Page 51 of Sugar Coated Lies
It’s not okay. “Everleigh…”
She raises a hand, unable to look at me. “It’s okay. I understand. Thank you.”
I stare at her, aching inside, hating the disappointment on her face, and wishing I wasn’t the responsible person I am for one fucking second.
I get out my phone and text Grady. “Come on. I’ll take you around the side of the house, so you don’t have to go through the party.”
She follows me in silence. We head up a stone path with small lights in the shrubbery leading the way. Soon, we’re at the front of the estate, near the driveway but still tucked away from the entrance and valet.
“Everleigh, wait.” I stop, and she does too.
She gives me the quickest glance, as if she’s afraid to meet my eyes. “You’ve done enough for me tonight, Daire. Go join the party. I’ll be fine.”
I stare at her profile, willing her to look at me. She doesn’t.
As much as I hate it, I know it’s for the best. “Your driver will be here in a minute. His name is Grady. You can trust him.”
“Thank you.” She lifts her chin, revealing a slight smile as she stares at the parked cars lining one side of the driveway.
This is strong Everleigh, fighting through like she always does. My being around is only making it harder for her.Sorrysits on the tip of my tongue. I don’t say it. Instead, I walk away, hating myself for how I met her, for hiring her, for bringing us to this, and for having to resist her forever as a result.
Chapter14
Everleigh
I wakebefore the sun rises, a habit I despise on my days off, but my body has a mind of its own. A slight ache sits behind my eyes.Bourbon. Ugh. How can I be awake when I’m tired?
I drag myself to the kitchen, pop two painkillers, and continue to the bathroom, where I wash my face and brush my teeth.
I can hear Grandpa’s white noise sound maker through the wall of his bedroom. I bought the machine recently, so I don’t have to worry I’ll disturb Grandpa’s slumber when I creep around while I get ready.
Also, out of habit, I clean up the bedding on the couch and tidy up the space before making myself coffee. One sip of the hot brew and I immediately feel better. The medicine could be kicking in, too. When I sit on the couch, I moan in appreciation for the moment of silence—something I rarely get.
It’s not long before the quietness gets to me. I turn the TV on low and watch the weather, hoping we won’t get any afternoon rain. It looks clear, except for scattered showers this evening. Good. I promised Grandpa we’d go to the park today.
The alarm on my phone sounds. I must have forgotten to turn it off last night. While I have it, I might as well scroll through some funny reels. Cats always make me laugh the hardest. Three reels in and I’m cracking up, my hand over my mouth to smother the obnoxious sounds. I almost spill my coffee twice and have to set it on the trunk/coffee table.
Light knocking sounds on the door. I stare at it with concern. Did I forget to tell Carol I have today off? I hope not. I’d feel terrible about ruining what could have been a lazy start to her morning.
If the blinds were open, I would have noticed her walking up through the front windows. I open the door.
“Morning.” Daire stands before me in a V-neck and dark shorts, smelling like soap and man. His hair is a bit messier than usual, his eyelids a tad heavy from lack of sleep. Light scruff finishes his not-quite-awake appearance.
I must be dreaming.
I pinch my arm. “Ow.”
“Why did you do that?” he asks as I rub my skin.
“I thought I was… Never mind. What are you doing here?” Panic grips me. “Did I miss something? Is there a meeting?”
“No. No meeting. You’re fine.” He grins and lifts a key. “I brought your car back.”
My car! Oh my gosh. How could I have forgotten? I smack my head. “Thank you. I feel bad. It’s too early for you to be here. I hope I didn’t ruin your day.”
“Not at all. I couldn’t sleep; lots on my mind.” He taps his temple, his gaze briefly roaming over my tank top, skimpy boxers, and bare legs. “I also didn’t want to leave you without a car today in case you needed it.”
Aw. “Thank you. It was irresponsible of me to leave it.” And to forget I left it. “I’m sorry you had to drive it to me.”
