Page 86 of Red Dreams

So I nod in understanding. “And the job? You’ll be doing IT work for a software company, right?”

A glimmer of his old enthusiasm sparks in his eyes. “Yeah, it's a good opportunity. A chance to do something normal, you know? Something that doesn't involve ... well, all of this.”

Cassie leans back in her chair, eyeing Ethan with a mix of disdain and grudging respect. “Well, look at you, Rutledge. Finally growing a pair and striking out on your own. Never thought I'd see the day.”

Ethan's jaw tightens, but he doesn't rise to her bait. Instead, he turns to me, his expression softening. “I'm going to miss you, Layla. You've been a true friend through all of this insanity. I don't know how I would have survived without you.”

Tears prick at the corners of my eyes. “I'm going to miss you too, E. But I'm so proud of you for doing what's best for you. You deserve happiness and peace.”

“We all do,” he says quietly, his gaze encompassing Kaden and Cassie as well. “I hope you find yours in whatever form it takes.”

Kaden clears his throat, drawing our attention. “Millhaven isn't that far. Don't be a stranger. You're welcome here anytime.”

Ethan blinks in surprise at the unprecedented invitation. “I ... thanks. That means a lot.”

The hint of a smile tugs at the corner of Kaden's mouth before his expression turns serious again. “I owe you for everything you've done for Layla. If you ever need anything, say the word.”

Ethan nods, swallowing hard. “I appreciate that.”

An awkward silence descends until Cassie abruptly stands, her chair scraping against the floor.

“Well, this has been touching, really. But some of us have actual work to do.” She drains the last of her coffee and sets themug in the sink with a clatter. “I'll be at the lighthouse if anyone needs me. Try not to.”

She stalks out without a backward glance, Reaper trotting at her heels. Ethan sighs, pushing back from the table as well.

“I should get going too. I have a long drive ahead of me.” He hesitates, then pulls me into a tight hug. “Take care of yourself, okay? And him.” He nods toward Kaden.

“I will,” I promise, my voice muffled against his shoulder. “You take care of yourself too. And keep in touch.”

“I will.” Ethan pulls back, swiping surreptitiously at his eyes. He extends a hand to Kaden. “Mr. Black.”

Kaden clasps his hand firmly. “Drive safe. Remember what I said.”

“If it’s all the same to you, I hope I never need your kind of help,” Ethan replies.

Kaden’s lips twitch into an almost smile in response.

“Now go,” I say to Ethan, shooing him before I really do cry. “Live a good life. Find a nice, normal girl and fall stupidly in love. You deserve that happiness.”

Ethan huffs a quiet laugh. With a final squeeze of my hand, he walks out the door and down the steps to his car. I watch until the vehicle disappears down the fog-shrouded drive, an odd mix of sadness and relief swirling inside me.

Strong arms wrap around my waist from behind, pulling my back flush against a solid wall of muscle. Kaden nuzzles into my neck.

“You're not having second thoughts, are you, Wraithling?” he murmurs, a hint of tension beneath his seemingly casual tone.

I turn in his embrace, looping my arms around his neck. “Never. You're stuck with me, Mr. Black. For better or worse.”

His eyes search mine intently before he crushes me to him, his mouth commanding mine.

When he finally pulls back, we're both panting.

“Your black heart is mine,” I say.

He kisses me again, more gently this time, a silent seal of our dark covenant. Then he takes my hand, lacing our fingers together. “Let's go back to bed.”

I grin at him, mischief sparking in my mind. “Race you.”

I take off running, laughing as I hear Kaden's growl of outrage behind me. I make it halfway up the stairs before strong arms scoop me up. Kaden tosses me over his shoulder like a sack of flour, giving my ass a stinging smack.

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