Page 38 of Blindsided By Fake Love

“It’s almost as if a switch has flipped.” Nicky smiles. “He’s still learning how to adjust to this new life, but that little story has given him a way to bounce back faster. Thank you.”

My gaze jumps back and forth between the two of them, and the tightness in my lungs loosen. This is why I love Play It Forward. It gives me the opportunity to help not just a child but also their family.

My phone vibrates, and I pull it out of my pocket to see a text from Kit. My eyebrows knit together.

Missy reaches out and grabs my hand. I turn my gaze toward her. ”Is everything okay? You look as if you could use your own advice.”

She gives me a squeeze, and I stare down at her grip. I sigh and then shift my gaze back to hers. Her eyes are filled with compassion, and an ache blooms in my core at her kindness. “Is something going on with that new wife of yours?”

My brows shoot up, and my gaze jumps between the two of them. “It’s a small town, Beau.” Nicky’s gaze glints as she chuckles. “And Scott’s ego is bruised.”

I scoff and stuff my hands in my pocket. “Well, he’s the idiot for not marrying her when he had multiple opportunities.”

“She’s too good for him.” Missy snorts. “But you didn’t answer my question.”

Glancing between them, I try to decide how much I want to say. “I’m not sure,” I say honestly. “Today’s been a bit rough.”

I rub the back of my neck to ease the tension that’s been sitting there since leaving Kit and Scott.

“Do you want to talk about it?” Missy asks softly. “We’re good listeners.”

“You’ve done so much for Jack already…let us try to help.” Nicky points to the chair beside her, and I hesitate.

Mike’s and Cole’s words run through my head. The reminder of my conversation with Jack echoes, too.

I’m not sure this is a case where I can let what happened roll off my back, but it may require me shaking it off enough to have a conversation.

A conversation that I’ve been avoiding since waking up married.

“Beau?” I look up at Nicky.

A sheepish grin slides across my face just as my phone vibrates again.

“I think this is a conversation I need to have with my wife.” I start to walk down the stairs but turn and say over my shoulder. “Wish me luck.”

“If Kit knows what’s good for her, you won’t need any luck.” The glint in Missy’s eyes has mine crinkling. “If she doesn’t, I’m still on the market.”

I throw my head back and howl, then wink at her. “I’ll let her know she has some serious competition.”

When I reach the car, I remember the Play It Forward event this upcoming weekend.

“Play It Forward has its annual tour for our area this upcoming weekend. I’d love it if the two of you could join! Have Jack text me if you’re interested, and I’ll get you all the details.”

Waving at them, I hop in my car and head home.

I have dinner to get ready for and a woman to convince that marrying me wasn’t a mistake.

Wish me luck is right.

Chapter Sixteen

Kit

IslidetheChickenFrancese in the oven and set the timer for fifteen minutes. Next, I prep the string bean almondine and braised potatoes. When I check the time, I rip the apron from around my head and dart to the bathroom.

“Beau’s gonna be here in twenty minutes. I’m never going to be ready!” I squeal as I toss my clothes on the floor and then run back to pick up what I threw down and put it in the laundry basket.

Five minutes, and possibly the fastest shower I’ve ever taken, later I rub my damp hair with a towel. Tearing through my closet, I try to decide what to wear.

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