Page 28 of Fake Out Forever

He’s right.

I am afraid.

I’m terrified down to my very core.

I’m thirty-seven years old, and I’ve never gone against anything my parents have told me. I’ve been a good daughter. An obedient daughter. I know that if I stay and do what my heart wants me to do, they will ruin Cade. They will demolish the memory of his hockey career. Ruin his reputation. Destroy his life.

I can’t let them do that to him.

Won’t.

I wouldn’t survive it.

“You’re wrong.” I lie over my shoulder.

“I’m right. And you know it.”

I keep moving, open the door, and wave at the Lyft driver.

“Lucky for you, duchess, I’m a patient man.” He calls out as I make my way down the steps. “I’m giving you one month to come to your senses.”

“What?” My heart is beating so hard I think I might pass out. I whirl around with my hands on my hips. “What do you mean you’re giving me one month to come to my senses?”

“Exactly what I said, duchess.” Now he’s standing in the doorway, his arms braced on the jamb, with his chest all puffed out. I’ll be damned if he doesn’t look like a preening peacock. He shoots me one of his miracle smiles. “I don’t know why you need it, but I’ll give you your space. But make no mistake about it, duchess. You’re mine.”

I want to run to him. I want to throw my arms around him and kiss him until my lips are numb. I don’t want to leave him.

Refusing to follow my instincts and stay, I climb into the car. The driver’s grinning face is staring at me from the rearview mirror.

“What?” I huff.

“He’s in love with you.”

“He is not.” I pout. “Please take me to the tow yard.”

“Will do.” He’s still smiling as he backs out of the driveway. “I can put the car in drive and take you back if you want.”

“I don’t want.”

“Alright.” He shrugs. “Suit yourself. But you’re making a big mistake.”

“I’m not.”

“You are.” He turns onto the main road. “You’re in love with him.”

“Who are you? Dr. Phil?” I roll my eyes. “I’m not in love with him.”

Of course, I’m in love with him. He’s everything I’ve ever wanted.

“Umm, okay.”

We pass by mountains of snow piled on the sides of the road. I want to go back. I want to stay with Cade forever. My heart drops into my stomach like a lead ball.

“Here.”

I glance up to see a box of tissues in the driver’s hand.

“You need these.” He passes them over the seat.

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