Page 183 of The Re-Proposal

Cody leans his forehead against the wall right outside Joel’s room. I can hear his heavy breathing. It looks like his heart just shattered. No matter how hard of a front Cody puts on, he’s soft with the people he cares about.

To hear Joel slash at him like that…

“Cody,” I say, drawing near to him.

“Just—just give me a minute, Ris.”

I watch him walk off, his shoulders slumped.

Utterly dejected.

Vargas, who I hadn’t even realized was in the hallway too, moves toward me. “I’ve never seen him like that.”

“Why is Joel so angry?” I ask.

“I have no idea.”

“I’ll be right back.” I hurry after Cody.

I find him in an empty hallway, looking through the large windows. In the reflection of the glass, I see that his eyes are red.

My heart aches for him as hard as it aches for Joel.

Silently, I slip my arms around his waist and hope my presence brings him comfort.

“I’m not crying,” Cody says. “I sneezed a few seconds ago.”

“Of course. I didn’t say anything.”

Cody reminds me of his big brother Clay right now. Hiding their vulnerable side is definitely a Bolton family trait.

Cody sniffs quietly. It’s easy to think that he’s an unfeeling, cruel robot. And there are days when that might be close to the truth.

But the Ice King is not who he really is.

He’s sweet, generous and goes over and beyond for the people he truly loves. When necessary, he sheds that grumpy boss skin and a reliable, caring man takes form.

Cody clears his throat. “Can you stay with him tonight? I’ll make arrangements for a new nurse tomorrow.”

“Yes.”

“Thank you.” He twists around and tugs me forward so I’m hugging him from the front.

His arms close around me and he leans some of his weight on my body.

“I don’t know how I could have done this without you.”

“You’ll never have to find out,” I murmur.

“Ehem.” Vargas appears behind us.

I start to pull away from Cody, but his hands band around my waist.

“Is the kid okay now?”

“He’s stable. But the doctors think,” Vargas’ face flushes, “they think it’s a good idea for you to stay away from him. For the time being.”

I hear Cody’s heart shatter for a second time, but his face shows no signs of pain.

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