Page 52 of Forever Flames: Padraig & Stevie
“Ah, fuck…” I shake my head. “My mind is everywhere.”
Liam watches me, careful now. “You wanna go with her?”
“I’ve thought about it.”
“Seriously?”
“It’s just…” I pause. “I’ve always loved our music, yeah, but I’m not you. I don’t need the spotlight. I’ve always needed her.”
He exhales, rubbing his palm along his scruff. “I know.”
“I’m not sure what to do.” I gaze up at him. “I always thought Stevie would get her degree but tour with me. I’ve buried my head in the sand. She reallydoesn’twant to do this with us.”
“She loves you. Don’t be mad at her for wanting her own career.” Liam leans back and watches me carefully. “Iunderstand how you feel, though. Linus’ visa runs through school so there’s a countdown with us too.”
“At least hewantsto manage the band and be with you. Stevie can’t wait to leave,” I admit. “I’d go with her in a heartbeat, but I don’t want her to feel like I’m trying to cage her in.”
“You would be, though,” he says gently. “What’s in it for you besides her? If you don’t have your own plan it’s not a partnership. It’s pressure.”
I lean back and stare at the ceiling. “I’m committed to Fireball, but I’m not sure I’m making the decision for myself or it’s been made for me. I’m so focused on making sure you and me stick together and navigating Felicity’s chaos, I don’t even know what I want anymore.”
“You’re twenty-two. You’re allowed to not know. You’re allowed to change your mind.”
I look over at him, the ache sharp and close to the surface. “I love her.”
“I know you do. I’d fucking murder anyone who tried to come between you.” He nudges my arm. “Don’t let fear make your choices. Not about her. Not about the band. You’ve got more say than you think.”
“My head is messed up.” I’m utterly exhausted from the stress of all of it.
Once again, Liam doesn’t press. He knows I need some space.
Eventually, he says, “Whatever comes next, I want you in it. I’m telling you, though, Felicity’s not the answer. We started this thing because we believed in it. We believed in each other.”
I nod, fighting tears.
“You’re my anchor.” He leans over and pecks my temple. “Always have been.”
He doesn’t say more. Doesn’t need to.
I know what my future is.
Will Stevie be by my side?
Only time will tell.
fourteen
Stevie
The Next Morning
He’salreadyinsidemewhen I open my eyes.
Our bodies fit the way they always have. Perfect. Familiar. Everything I’ve ever needed.
Not enough to quiet the ache building in my chest.
Padraig’s forehead is buried in my neck. His arms are braced on either side of my head like he’s holding himself upright withmuscle memory alone. We move in a rhythm so old it’s tattooed into my spine. Slow. Deep. A little ragged. He kisses me mid-thrust, mouth hot and open, tongue sweeping mine like it’s been six months since Switzerland and not six hours since the last time.
