Page 3 of Two Minutes for Holding

I shook my head, tears clouding my vision.

“No tears. You know the truth. It’s better than never knowing,” he said, nudging my chin with his thumb.

“That’s true,” I said, deleting the photo from my phone and shoving it into my pocket.

“You know, I think it’s time for another shot. Then I think we should go out on to the dance floor and dance the night away. What do you say?” Clay asked, signalling the bartender again for two more shots.

I restedmy head against Clay’s shoulder as the Uber he’d called drove us back to Knox’s place, finally coming to a stop in his driveway.

I heard Clay whisper my name and felt his hand on my thigh, gently squeezing my leg to get my attention.

“Huh?”

“You’re home.” Clay said quietly.

I blinked, trying to clear the fuzziness from my eyes. I’d had so much fun tonight. We’d talked, we’d danced, and we’d both drank a lot.

“That was fast,” I murmured, trying to undo my seatbelt.

“Here, let me,” Clay said, leaning forward a bit and undoing my seatbelt. He leaned across me, letting the belt gently go, and met my eyes. He stared at me and then brought his hand up and brushed a strand of hair back that was in my face.

“You know, I never really realized just how pretty you are,” he whispered.

His eyes were glass blue against his dark hair, and as he sat there, looking into my eyes with his hand on my cheek, I wanted nothing more than to feel his lips against mine.

Anticipation filled me as he slowly leaned forward and brushed his lips barley against mine.

I pulled back at first, not sure what had just happened, but as I met his eyes, I leaned forward into him, this time my lips brushing against his. Heat flooded my body as he deepened the kiss. Then, as if someone hit him, he pulled back and cleared his throat, looking forward.

“Peyton, I’m…I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have done that,” he whispered, looking toward the house where we both knew my brother slept.

“Clay, it’s okay…” I said, placing my hand on his arm.

“No, it’s not. Let’s just pretend that this never happened, because honestly, it shouldn’t have happened. It was a moment of weakness on my part. I know better.”

I frowned, wishing for nothing more than to continue this kiss.

“I won’t say anything,” I whispered, placing my hand on his.

“Nor will I because we both know we shouldn’t. Good night, Peyton. Go on inside. I’ll go home and get some rest, knowing that you’re home safe.”

I was confused more than anything, but I tugged on the door handle and opened the door. Climbing out, I was about to shut the door when I heard Clay call my name. I bent down and looked into the back seat.

“If you need anything, don’t be afraid to reach out. I know how your brother can be. I don’t mind if you need to talk.” He winked, handing me his card. “Good night, Peyton.”

“Night, Clay,” I whispered and then shut the door.

I wandered up to the front door and slid my key in the lock, then I tiptoed down the hall, careful not to make too much noise as I almost fell over. I entered my bedroom, flopping down on my bed. Minutes later, still dressed, I fell asleep and dreamt of an amazing kiss.

Chapter Two

Peyton - January 2025

I stoppedmy mother’s rundown Honda Civic outside the doors of the airport. My brother’s plane should have landed about ten minutes ago, I thought as I glanced around, looking for him. I tapped the dash, trying to get the time to come back on the display, but it did little good.

“Stupid crap car,” I said to myself as the time flashed for a moment, then the radio cut out.

I glanced up just as Knox walked out of the double doors, a small bag thrown over his shoulder. Moving the car up, I rolled down the passenger-side window and waved.

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