Page 42 of Until We Break

“All the difference,” I admitted.

“What?”

I exhaled. “Can we walk back to the shipwreck? We should talk about everything.”

Margot examined the situation. I could almost read every thought in her mind. If she went back to the wreck with me, she was giving in. If she didn’t, she’d always wonder what my reasons were for not calling.

“Look, I’ll get us some new beers. I’ll meet you there and we’ll talk this out. Okay?”

“I didn’t say yes.”

“I’ll wait for you to decide.” I stood patiently. She had to yes to this. It was a conversation we needed to have.

“Fine,” she groaned. She disappeared in the darkness, walking back toward the wreck while I headed in the opposite direction toward the coolers to get a new round of drinks for us.

I had to hope this meant we would get answers tonight. A chance to apologize. A chance to understand what the fuck happened all those years ago.

I reached for the cooler just as it slammed on my hand. “What the hell,” I barked.

Josie Queen stood with her foot on the lid. “What do you think you’re doing?”

TWENTY-TWO

Caleb

Igroaned. I didn’t want to talk to Josie now, but her foot was between the beer and me.

“I know who she is,” she hissed at me.

I threw my hands in the air. “And who are you referring to?”

She tsked, shaking her head. “That girl that almost kept you from going to the Coast Guard Academy. It’s her, isn’t it? Margot Delaney who inherited the Blue Heron from Walt.”

I ran my hand over the top of my head. “So what if it is her?”

Josie folded her arms over her chest. “I saw exactly what happened the last time she was here. What it did to you.”

“And? You’re going to tell me to not talk to her?”

Josie muttered. “No, you asshole. I like her. I think you should find out what happened. She’s been through a lot. Maybe this is the Universe putting you back together.”

“I do not believe in the Universe,” I stated.

“Well, you should because she’s sending you a clear signal. Margot is back on Marshoak for a reason. Maybe that reason is you.”

“Can I get my beer and talk to her now that you’ve done a palm reading?”

She grumbled. “I didn’t even touch your palm, Caleb.” She stepped back, giving me access to the cooler again.

I grabbed two icy bottles and let the lid fall into place. “Thanks.”

“Just remember what I said.” She bumped me with the side of her hip.

“There’s no reason for me to think she’s going to stay. Not after last time. Not this time.”

“Then give her a reason to, Caleb. Tell her what I’ve always known.”

I towered over Josie. “And what’s that?”

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