Page 33 of Make Me Trust Again
“No,yousaid it, and I just decided to ignore it.”
My lips fall open in surprise at his brash words. He starts to move around me. Without thinking, I extend my hand, my fingers wrapping around his forearm.
Electricity crackles at the point of contact, making me suck in a sharp breath.
Chase’s head snaps up, those hazel eyes darkening as he just stares at me. I swallow hard, my mouth feeling dry, but I push the words out, “I’m paying rent.”
Uncurling my fingers, I pull the money from my wallet and quickly count it. I’m still not sure he won’t just leave. “Fifteen hundred. The old Merrick’s place was twelve, and this one is much nicer.”
“Rose…” His eyes narrow, the muscle in his jaw twitching, but he makes no attempt to take the money.
“Chase.” I tip my chin up, refusing to back down. “You either take it, or we’re leaving.”
“Mom!” Kyle calls out from the room.
“You should go.”
So he can sneak out without taking the money? I think not.
“As soon as you take the money.”
A deep, annoyed rumble comes from his chest as he grinds his teeth together.
Finally, after what seems like forever, he takes the money from me. “Fine.”
The corner of my mouth twitches in amusement at his irritation, but I quickly school my features as he takes the money and shoves it into his back pocket. However, apparently, I’m not quick enough because the lines between his brows turn deeper.
“Mom!”
This time, the voice is louder, so I turn around to find Kyle standing in the doorway and waving me over.Come! You have to see this.
“Coming. Just give me a minute.”
Hurry.
He dashes back inside the room, and I can’t help but chuckle at his excitement.
“I’ve been summoned.”
When I turn around, Chase is already going toward the door, and I can feel a pang of disappointment.
What did you expect? For him to stay around and keep you company?
It’s irrational. It’s not like John was around much. As a matter of fact, in those last months before I left, I preferred it when it was just Kyle and me. At least then I didn’t have to walk on eggshells.
“Chase.”
His steps falter, and for a moment, I think he’ll ignore me, but he stops and glances over his shoulder.
“Thank you. For all of this.”
He nods silently, and then he’s gone. My gaze stays locked on that spot for a few seconds longer before I turn around and go to the room Kyle disappeared into, only to come to a stop when I find it empty.
Did I get the wrong room? Where is?—
“Mom, look up!” Kyle’s giggles echo in the space as I do what he asked.
My stomach tightens with nerves as the panic sets in at the sight of him sitting at the top of what looks like a little loft, making me realize I missed the stairs hooked on the wall.
