Page 117 of Chasing Sparks

Wait a damn minute. How often were they talking? And why would he bring me up to her?

“What an interesting topic of conversation,” I reply dryly.

Lucille’s expression softens, and for a moment, she appears almost sad. “You’re important to him, Ori. More than you probably realize. This situation—it’s breaking him.”

Breaking him?What about me?

Her gaze drops to the floor, her voice barely a whisper. “He’s trying to do the right thing. For everyone.”

Damn it, I want to hate the woman, but there’s something so earnest about her. She doesn’t seem like the heartless bitch Ash and Braden talk about. She seems lonely, and a bit lost.

But looks can be deceiving.

“Braden says you’re fixing them a big dinner tonight.”

Lucille sighs, forcing a smile. “It’s the least I can do since they’re letting me stay there. You’re welcome to join us.”

Thanks, but I’d rather drink gasoline.

“I’m busy.” I pause, wringing my hands as I work up the courage to tell Lucille what I know she needs to hear. “Ash will do the right thing, Lucille. He’s a stand-up guy.”

“I know, but this isn’t what he wanted.”

Ouch. That even hurtsmeto hear.

Giving her hand another awkward pat, I muster a calming tone. “Give him time. I’m sure it shocked him to learn he’s going to be a dad.”

Sure as hell floored me, but I’m no one in this situation.

I hand her two more books. “Let me know if you need anything else.”

“Ori?”

Once again, I brace myself, unsure what Lucille might have left to say. “Yes?”

“Thank you for understanding. For being nice to me. Most women wouldn’t in your situation.”

A curt nod is all I can manage, and even that is a struggle. Winding my way around the piles of books I’ve strewn across the floor, I make a beeline for my office and shut the door.

Inventory can wait.

Right now, I need to fall the fuck apart.

When a knock sounds at my office door, I groan and press my forehead against the desk, the words spilling out before I can stop them.

“Not now. Please, not now.”

Chapter 17

Whiskey & Ice Cream

Ori

It’s been twelve days since my world fell apart.

To some, I might seem ridiculous and dramatic. The world is not ending, and I will recover in time. Hearts get broken every day, and in far more painful fashion than mine.

My brain repeats these facts countless times, but my heart has demanded at least a couple of weeks to wallow in misery after learning my boyfriend is going to be a father, and I’m not part of that equation.

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