Page 155 of It's Always Us

“How about you help me?”

She peeks up at me, resting her chin on my chest. “Help you with what?”

I’m so tempted to kiss her lips, but I refrain. For now. “I have ideas.”

Her cheeks redden, and I want to kiss her even more. “That’s not happening.”

“Oh, I have other ideas.”

Her eyes flick between mine as her hands slide up my back, holding me tighter. “What’s wrong?” Her mouth softens into concern, and I have no idea what she’s seeing that I’m really good at hiding.

“Nothing.” I lie, not even wanting to discuss this. I know what she’ll say, and I can’t hear it.

She releases me, grabs my hand, and leads me to the back, where it’s quieter. She pulls me into Cal’s office and pushes me into the desk until I sit.

“What’s going on?” Her brow scrunches.

“Why do you think there’s something wrong?”

Her head falls to the side. “Mark Lucas Sandburg. Look at me right here.” She points to her pale blue eyes. “Tell me there’s nothing wrong.”

Shit.I should’ve known she’d know. “Rob called.” She doesn’t move like she’s been expecting this. “Denver made an offer.”

“And?”

I rub my forehead, the heat of frustration building all over again. I want to peel my skin off. Maybe that will help.

“Lex, it doesn’t matter. I’m not taking it.”

“Did you tell him that?”

Her and her damn questions. “He told me to call him in the morning.”

She stares at me, searching my face, and I look away, not wanting her to see the truth.

“It’s an amazing deal, isn’t it?” Like a defiant little boy, I don’t answer. “You’re taking it.”

My eyes snap back to hers as she calls me on my shit. “Lex . . . ” I stand.

She holds up her hand. “Tell me you don’t want it.”

“Lex, I’m not—”

She holds up her hand again, her eyes closing this time. “Tell me.” Then, one finger pops into the air as her eyes flip open. “But before you say anything, let me remind you that we promised never to lie to each other.”

Damn her and her memory.

I slump against the desk. I can’t do it, and she knows it. She steps into me, resting her arms on my shoulders.

“Take the deal, Mark.” Her fingers press into my jaw as she draws my gaze up to hers. “You have no idea how much I want this for you. I’ll be there as much as I can be. You have to do this.”

“I don’t think I can,” I whisper.Either way.

“Yes, you can. You’ll get on a plane and sign those papers. Eli, Peyton, Bree, and I will be watching and cheering for you. You have to do this.” She brings her forehead to mine. “You’re not done yet, and this time, we’re doing it together.”

Her voice is so soft. If it cracks, I’m a goner. I want her confidence.

“How am I supposed to leave you?”

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