Page 88 of Fighting Fate

Luke left us for a spontaneous date at The Southern Way, I found myself alone with Miles, a first for that summer.

Miles' soft cough captures my attention, pulling me from my reverie. I place the photos gently in my lap and pivot toward him. Our gazes lock, igniting a subtle warmth in my cheeks. His eyes hold a spark of amusement as he observes me.

"Enjoying the stroll down memory lane?" he teases.

I giggle, unable to contain my joy. "I love this picture of us," I admit with an easy smile.

He takes the photo, eyes lingering on it. "One of my best summers," he says, a hint of nostalgia in his voice.

Curious, I ask, "Because of the beach?"

He shakes his head, his nonchalance not fooling me. I lean in, almost as if to catch every word. "No, because of you."

"Me?" I look at him, searching for confirmation in his eyes.

He chuckles, the laughter carrying a note of nervousness yet undeniably charming. "Yeah, that summer? When Luke ditched us for that girl he met at The Southern Way?"

I nod in acknowledgment. "Our first time flying solo, wasn't it? And what did we decide to do with that freedom?"

Before he can continue, I interject, my tone light and teasing, "Read."

He laughs, a genuine, full-bodied chuckle. "Yep, you wanted to read to me."

A smile blooms across my face, reflecting the memories sparkling in his eyes. "I really did that, didn't I?" My lip catches between my teeth, and his eyes soften, a glimmer of desire shining through, undoubtedly making my panties wet again. Not that they had much opportunity to dry, considering our situation at the lake and the incredible climax he led me to.

He chuckles again, this time more softly, brushing a strand of hair behind my ear with such gentleness. "Yeah, you did. And it wasn't just cute, it was...peaceful. No one's ever done that for me before," he shares, his voice infused with a mix of warmth and sincere gratitude.

I give him a shove, telling myself it's to keep things light. Because the way he's looking at me, the gentle touch on my face, it's getting too intense. It's definitely not an excuse to feel his chest against me. But then he grabs my arms, pulling me closer, his breath hot against my cheek. Right then, all I can think about is closing that last bit of distance between us.

But I hold back, not wanting to rush whatever's unfolding between us. Clearing my throat, Miles' eyes narrow, but he leans back slightly, giving me some space.

"So, are you going to share what's been happening with you?" I inquire.

He attempts to maintain a composed facade. "I'm not sure what you're referring to."

I move to sit across from him. "Come on, Sunshine. I know something's off." He looks away, that nervous habit of his a dead giveaway. There's a silence, his fingers running through his hair in a move he just mirrored on me.

He sighs. "It's nothing. Just school and practice, you know?"

But I'm not buying it. I've known Miles long enough to see there's more. I came here to find out what's up, and I'm not leaving without answers.

"I know you better than that," I say lightly. "Come on, spill."

He chuckles, a bit strained, but it's a start. Humor's our way of easing tension, and it's working its magic.

His eyes find mine. "When did you get so good at reading me?"

I shrug playfully. "I've always been good at it."

He shakes his head, a small smile on his lips. As I'm about to speak, I decide against it and instead hold his hand, offering silent support.

He looks down. "Can you keep a secret?"

A pang hits me. What's so heavy that he's this hesitant? I refrain from pushing, offering a pinky promise instead. His pinky links with mine. He starts to pull away, but I keep our hands together, giving him the space to open up in his own time.

"Honestly, I am stressed," he finally says, sounding exhausted.

I squeeze his hand reassuringly, showing him he's not alone.

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