly.”
“How is that even possible? I’ve seen you almost every day these last three weeks.” There is a hint of disbelief to her tone.
“Yeah, but things between us are not the same.”
She exhales slowly through her nose. “What did you expect would happen after the debate? Did you expect me to keep putting my heart on the line for someone who isn’t willing to do the same?”
“No, of course not. But I didn’t know how difficult it would be to watch you pull away.”
Her lips purse with distaste. “Don’t try to guilt-trip me.”
“I’m saying this because I’m trying to be open and honest about my feelings instead of keeping them to myself. That’s all.”
Yet you haven’t told her about your parents and Trevor yet.
I want to, but what if she thinks I’m only telling her now because I want her to forgive me?
Fuck. The thought of that happening makes my stomach turn.
“It doesn’t matter anymore. We’re done.” Her voice breaks at the end.
I should respect her boundaries, but I can’t. Not at the expense of losing her altogether.
I can see it happening slowly, right in front of my eyes, and if I don’t do something about it fast, it won’t matter whether I win or lose the election.
Because I would’ve already lost her, and the thought of that happening is unfathomable.
“If we’re done, then kiss me. Show me how unaffected you are by our connection—show me how much itdoesn’t matter,” I taunt because screw it. Let her show me since she’s so big on actions.
