Page 60 of Don't Look Back

“Now that Jimmy’s not a threat, are you going to keep your name Leslie or go back to Zoey?” I press a soft kiss to her head and snuggle a little closer.

Snow’s sleeping at my feet. She hasn’t left our side since we got home. I'm sure she senses something, which is why I love this dog.

“I’d really like to go back to Zoey. I’ve always hated the name Leslie.”

“Then why did you pick that name?”

“Well, Jimmy knew I hated it. I figured it was best for me to use it and he might not think it’s really me.” She lifts her shoulder in a shrug.

“I really like Zoey.” I emphasize her name, loving how a soft smile spreads across her cheeks.

“I’ve always loved how you say Zoey. It makes me feel special.” She kisses my forearm that’s wrapped around her shoulders. She’s resting with her back against my side and her head leaning against my shoulder.

“What do you want to do the rest of the night?”

“I want to check on Sophia and make sure she’s ok. She was really freaked out.”

“I think you should give her some space tonight.” As soon as the words are out of my mouth, I know she’s goingto argue with me. I hold up a hand and stop her. “I know you care, but she’s with Pecker. He said she’s still scared and shaking. He’s taking care of her and I think you need to let her find comfort in him.”

“Why?”

“Because he really cares about her. At first it was a harmless crush, but I think things are developing between them. I’d like to see what’s going to happen and I think tonight will either move their relationship along or stop it.”

“Ok,” she whispers.

“What else do you want to do?”

She stares into my eyes for several long seconds before she moves onto her knees and straddles my lap. She kisses me hard and demanding, surprising the hell out of me.

“You.”

“You don’t have to tell me twice!” I stand, taking her with me.

She giggles as she wraps her arms around my neck and her legs around my waist. I take off at a jog towards our room with Snow barking behind us.

“I'm ok, Snow!” Zoey laughs even harder.

Chapter 34

Zoey

“Are you sure I should be coming with you?” Sophia glances at herself in my full-length mirror and tugs on the hem of her dress uncomfortably.

“Why wouldn’t you?”

“Because I don’t know any of these people and it’s Christmas! No one wants to spend Christmas with strangers.” Sophia sighs and shakes her head.

“You’re not a stranger, Soph. You’re family.” Colt sneaks up behind her and wraps her in a big hug. “Tucker’s going to tease the crap outta you. Skylar’s going to love having someone else there to bust my balls, and Gran might be the happiest woman in the world if you ask her about her pie secrets. Lord knows Skylar’s never going to bake a pie.”

“Are you sure they want me there?” She blinks up at him.

“Yes. And if they don’t, I'm not goingeither.”

“Oh, please!”

Colt moves around until he’s in front of her and he squats until they’re eye level.

“If you don’t want to go, say the word. I’ll call and cancel right now. I’ll throw some steaks on the grill and we’ll have a very unconventional Christmas dinner, but I’ll be just as happy here with the two of you, as I will be there.”

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