Page 145 of Cruel Steps

“Too long. I plan to remind you how good we feel together at home.”

I licked my lips. “Then what are you waiting for?”

He groaned, kissed me quickly, and then unlocked Hope’s car. It was weird being inside it, the reminder of her stealing some of my arousal.

“What’s wrong?” Holden asked as we walked in the back door twenty minutes later.

“Nothing.”

“You’re back to having that face.”

“What face?” I asked, unlocking the door and disengaging the security system. Once we were both inside, I set it back to armed.

“You look like a pissed-off Cabbage Patch.”

“I’m sorry, what?” I blinked.

“You got the sweet face, but your eyes say you’re gonna fuck things up. So, what are you about to fuck up, Wildcat?”

“Nothing.” I swallowed.

“Uh huh. I’ll give you until we’re in your room to think of a better response before I break out my dick magic.” He motioned for me to head up the stairs. Tension built between us, and it wasn’t the good kind. Heaviness filled my limbs, making each step harder to take. I didn’t want to lose him—I’d just gotten him—but would he pick her over me if I told him I wouldn’t let Hope ruin me again?

Was I ready to find out?

One day. I had one day of perfect bliss before it had all blown up. Literally.

At the top of the steps, I turned and faced him. I didn’t want to wake Colter. “I asked for time to figure it out. I still need that because I have a feeling I’m going to have to do something you won’t like. If I’m going to lose you, I want to be sure.”

Holden’s jaw clenched, and he balled his hands into fists. “What part of forever don’t you understand, Wildcat?” Holden crowded me, towering over me, his eyes dark as he stared down at me. “You keep changing the playbook, forgetting you have a whole team here to help you. Let me in, baby.”

My lip wobbled. “I’m scared you won’t choose me.”

“Do I need to get down on one knee for you to hear how fucking serious I am? You’re my everything, Emerson. Nothing comes before you anymore. Not football. Not Hope. Not my fear. You’re my family now, you and Colter. You’re always first.”

All the self-doubt and insecurities vanished in an instant. I was letting my baggage fuck it up. Holden had been honest. He’d trusted me, and I owed him the same courtesy. I loved every part of him, not just some.

“You’re right. I’m sorry for not trusting in your love. I won’t doubt it again.” I cupped his cheek, his rough stubble harsh against my hand, and I relished it. Letting out a deep breath, I told him about the conversation I’d overheard in the bathroom. Holden didn’t dispute anything. He just listened.

“No more bullshit. Come on.” He took my hand and pulled me down the hallway, but before he’d taken a few steps, he stopped, and I ran into his back.

“Ow. Why’d you stop?” I rubbed my nose, blinking the tears away as he stepped away.

Sitting in front of my bedroom door, with her leg in a new cast, was none other than Hope Adler.

CHAPTER

FORTY-FOUR

HOLDEN

My sister peered up at us, her face solemn, and I knew I wouldn’t like whatever she said. Emerson peeked around me, her body tense at the sight of Hope sitting in front of her door. I took her hand to show Hope we were a united front and maybe to stop Wildcat from pouncing.

“Hey. I was hoping I could talk to you both.”

“If it’s about—” Emerson started, but I cut her off. I wanted to know what Hope would say first.

“Let’s go in my room. Colter’s sleeping.” Emerson huffed, but moved past her door to mine. Hope rolled to her good knee to stand. I stopped and reached out a hand. I might be pissed at her, but I wouldn’t let my sister struggle.

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