Page 23 of The Arrogant's Redemption

“I love you even more, Badger.” I didn’t mean to declare my friendship, but once it slips out, I realize it’s true—even if I never noticed it before. I love the tattooed giant who’s managed to warm my mother’s heart back up.

He turns so red even his ears match. “I don’t exactly hate you,” he teases. “So, I guess now’s a good time to say I want to marry your mom.”

“What?”

“Sh-shit. Marla’s going to kill me.”

“She knows?”

“Yeah, but we agreed to break the news about us gradually.”

I smile. “Like...as she’s walking down the aisle?” I joke. “I was just surprised about the marriage part. My mom did hint at something going on between you two during my last visit.”

“She did?”

“Mm-hmm.”

For the first time since I’ve known him, I see him smile with his entire face.

“Don’t hurt her, Badger. I meant it when I said I love you. You’re the second person I’ve ever said that to, after my mom, but I swear, I’ll hunt you down if you break her heart.”

“Alexis, I’ve been crazy about Marla for years. About a year ago, your mom decided to give me a chance. Do you really think I’d screw it up now?”

“Why didn’t you tell me sooner? I’m not judging; I’m just curious.”

“We were planning to. Then she got arrested.”

“And you were afraid I wouldn’t accept you two as a couple? Because I’d never stand in the way.” And it’s true. As far as I know, my mom’s never dated anyone. Now that she’s finally given her heart to someone, I wouldn’t be the killjoy who tried to ruin it.

“I think she was afraid. Not that you’d ruin things—but that you’d feel replaced. Marla will never completely forgive herself for putting you up for adoption.”

“I’m not holding a grudge.”

He nods, but I don’t think he fully believes me.

“I mean it. I’m really not.”

“I believe you. But either way, that’s what shaped you into who you are today.”

“And who am I?”

“Wary and guarded with the rest of the world—even with that sweet smile.”

“That’s the second time someone’s called me a liar today.”

“I didn’t mean you’re a liar. I meant you’re extremely cautious.”

“I only give my love to a few. I don’t like wasting it.”

“Love is never a waste.”

“Are you turning into a romantic, Badger?”

“I think I’ve always been a British gentleman. I just needed my Marla to draw it out of me,” he says, smiling as he returns to the stove.

At eight o’clock sharp, I’m watching the front door so intently that I nearly bump into a waiter.

I’ve thought a lot about what Badger said—and also about what the gorgeous stranger told me: that I hide what I feel and think.

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