Page 80 of Frozen Flames

“Okay, thanks.”

I don’t know what else to say. This is the same guy who told me to stay away from his brother. If Harvey told him anything about what’s been going on, I’m positive he hates me more now.

“You’re not trying hard enough.”

I’m taken aback by his comment. “Excuse me?” Does he mean regarding Harvey’s training? I’ve been doing so much researchand incorporating exercises that are proven to help. And he thinks I’m slacking off?

“To keep things platonic, I mean, my dear.”

I open my mouth to rebut, then close it again before saying, “I barely talk to him. I basically ignore him outside of training. What more can I do?”

He looks at me with bulging eyes, lifting his brows as if the answer is so obvious. “You could quit.”

“I… He’s thriving with my program,” I say softly.

He scoffs. “He’s thriving because you’re a pretty nurse, that’s all. Nothing McKleen can’t do himself.”

“Wow! That’s not sexist.”

He shakes his head. “Nothing to do with sexism. You’re fucking up his relationship. If you care about him, you’ll leave.”

Deep down, I know he’s right. Even though it’s never that simple to find a new job, especially as a postgraduate, and especially in this market.

I need all the experience I can get.

“Gemma and I agreed to put this behind us. Maybe it’s time you do the same,” I tell Henrik. Then I head to the dining table to answer emails from the rehab center before Harvey comes out.

When he does, he eyes his brother in the living room before looking at me.

“Hey,” he says simply. “Henrik and I are heading out to run a few errands. I’ll train later, alright?”

I nod, knowing he won’t invite me this time.

While they’re gone, I ponder Henrik’s words. The idea of not seeing Harvey every day hurts me. I’d much rather stay, even if I can’t have him relationship-wise, so that I still get to hang out with him. It’s absurd actually, and if I’m being honest, it feels like I’m betraying myself because I deserve better than that.

To pass the time, I read articles and studies online about my field. Two hours later, Harvey comes back in—alone. I head to his workout area, waiting for him as he eyes me curiously.

“Are you okay?”

“Yes, of course.” I smile at him, handing him the weights once he’s on the kitchen chair next to me.

“How’s your sister doing? She over her heartbreak yet?”

“Oh yes, way over him.” I wave my hand in the air as if it’s nothing. “Audrey isn’t one to fret for long.”

“Well, that’s good. She has you to look up to—I’m sure that helps,” he says kindly.

I give him a small smile as we start his training. I let it run even longer today to build his stamina.

“I would’ve asked you to come with us, but I figured we shouldn’t,” he murmurs randomly.

“I don’t think Gemma would appreciate that unless it serves a purpose. Besides, it’s not like your brother wants me there.”

I’m putting some of his equipment in the corner of the living room when he sighs, transferring to his wheelchair as he replies, “What did he say now?”

“He’s your brother, Harvey. He’s just looking out for you.”

His hand weaves through his blond hair. “What did he say, Claire?”

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