Page 134 of Cold As Ice

“Yeah, so they keep saying.”

“So she’s got a kid.” I nodded, and he blew out a steady breath. “Got to say I didn’t see that coming.”

“You and me both.”

“It’s not a deal breaker for you?”

“It was. At least, I thought it was.”

“And now?”

“I don’t know. I like her. Really like her, Con. Think we could have something worth exploring but—”

Fuck. How did I explain it?

“You’re not sure you can be what they need.”

“I don’t exactly have a great track record taking care of the people I care about.”

“If you’re talking about Rory, you need to let that shit go.” Connor shook his head. “She loves you, and she’s forgiven you. You were a kid, Austin. Dealing with your own shit and finding your own way.”

I wanted to heed his words, to accept my sister’s forgiveness, but it wasn’t going to be easy.

“Your past doesn’t define you,” he added. “But a little word of advice from someone who let the best thing ever to happen to him slip through his fingers once before: don’t go to her until you know what you want and what you’re prepared to do to get it.”

That was the million-dollar question, wasn’t it?

Was I ready to open myself up to that kind of risk? The potential heartache and fallout if it didn’t work out.

Just the thought of it made my palms sweat and my pulse ratchet.

But the thought ofnotseeing her again, that made me feel a different way entirely.

“She’s really under your skin, huh?” Connor flashed me a knowing grin that usually would have annoyed the hell out of me.

“Fuck you.”

“Austin’s got bit by the love bug,” he sang with a ridiculous lilt.

“Don’t start with that shit.”

“Oh, come on, humor me.”

“I’m serious, Morgan, don’t try to—”

“Hello?” Ella’s voice flitted down the hall, the familiar click of the front door echoing behind.

“In here,” he called. “Austin was just—”

I shot up from my seat. “You’re an asshole.”

“Ah, don’t be like that. You know you really love me.”

“Is everything okay?” Ella’s gaze bounced between us. “Because I can always go.”

“Like hell, you will.” He grabbed her by the waist and pulled her down on his lap, nuzzling her neck. “Good morning, Kitten.”

“And that’s my cue,” I muttered, but it lacked its usual irritation.

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