Page 92 of Burning for You

“Levi knows,” Carolyn says, squeezing my hand.

“Okay.” Albert’s gaze softens. “I just want to clear the air, Ro.” He takes a deep breath. “I love you. I’ll back you. I know that tape was my mistake, but you’re my daughter, my only flesh and blood, and I will fight like hell to protect you.”

“Dad…”

“I’ve treated you like an enemy, but I’m not that man anymore.”

With that, Carolyn lets go of me and hugs her dad.

Knowing their relationship has been volatile, the scene warms me, even makes me sob inside, although the two don’t seem to be the crying type. When they collide, their energy is imposing.

Albert says, “What happened with Mendez will be my business, too, so I will have to deal with it my way. I will never stop protecting you, but I won’t stop you from doing what you want. But I’m begging you, please, think of me as your dad.”

“You’re always my dad,” she says, giving him a peck on the cheek. “I’m sorry this mess has to come back.”

Hell, Albert Meyer can and will protect Carolyn. Because he’s her father, and he has all the power in the world to do so.

“We’ve got this,” Albert says, and unexpectedly he lets her go, as if urging her to come back to me.

Softness takes over Carolyn’s rigid face. Maybe this isn’t the usual reaction Albert has toward her boyfriend. She’s full of joy, and relief.

Albert then says, “Nice to meet you, Mr. Holt. I’ll speak to you soon.”

I nod. Despite seeing Carolyn at ease, hopeful that her dad might just approve of me, I know it’s going to be a battle to convince Mr. Meyer that no one else should be with his daughter, except me.

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