Page 139 of How You See Me
“I need to get home.”
Her gaze lifts from the ground to me. “You’re not going to California?”
“I am, but I can’t afford any more detours.”
“I’ll ask Grant to check on my room. Maybe it can be ready early. If not, I’ll crash with him.”
Standing, I take her in my arms, hating this distance already forming between us. “I’m sorry.”
“For what? Ava and your family need you.” She wipes away a tear as it falls. “Come on. We’re wasting time.”
She moves toward the van, but I catch her hand. “Josie.”
Stepping up to me, she places her palm on my cheek. “It’s okay, Hayes.”
But I’m not.
And the truth echoes in her eyes.
Neither of us are okay.
Chapter 29
Josie
Hayes is quiet on the four-hour drive to Las Vegas, only responding to questions. I can’t tell if he’s upset or simply anxious to get home. Or maybe it’s something else.
I don’t blame him. He’s worried about Ava and missing out on precious time with her. And since Raidyn told him to come, he finally feels wanted. I just wish Ava didn’t have to go through this. That her entire family didn’t have to suffer along with her.
To keep my fears from spiraling over Hayes’ imminent departure and wondering if he’ll feel the same about us when we’re apart—a possibility I can’t and don’t want to consider—I text Grant to let him know I’ll be arrivingsooner than planned.
Me:Where are you?
Grant:My amazing, lush hotel room in Vegas. The bed is to die for. Where are you?
Me:On my way. Should be there soon. Can you check if they have a room available?
Grant:What happened?
Me:Circumstances changed.
Grant:Does this have anything to do with your hot chauffer?
Me:He needs to get home. Can you check theroom for me?
Grant:I guess. Even though I just got comfy.
Me:Thanks. Make sure you put some clothes on first.
Grant:Party pooper. I practically spent the last week naked. Clothes suck.
Me:Does that mean your elopement and honeymoon was everything you dreamed?
Grant:And more.
Me:Eric there?
Grant:No. He needed to get back to work, but he plans to fly out before theshow ends.
