Page 18 of Off Season

“I’m so sorry.” His voice cracks, thick with emotion.

“It is what it is,” I mumble between clenched teeth.

“Well, it shouldn’t be. Nobody should have to go through something like that, on both counts.”

Shaking my head, I squeeze my eyes closed. I don’t want to see the look of pity in Jacob’s eyes. This is why I don’t tell people about Ian or my dad. They give me the same pitiful look, and it makes me so fucking angry.

“Ian is a dickhead for not having the courage to speak up and give you the opportunity to work on whatever he deemed was broken, but mainly for not appreciating the incredible man you are.” He runs his hand smoothly up my bicep, gently motioning for me to turn and face him. The sunlight sparkles in those blue eyes, and just the sight alone makes me want to cave.

Jacob barely reaches my chin, but he stretches up to cupmy jaw. I close my eyes for a moment, trying to resist leaning into his touch.

“But most of all, I’m sorry that the man who is supposed to love you unconditionally left you when you were too young to understand. Being a father is a gift. It’s a title you need to earn, and I’m sorry that he didn’t stick around to get to know the wonderful son he was given.”

Biting down on the inside of my cheek, I allow myself to get lost in the feel of his thumb caressing the stubble lining my jaw.

“Thank you,” he whispers.

I open my eyes to see him smiling. “For what?”

“For telling me. I can sense that you struggle trusting people, and rightly so, given what you’ve been through, so thank you for telling me.” His eyes gleam as he pokes a finger into my chest. “Now, I’m going to be the best damn fake boyfriend ever. Little ol’ England won’t know what hit it.”

I snort, thankful he’s lightening the mood. For being the sunshine I need to help me escape the dark gray clouds. “Oh, yeah?”

“Yep,” he answers firmly, popping the P.

He drops his hand and although it was only a finger against my chest, I miss the contact instantly.

“And as for you, your first boyfriendly duty will be taking me for afternoon tea. I want the quintessential British experience. This needs to be the most unforgettable vacation.”

I’m sure I can make that happen.

Chapter Six

Elliot: Ethan, I miss you already.

Ethan: I’m still in Chicago.

Elliot: But STILL! I miss you.

Ethan: …

Blaine: All set for your vacay?

Ethan: Yeah. Picking Jacob up in thirty minutes.

Blaine: Cool.

Elliot: Cool.

Ethan: …

Ethan: What are you two up to?

Peyton: Ohh! The twins are up to no good again.

Mitch: Don’t besuspicious.

Mitch: Don’t, don’t be suspicious!

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