Page 32 of When We Are Falling

She looks at the birds with concern. “It’s hot for them in those cages.”

“They’ll be picked up soon by the wildlife organization. They’ll get the rest and recovery they need.” A hand on her shoulder, feeling the warmth of her skin through her shirt. “You did good today.”

She looks up at me, a small smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. “Yeah, we both did. Thanks for stepping in. Sorry if I was short before. This situation—” she gestures at the oil, shaking her head.

“Don’t worry, I get it. And I’m happy to help.” My voice goes husky, memories of her taste, the smooth feel of her skin invading my thoughts. I’m getting hard already. Damnit, why does she always have this effect on me?

She’s staring at my mouth and an adorable flush of pink colors her cheeks, and I know in an instant that she’s thinking about the other night, too.

A grin aimed in her direction. “Anytime you need me, foranythingat all, I’m here.”

Her gaze lifts from my mouth, eyes meeting mine, the lust leaking away, her expression steeling. “I know you’re a good guy, but I need you to understand something. I can handle my own problems, especially with David. The only reason I accepted your help today is because I care about these animals. It doesn’t mean I need you to swoop in and save me every time you think I’m in trouble.”

Her words sting, but I take it in stride. It’s the closest we’ve gotten to talking about anything important since that night. “I get it. I really do. But just know that I’m here whenever you need me. Has David been back to see you? Has he called?”

“No, I haven’t heard from him.”

Relief floods me. Hopefully he stays gone. “I hope he’s okay.”

“Yeah, me too.”

We stand there for a moment, the sounds of the other volunteers further down the beach and the distant cries of seabirds being washed filling the air. The wind carries the scent of oil, a stark reminder of the work still ahead.

Blake breaks the silence first, glancing at the horizon. “The Tavern is open this afternoon. I’ve got to go soon.”

“Is that an invitation?” I raise an eyebrow with a playful grin, unable to resist.

She laughs and smacks me gently in the chest. “You don’t give up, do you?”

“Actually, Liam was the one who invited me.” A nonchalant shrug. “We’ve got to talk shop.”

“Alright then. Well, I guess I’ll see you tonight.”

“And don’t forget we’re meeting at the marina tomorrow morning.”

“How could I forget?” She responds with a dazzling smile. “You’ve only reminded us all thirty-seven times.”

I watch as she sashays away down the beach, her movements graceful and confident. She glances over her shoulder, giving me a long look that makes my heart stutter, before veering off toward the parking lot.

As she disappears from view and I whistle for Bandit, there’s a hint of anticipation in the air. Tonight at the bar, tomorrow at the marina—every moment with Blake feels charged with possibility.

Bandit comes running, his tail wagging furiously. I bend down to pat him, ruffling his fur. “Good boy. Time to go, little buddy.”

Pulling out my cell, I dial Liam’s number. “Hey, man,” I say when he picks up. “You up for a drink at the Tavern?”

Liam’s response is immediate. “Absolutely. I could use a cold one. It’ll have to be quick, though.”

“Great, I’ll see you there.” She need never know I made the arrangement after the fact. Ending the call and quickly packing up the last of the gear, I wait for the wildlife truck to arrive, watching as the volunteers load the cleaned animals carefully into the back. Once they’re on their way, I head for the pickup, Bandit trotting faithfully beside me.

At home, a quick shower, the hot water washing away the dirt and sweat of the day. Bandit watches me get dressed from the doorway, his eyes following my every move. “Sorry, buddy. You’re staying here tonight.”

I lock up and head out, the humid evening air a little cooler against my damp skin. The drive to the Tavern is quick, the town quiet, most of the cafes already closed for the day. The bar itselfis unusually quiet too, with more than half the tables empty and no one on the dance floor.

Carlos is leaning on the bar, chatting animatedly with Blake. She laughs at something he says, the sound warming the space. I take a moment to soak it in, my gaze lingering on her longer than necessary. Her smile, the way she moves, everything about her draws me in. I approach the bar, nodding at Carlos. There’s only one woman in front of me, who’s in the process of ordering.

Then it’s my turn: “Evening, you two.” My eyes meet Blake’s briefly, an instant jolt shooting straight through the swell of my heart. “Is Liam here?”

“Not yet.”

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