Page 126 of The Bridges I've Burned

A grin tugged at the corner of her mouth. “I’m sure you would be, but no…no romance. Sorry, Trouble. I was leaning more toward thrillers.”

“That research sounds less intriguing.” I laughed. “But that’s actually pretty perfect, Elena. I could see you doing that.”

“Yeah?” She seemed about five percent more on board with the idea because of my enthusiasm. It was a start.

“Yeah.” I nodded. “You could travel, try new things, finally slow down.”

She swallowed as I met her gaze, hoping she could read between the lines of what I was trying to say.

You could travel…with me.

You could try new things…with me.

You could finally slow down….with me.

“If only life were that simple,” she said, a hint of sadness in her voice.

“Yeah,” I agreed. “If only.”

Unknown number

You need to come by the shop this morning before we open.

me

Who the hell is this?

Unknown number

Millie. Now, get the fuck over here.

me

I think you must have me confused with your husband. I’m not at your beck and call.

Millie

No, but you are on my shit list.

me

And why is that?

Millie

Because I know your little secret, Mr. Tate.

Fuuuck.

me

I’ll be right there.

Millie

Good boy.

It was the day of the rehearsal dinner, and this was the last thing I needed to be dealing with. I’d thought I’d managed to stay just under the radar these last three weeks in Ocracoke.

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