Page 55 of Power Play Pursuit

A shadow falls over Elizabeth’s face. “Oh, James. I’m so sorry.”

I keep my gaze fixed on the road. “Yeah. I wasn’t exactly her top priority. That’s why I went to live with Grandma. She was all I had.” My fingers fidget on the steering wheel. No one except Miles knows this story, and it feels weird sharing it with her, but not a bad weird. It’s kind of relieving.

“I knew your grandma was important to you, but not that she was your only caregiver.”

“Yep. She raised me, and she was amazing.” My heart clenches when I think about her, how she always put me first, made sure I had everything I needed. I remember the way her smile would make me feel better, and the power of her hugs, which were almost like magic. No matter how many people I hug every day, I’ve never found one that feels like hers.

“I’m glad you had her,” Elizabeth mumbles softly, placing a hand on mine, now resting on the gear stick. Her touch has the same effect as my grandma’s smile. “She did a great job raising you. You’re an incredible human being.”

A warmth spreads through me. “Thank you.” Normally, I’d say something flirty—even if it’s against the rules—or ask her on a date again. But I don’t. I’m happy to settle into this moment a while longer. I think Grandma would be proud.

25

"Now, let me get you all bloody."

Beth Bowen

James’ story went straight to my heart. After getting to know him, I could tell there was another side of him hiding behind the goofy, cocky guy I’ve come to know. It hurts to find out how right I was. But I am glad he told me. It helps me understand him better, but it also muddies the water a little. How can it not? My view of James was already rapidly changing. Add to the mix a man who’s known loss since such a young age, and it completely shifts the playing field. All the flirting, the larger-than-life attitude, the show he puts on for the fans, it’s just a way for him to feel the love. Something to fill his void.

It also explains the connection he maintains with the Golden Age residents and why he’s so stoked for the Halloween costume contest tonight.

We’re going as Little Red Riding Hood and the Big Bad Wolf—James’ idea—and I’m currently doing his makeup.

“Stop moving,” I scold, holding the brush high.

“Sorry, but it itches,” he says, scrunching his nose. I scratch his nose with the end of the brush, being careful near his scar. “Thanks.”

“All right, let’s keep going.” I glance at the photo of the model on my phone, trying to duplicate it on James’ face. It’s not bad, but I certainly won’t be pursuing a career in makeup anytime soon.

Finally, I paint the last bit of facial hair on his jaw and nod in satisfaction. “Okay, we’re done.”

“Hallelujah. Can I see?”

I hand him the mirror, and he examines his face from different angles. Then, he howls.

I chuckle, shaking my head. “Much better than your raptor call.”

“Drat. I’ll have to change teams.”

I tilt my head. “Is there even a Wolves team?”

He looks up, thinking. “I thinkthere’s a rugby team called the Wolves, but I don’t remember where they’re from. I could play rugby. It’s pretty fun.”

I cross my arms. “You like your sports highly dangerous, don’t you?”

He barks out a laugh. “I guess I have a type. All right, your turn, Red.”

“Wait a second. You’re not putting anything on my face,” I say, taking a step back. “The costume alone will be enough. And I’ll throw in some red lipstick for good measure.”

“Unacceptable. In the picture we found online, the girl had bloody claw marks on her cheek. That looked cool. Besides, we already have the fake blood makeup.”

I look at the pic again. He’s right, it does look cool, but I don’t follow a grueling skincare routine every day to just slap anything on my face. “Nah, I’ll pass. Let’s go get dressed.”

He places his hands on my shoulders, forcing me to sit back down. And as usual when we touch, my body ricochets between extremes in temperature. “We’re doing the bloody makeup, Elizabeth. Come on.”

“Fine, but we’re doing a full skincare routine afterwards. And that means you too.”

“Sounds like a plan. Now, let me get you all bloody,” he says with a menacing grin, and I can’t help but laugh.

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