Page 83 of His Secret Gift

He releases me and then walks away.

I’m left puzzled.What the hell?

Moments later he returns with his breath smelling minty.

“Sorry about that. I just didn’t want to be blowing bone broth into your face.”

I stare at the ground before meeting his gaze. “I appreciate that. You were saying?” My heart starts beating faster.

“I like you.”

I smile shyly. “I like you, too.”

His arms are crossed, and he wipes his nose with his thumb. “But I’m scared.”

Now it’s me who grabs him—holding his hands in mine. “Of what?”

He glares at me desperately. “Of you becoming another Harper.”

I roll my eyes. “Please don’t insult me like that.”

“You know what I mean.”

“I understand your trepidation, but I promise you… I’m nothing like her. For one thing, you’re never going to see me pouting like an idiot.” I do my best to mock her. He laughs.

“And you probably wouldn’t try to trick me into thinking you were pregnant.”

My face turns serious again. “She did that?”

He nods. “Even though I know for a fact that she can’t have children.”

“Wow.” That’s a whole other level of crazy.

“Yeah.”

“Well, I wholeheartedly promise I would never do something like that. Or cheat on you. I think that’s one of the most offensive things you can do to someone.”

A corner of his mouth upturns. “I appreciate that.”

But then something hits me, and I take a few steps away from him.

“What is it?”

“I just—this whole thing could’ve been avoided you know?”

He glares at me like he’s puzzled. “What are you talking about?”

I’m a little frustrated that he’s playing dumb. “The note?”

“What note?”

Crossing my arms, I explain, “The one I left for you on the ship. I slipped it under your door—”

He’s spluttering. “Kayla… I—I have no idea…”

My head cocks, and my eyes squint. “Seriously?”

“I swear.” He runs his hand along his dark hair. “I never saw anything.”

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