Page 90 of Yours for the Taking (Falling For A Rose)

Her heart picked up an unruly palpitation. “Why would you ask me that?”

He was quiet for longer than a second. “I’ve called and texted, and your school said you had a family emergency.”

Carla locked her jaw.

“Also, I’m still outside of the door. Did I do something I’m not aware of?”

“No. God, no.” She wouldn’t dare go with theit’s-merhetoric, but what would she say? “I’m not feeling well, and in case I’m contagious, I’d rather not let you in.”

She bit her tongue after that lie.

He cursed. “Have you been to see the doctor? This could be something we brought back from the island unknowingly.”

“Um, no. I’ve just started to feel miserable.”

Well, that was the truth.

“Please, my love, let me take care of you.”

Carla closed her eyes. She felt like shit. What if she went ahead and told him everything right then and there? She would have the upper hand, right? He would believe her, no doubt. They loved each other. They were in love. He trusted her to tell him the truth. They made a pact.

Carla nodded. That’s what she would do. She turned to face the door, removed the chain, reached for the lock, then paused, her hand opening to cover the deadbolt.

The pictures. His past. Would he believe her?

“I can’t.”

Jacob leaned into the doorjamb. “I miss you.”

She smiled. “It’s only been twenty-four hours.”

“And still, I long to hold you again.”

“You don’t make this easy.”

“I hope not, but since you are adamant, I’ll let you rest. Promise to pick up the phone when I call.”

“I promise.”

“I love you.”

Her heart palpitated, and she took in a weary breath. “I love you, too.”

They stood silent, neither wanting to remove the link they shared even beyond the barrier of the door.

“Make a doctor’s appointment, or I’m coming back with my personal MD.”

She smiled. “Pushy.”

“When I need to be.”

“It may pass. It could very well be a twenty-four-hour thing, but if I feel any worse, I promise to make an appointment.”

“Good. I’ll talk to you soon?”

“Yes.”

“Have a good day, Carla.”

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