Page 31 of Unexpected Temptation

I pull up at the side of the road, taking out my phone. I know she’s still feeling hazy. I only left her thirty or so minutes ago.

I’m sorry about your mom.

It’s fine. She just hasn’t got long left. That’s the truth. I wouldn’t say this or even type it usually, but tonight is weird. You’re weird, Tristan. Marine. Dogman. Underground fighter.

That’s not who I am,I reply.

Who are you, then?

I stare at the words for a long time, unsure how to reply.I’m just trying to do the right thing.

You wouldn’t have been doing that fight unless you needed the money, right? You’re bankrupting yourself to pay me.

No, I’m not,I type quickly, but in the back of my head, Tank’s there, telling me the same thing.You’re a hard worker. See you tomorrow.

It’s the opposite of what I should be telling her. I can’t take in every stray with a sob story, but there’s just something about Maya. I can’t let her go, knowing it would mean her life imploding.

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

MAYA

“Thanks for agreeing to stay,” I tell Lacey at the door, shouldering my bag. A cold shower and two coffees have made me feel just about human, but the effects of last night still linger. It all feels so surreal: the fight, the drugging, the ride home. However, the texts prove it all happened. “I know it’s a lot.”

“It’s a lot for you,” Lacey says quietly. “A lot of … investment, Maya. Some days, you must lose money paying me while traveling to work.”

“Is there something you want to say?” I snap, far colder than I’d usually be.

My head is pulsing, and I don’t want to consider abandoning Mom.

Lacey takes a breath, then says, “Keeping your mom at home is becoming increasingly difficult. The medical expenses are adding up, which might be more than you can handle.”

“I know it’s tough, but I can manage. Mom’s happier here with me.”

“It’s not just about happiness. She needs care that we can’t provide here.”

I grit my teeth, agony twisting through me. “I’m doing everything I can to take care of her. She’s my mom.”

“I get that, but are you prepared for the financial strain? It could affect your future.”

“I can’t just give up on her. She needs me.”

Lacey steps forward and gently places her hand supportively on my arm. “I’m not asking you to give up. I’m asking you to consider what’s best for both of you.”

“I can’t …” My voice falters. “I won’t abandon her.”

“I just want to ensure she gets the care she needs, and you don’t stretch yourself too far until you snap.”

Tears try to prick my eyes, but I can’t let them. I need to be strong today and stay focused. “I promised her she’d always be with me. I can’t break that promise.”

Lacey squeezes my arm supportively. “You’re not breaking a promise by ensuring she gets the best care possible.”

“I’ll find a way. We’ll manage.”

She sighs. “Well, okay. I’m here to help however I can.”

I quickly leave, not wanting her to see how shaken up the conversation has gotten me. Lacey’s words won’t stop bouncing around my head. Maybe she’s right, but I can’t think about letting go.

Yet, the reality is starting to sink in. Soon, Mom won’t beableto stay with me anymore. The home we’ve shared for yearshas already become a place filled with medical equipment and strangers who tend to her needs. I’ve fought so hard to keep her home, but ALS doesn’t care about wishes. It progresses relentlessly, leaving me grappling with the painful truth that I can’t do this alone anymore.

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