Page 44 of From the Wreckage
“Brielle,” he says, his voice low and rough, like my name tastes too good to waste.
My throat tightens. “I should go before Dad comes looking for me.”
His jaw flexes, like he hates the idea of letting me leave. Then his hand cups my face, his thumb brushing my cheek, rough and callused, yet achingly gentle.
“Next time,” he murmurs, pressing his forehead to mine. “I won’t stop.”
My breath catches. I open my mouth, but words fail me. All I can do is nod, because if I try to speak, my voice will betray how completely he’s unraveled me.
His mouth finds mine one last time, slow and reverent, a kiss that feels like both a promise and a threat. By the time he pulls away, I’m shaking, clutching the card in my hand like it’s the only thing keeping me steady.
“Tuck the necklace under your shirt,” he murmurs, his fingers brushing the chain. “And put the card in your pocket. Before your dad sees.”
Reality crashes back into me. “If I walk in with a brand-new necklace and a card in my hand…” I trail off, slipping the pendant beneath my tee and shoving the card into my pocket.
When my eyes lift back to his, he nods. I blow out a breath, realizing the time has come. Even though I don’t want to leave, I know I have to.
“Goodnight, angel,” he whispers.
“Goodnight, Everett.” My voice cracks, but I manage a smile before stepping back. I turn around, blow out a breath, and descend his porch stairs.
The walk across the quiet trail feels surreal. The lake glimmers beneath the glow of the sunset, the air is cool against my heated skin, and every step away from him feels heavier than the last.
When I slip inside, Dad’s still in his recliner. “Hey, sweetheart. Was starting to get worried.” His gaze flicks to the darkening world outside the window, then back to me. “How was the hike?”
“Nice,” I say quickly. “You know me. I always lose track of time out there.”
He chuckles. “You’ve been like that since you were a kid.” He rises and walks closer. “I’m heading to bed. Early day tomorrow. Couple of new customers coming in.”
“That’s great.” I plaster on a smile. “Business is booming.”
He chuckles again, then pauses, studying me too closely. “You okay, kiddo?”
“Mmhmm. Just tired from the hike.”
He holds my gaze for another moment before nodding. “Get some sleep.”
I breathe out a quiet sigh of relief after he kisses my cheek and disappears down the hall. My heart’s still pounding as I grab a bottle of water, retreat to my room, and shut the door.
On my bed, I brush trembling fingers over the necklace at my throat. Tears sting my eyes. Because for the first time in my life, I don’t just feel wanted. I feelseen.
And that terrifies me almost as much as it makes me fall even harder.
I can’t resist. I pull out my phone.
Me: Thanks again for the necklace and card. They’re beautiful.
His reply comes almost instantly.
Everett: You’re welcome, angel. But it’s not even close to how beautiful you are.
My heart stutters, a wild and breathless beat in my chest.
There’s no coming back from this. Ever.
CHAPTER 31
Brielle
