Page 67 of A Sudden Romance

How she longed to be that young again when all her problems dissolved as soon as she stepped into this shed with Dad. They’d attempt to build a door that took them forever to finish. Even if he didn’t have time for creative projects, he’d always loved hanging out here, and she’d always told him all her doubts, dreams, and everything else on her mind.

Burying her head on her knees, she squeezed her eyes tight to fill her mind with fond memories of her and Dad planning a project. She wouldn’t let Julia’s negativity consume her. No. She shuddered.

The door creaked. She stilled and held her breath. Nobody knew she was here unless her brothers had watched her leave the house.

Okay, twice in the past, Sabastian had followed her to the door and asked if she was okay or needed tea. When the door closed, she turned her head. Sabastian.

CHAPTER 15

Sabastian always remained a silent observer in the Stone family until it was necessary for him to talk. The last hour had been a challenge. Julia’s outburst had set him on edge. He’d never been angry to the extent of seeing red everywhere. He’d better never have to see Iris rein in her temper while Julia shredded her in front of their family.

After Iris left, all the siblings got after Julia. When she had no remorse, his patience vanished.

“Julia!” His voice rose as he sprang to his feet, surprising everyone—even himself. The room fell quiet, and his jaw clenched. Inhaling sharply, he grappled for control. He dared not say something he’d later regret. “You need to apologize to your sister.”

Julia’s eyes widened, but she remained speechless like everyone else.

With them in shock, he left the room and stopped by the kitchen to grab a package of Iris’s favorite gummy bears. He wasn’t a creep, but he knew her habits and where she’d be. Especially when he walked toward the workshop and glimpsed light illuminating the wooden blinds.

At the shop, concern overwhelmed him, and he forgot to knock, something he only realized now.

Seeing Iris hunched over on the end of the bench, he wanted to die.

Iris didn’t hunch. She barreled through life with an exuberance and optimism that brightened every room she entered.

She lifted her head and craned her neck. “Sabas–tian?”

Her shaky voice tore at him, and his heart thundered against his ribs.

She cleared her throat. No doubt, she’d been crying.

“Do you want me to leave?” Maybe he shouldn’t have intruded.

“Please stay.” She breathed out as if pouring life into his lungs. She wanted him to stay!

He walked to the bench and slid next to her. As he draped his arm around her, she melted into him, leaning her head on his shoulder. He kissed the top of her head, inhaling the sweet lemony scent of her hair. “Are you okay, sweetheart?”

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