Page 30 of The No Falling Rule
He doesn’t push. Instead, he walks me to the door. And although that’s exactly what I asked for, I’m screaming inside:Ask me to stay. I don’t want to leave you.
With a small wave, I head toward the elevator. The doors close, and I let out a shaky breath, trying to calm the wild mix of nerves and want swirling through me.
I tell myself it’s fine—that I’ll see him tomorrow. That this isn’t the end.
Still, as I step out into the quiet night, I can’t shake the feeling that something in his eyes shifted before I turned away—something protective and entirely for me.
Chapter 10
Diego
Last night, after Mia left, I did a quick search online forCarly Martinez, DVM. I didn’t like the way Mia walked out—she looked embarrassed, almost defeated. I know it’s not my place to get between sisters, but I figured Carly might be willing to share a few details about their Christmas traditions. From what Mia’s told me, that’s something she misses. And I’m determined to give her everything her heart desires.
“Good morning,” I say as Carly opens the door.
She gives me a once-over, a smirk playing on her lips. “Morning, Diego.” She steps aside so I can come in. “Does she know you’re here?”
I shake my head. “She didn’t text me back last night.”
“That’s probably on me.” Carly grimaces as we walk toward the dining area. “We had a conversation, and Mia didn’t take it the way I’d hoped.”
Can shebeany more cryptic? I know technically it’s not my business, but when it comes to Mia, everything feels like my business. And if Mia looks as exhausted as Carly does, then my girl had a rough night.
That thought alone makes my blood boil.
“I’d like to check on her,” I say, lifting my full hands—one holding a bouquet of red flowers, the other a large coffee.
“Of course. Let me knock for you.” Carly leads the way down the hall. “Mia, are you awake?”
“Leave me alone,” Mia grumbles, her voice thick with sleep and irritation. Who knew you could still sound mad while half-asleep?
“Mia, it’s me.”
Silence.
Then the sound of movement—rustled sheets and feet hitting the floor. Then the door opens.
“Hey,” she says, smiling sleepily.
God, she’s gorgeous—hair a wild mess, eyes still heavy with sleep. The flimsy tank top clings to her in all the right ways—no fucking bra. Her pebbled nipples—I need to think about something else; right now, my dick is getting ideas, and we’re not there yet.
Down boy.
“Hey yourself,” I manage, lifting the coffee and flowers like proof of good intentions.
“Diego,” she says, stretching my name, her eyes beaming with pure joy.
“Do you think you’re up for a date before getting ready for the wedding?” I ask, holding my breath. I didn’t prepare myself for a no.
She glances at her sister with pleading eyes.
“Oh, yes. Of course. I’m volunteering again today,” Carly says in a chirpy tone that only makes me angrier.
Is she that oblivious? Her sister’s anxious at the thought of leaving her alone, and she’s answering like everything’s fine?
Fuck this.
“You’re welcome to join us at the wedding,” I blurt out. I haven’t checked with my niece, but the caterers always make extra food. One more person won’t be a problem.
