Page 84 of Toxic

"Don't stand here and act like you don't already know this. I've always loved you. I've always regretted losing you. And I would have done anything—anything, dolcezza—to get you back. If I hadn't seen how hard Sean loved you, and how happy you were with him, I would have destroyed him. So if anyone understands Finn's obsession, it's me."

My heart pounds hard against my chest. Dante's dark eyes pierce into mine, but it's too much. I tear my gaze from him, feeling the confusion that plagues me all the time lately.

How can I have feelings for Dante when I loved Sean so fiercely?

Once again, it's like Dante can read my mind. He reaches for my chin and forces me to look at him. He swallows hard. Several moments pass by as he gathers his thoughts while intensely staring at me. He lowers his voice and states, "I'm not him, Bridge. I'm never going to be him, nor am I trying to be. I'm also not naive enough to pretend I don't know what you two had. But I do love you. I always have. It's not going to change or disappear. And I'm not walking away just because you try to toss me aside."

"I-I haven't—"

He puts his finger over my lips. "Don't deny it. One thing I've never been is ignorant." He kisses me on the forehead then steps back. "You should clean the mascara off your face before you leave the room. Otherwise, there'll be rumors going around all night. I'll have Arianna bring you some things."

He moves toward the door, and I call out, "Dante."

He freezes then spins, arching his eyebrows.

"I...umm..." I blink, but more tears fall.What am I even trying to convey?

He sighs. "It's okay, Bridge. Take a breather. When you're ready to come out, I'll be waiting."

17

Dante

Several Days Later

"Didyou talk to my mom yet?" Sean asks.

"I will today."

"She's going to say no," he grumbles.

"Let's try some positivity. We talked about this," I remind him.

He snorts. "You try living with her."

"Hey! Watch your mouth," I warn. "We also discussed showing your mother respect."

The sound of a locker banging shut fills the line. Sean grumbles, "I have to go."

"Wait," I say.

"What?"

"I called to see if you did what we spoke about."

"Jesus. You're annoying," he moans.

"Did you?"

"Yeah. I said good morning to her. Are you happy?"

"I'd be happier if you cut the attitude regarding your mother."

"Is this lecture over?"

I bite my tongue, trying to keep the balance of supporting Bridget and not creating a situation where Sean no longer trusts me. "All good. I'll let you know what she says."

"Good luck," he mutters and hangs up.

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