Page 73 of Crossing Lines

She turns to me with a frown. “I don’t want to hurt him.”

My stomach drops. “I’m leaving.”

“Kross—”

“Forget about tomorrow. Goodnight, Davia.”

She quickens out of my car and slams the door.

I peel off without waiting for her to enter her apartment. It hurts too much knowing who’s inside waiting for her.

TWENTY-SEVEN

The wave of sadness at Kross’s departure catches me by surprise. It takes me a few seconds to collect myself and head to my apartment.

Jamir straightens from the sofa at my entrance. My lack of joy proves how badly I want Kross to be here instead of him.

“What’s up, baby?”

“Nothing.” I close the door, place my clutch next to the pink and cream orchids on the island, and remove my coat.

“You look nice. Where’d you go?”

“Out,” is all I say, hanging my coat.

He sniffs. “Where did you get orchids?”

My heart skips at the question, and I glance at the flowers as I lie, “From work.”

“Huh. Didn’t know you liked those.”

“They’re my favorite. You don’t pay attention.” Kross does. He remembers details.

Jamir rubs his forehead. “Sorry. I know you’re upset about earlier. It was work. Try to understand.”

“I’ve been understanding. I’m exhausted.”

“Hey.” He reaches for me. “I’ll make it up to you.”

“Hearing that so much these days,” I grumble.

“Davia.” He kisses my cheek. “It’ll get better.”

“Sure.”

“Listen, I’m heading to Philly in the morning with my parents for my uncle’s sixtieth. I wanted to come by and apologize for ruining another date night.”

“So I’m not even invited on your trip.” I lower my eyes to the hardwood. “Do you want to be with me?”

“The fuck kind of question is that? Of course, I want to be with you. I love you.” He cradles my face. “Don’t ever ask me that again. It’s you and me. Always.”

I’m unsure about that when every part of me yearns for Kross.

“Can I make love to you before I leave?”

I writhe away from him. “So that’s why you came.”

He twists his face. “D, come on. I’m leaving for the weekend.”

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