Page 61 of Beneath the Scars
“What?”
“Fuck, Adalaide. I feel like an asshole, but would you be willing to stay with me while he’s staying at your house? I know it’s irrational and it has nothing to do with you, but something about that guy rubs me the wrong way and I just…I would feel more comfortable if you stayed with me while he’s here.”
Addie’s eyes sparkle with mirth. “Are you jealous?”
“Yes,” I say petulantly. When Addie giggles, I narrow my eyes at her. “My feelings are no laughing matter. Don’t think I won’t turn you over my knee for your insolence.”
“You already know how much I’d enjoy that.”
Heat floods my body, threatening to undo me in front of our whole family. “Damn right I do. Maybe I’ll do it anyway just to see my handprints on your ass again.” That was a fucking sight, and every time I think of it, I get hard.
“You promise?”
“Fuck, Trouble. You’re going to be the death of me.”
Addie grins, happy as a clam to have this strong of a holdover me. “Back to your concern. First, I would love to stay with you whether Zane is here or not; however, are you sure you’re up for me sleeping next to you?”
“I…honestly don’t know, but I need you in my bed again, Trouble.”
“Then I’ll be there.”
Chapter 33
Addie
Istand on the edge of the driveway as Zane parks his beat-up truck behind mine. He gets out, his shoulders stooped, a defeated expression on his face.
I hold my arms out to him, giving him permission to sink into my hug. He holds on to me, letting out a deep breath before pulling away.
“Thank you for offering me a place to stay. I swear I won’t take advantage of your generosity. I just need a little time to figure out my next move.”
“You can stay as long as you need to, Zane. I’ve already checked with my parents, and they’d love to have you.” We walk arm in arm to the backyard. “Are you ready to meet the whole gang?”
He huffs out a laugh, running his fingers through his dark hair. “Not even close.”
“Caro’s not here, unfortunately, but Ryan and Michael are, so at least you’ll know some people.”
“One of thosepeoplehates my guts. I don’t think he counts.”
“He doesn’t hate you, he’s just protective. Maybe this is your chance to get to know each other better.”
He hums. “Maybe.”
“Zane!” Dad calls out. “Come grab a plate!”
We walk to the table where Aunt Natalie has all the food laid out. For a second, Zane just stares, until I nudge him toward the plates. He shakes his head before taking small portions of a couple of dishes.
“We’ve all eaten, so take as much as you want.”
“Thanks. I haven’t felt up to eating much lately, so I figured I’d start small.”
“I’m really sorry life has kicked you in the pants recently.”
Zane shrugs as he nibbles on a roll. “It is what it is. There’s nothing I can do about it now.”
“Fair. Hopefully, we can help ease some of the burden to let your brain focus on other things now.”
He wraps an arm around my shoulders in a side hug. “You’re an amazing friend, Addie. I have no idea what I would’ve done without you.”
