Page 68 of Ever With Me

Music had long since lost its luster, and he could barely write what he wanted anymore. His well of inspiration was dry.

He didn’t care about firing Darrenorgetting dropped from his label.

Because I have one foot out the door already.

All he wanted was to be left alone and live his miserable fucking life in peace with the few people who would tolerate him.

He couldn’t believe Maddie had stayed.

Two awful nights in the past week. Both times, she’d been there. Hell, she’d even let him sleep on her couch without knowing him.

Because she’s a good person.

A kind person.

And I’ve treated her like shit.

He owed her so many apologies he didn’t even know where to start.

Meeting his gaze in the reflection of the bathroom mirror, he glared at himself.

Brooks, you’re an asshole. You don’t deserve to even talk to Madison Yardley again.

Self-loathing filled him and he tore his gaze away. He had no choice but to perform at the country fair. And he couldn’t ask anything more of Maddie.Fuck.

He showered and got dressed, his stomach feeling weak the whole time, then left the bedroom for the living room. Audrey was watching cartoons, but she popped her head up as he came into the room. “Morning, Uncle Books!” She barreled toward him and threw her arms up with an innocent, happy smile on her face.

Lifting her, Brooks pulled her close, tears stinging his eyes.

Kayla’s censure rang through his head.“She didn’t deserve for you to put her in a dangerous situation last night . . .”

What the hell did I do?

“I’m sorry, baby girl. I’m so sorry,” he whispered into the soft angelic curls that framed her face.

As he set her down, he saw Kayla and Cormac at the kitchen table. Maddie wasn’t anywhere in sight, though.

Did she leave?

“You go on watching your cartoons,” Brooks told Audrey. “We’ll talk some more after breakfast.”

Cormac stood awkwardly as Brooks approached, giving Brooks a once-over.

Brooks held out his hand. “I owe you, man. I’m sorry.”

Cormac shook his hand, his eyes boring into Brooks. “It’s all good. You okay?”

Brooks nodded. “Feel like shit, but yeah.”

Kayla smiled tautly and stood beside Cormac. “Alcohol is in the dining room. Call the homeowner. Don’t wait up for us for dinner, but we’ll be back.”

Brooks’s gut simmered. She was still furious. She didn’t hug him or offer any real consolation.But I don’t blame her, either.

When they’d gone, Brooks went over to the television and shut it off. The silence was deafening.

He was alone.

And deserved it.

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