Page 106 of Only Ever You

It’s so confusing.

And I’m so angry at her for the guilt and pain she’s caused Deacon. She was at fault—no one else. But to dump all that on her teenage son?

I didn’t think it was possible to hate her even more than I already did.

After picking up my phone, I dial Lucas.

“Pip. How’s it going?” He sounds so happy, and I bite my bottom lip knowing that what I’m about to ask him will kill that mood.

“I’m okay.”

“Deacon making a pain in the arse of himself?”

Why? Why does he still sound happy?

My brother has been my biggest cheerleader lately, but he doesn’t sound remotely bothered that the man who broke my heart is trying to work his way back into my life.

“Not really. But he told me something today, and I need to talk to you about it.”

“Ahhhh.” His tone drops. “What did he tell you?”

“That his mother abused you. Why didn’t you say anything?”

He pauses, and I hold in a breath. Everything was so messed up back then, but this is a whole other level.

“It took me a long time to admit it to myself. She groomed me. Things were going on for a long time before we were caught.”

Tears well in my eyes. “Oh, Lucas. I’m so sorry.”

“You weren’t to know. I didn’t tell anyone. The only reason I told Deacon was because you two belong together and that woman has done enough damage to all of us.”

I let out a sigh. “I’m so unsure about letting him back in.”

“I know you are. And whatever you decide to do, I’m behind you. Got that, little sis?”

For a moment, I close my eyes. We might have had our differences in the past, but I know my family loves me. And my brother is my biggest cheerleader. “Got it.”

“Be happy, Pippa. That’s all I want for you. And I’m here whenever you need me.”

I swipe away the tears that have fallen down my cheeks. “I love you, Lucas.”

“Love you too, my little pain in the arse.”

I let out a snort. “Some things never change.”

“You know, in the past I might have given you shit, but I wouldn’t swap you with anyone. And I’m sorry I didn’t tell you that more.”

“I think I always knew. There’s no one else I’d want for a brother, either.”

He chuckles. “I know that’s not always been true. Go get some sleep and take care of yourself. That niece or nephew of mine needs you to rest. Have you told him?”

Blowing out a breath, I snuggle the phone even closer to my ear. “Not yet. I need to know he wants me for me.”

“That’s fair. Call me if you need me for anything.”

“I will.”

“Goodnight, Pippa.”

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