Page 83 of Manic

I guess it will never change.

We’ll never have the level of peace we yearn for.

I take a long pull from my beer, trying to push away the anger that rises whenever I think about it.

"That's real nice of you, darlin'," I say, forcing a smile. "I'm sure the boys will appreciate it."

Starla snorts. "Please. They'll inhale it without tasting a bite. Animals, the lot of them."

I can't help but chuckle. She's not wrong. "Hey now, some of us have manners."

Starla challenges, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Yeah? Name one."

I open my mouth to retort, but Meghan cuts in. "Children, play nice. There's enough food for everyone, manners or not."

I watch as she moves around the kitchen, her movements sure and practiced.

It's clear she's in her element here, and I find myself wondering how many nights she spent cooking for her father, trying to placate his temper with a hot meal.

The thought makes my blood boil.

"Need any help?" I offer, pushing off from the counter.

Meghan shakes her head. "We've got it under control. Why don't you go relax? I'll let you know when it's ready."

I hesitate, not wanting to leave her side.

It's been like this all week—the constant need to keep her in my sight, to make sure she's safe.

I know it's irrational, that she's perfectly capable of taking care of herself.

But the fear of losing her again is a constant ache in my chest.

"You sure?" I ask, searching her face for any sign of discomfort.

She meets my gaze, her eyes softening. "I'm sure, Tor. Go. We'll be fine."

I nod, reluctantly heading for the door.

As I reach the threshold, I hear Starla's voice, low and teasing.

"You two are disgustingly cute, you know that?"

I pause, curious to hear Meghan's response. "Oh, shut up," she grumbles, but I can hear the smile in her voice.

"I'm serious! I haven't seen Tor this smitten since... well, ever."

There's a moment of silence, and I find myself holding my breath.

"I’m glad we found our way back to each other," Meghan says finally, her voice barely above a whisper. "But, I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t scared sometimes."

The vulnerability in her tone makes my chest ache.

I want to go back in there, to gather her in my arms and promise her the world.

But I know it's not that simple.

We've both been hurt before, and trust doesn't come easy.

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