Page 95 of Wild Hearts

“I did.”

“You did?”

“I got there late and stayed at the back of the church. It wasn’t about me or your mother. It was about saying goodbye to our friend.”

“It made me realise that life’s so short,” I admit. “I still hate what you did, and I hate the guilt I felt keeping it a secret from Mum and Ivy.”

His eyes widen. “You knew?”

I nod and he winces again.

“I’m so sorry I put you in that position, Brady. I had no idea.” He shakes his head sadly. “But that’s no excuse. I’m sorry, son.”

“I’m tired of letting it consume me. I’m tired of being angry. I’m just tired.”

“So, what do you want to do?” he finally asks.

I shrug. “I guess we just take it slow. Maybe we can go for a surf once a week?”

Dad lets out a surprised chuckle. He reaches out his hand and I take it in mine. “I’d like that.”

CHAPTER THIRTY-THREE

Wren

BRADY LACES HIS FINGERSthrough mine and squeezes, all the while not taking his eyes off the television as he smiles. We’re finally getting some alone time together.

It’s been three days since the paddle out. I’ve never seen anything so beautiful, watching from the lookout with Felicity, Penelope, and Jemima.

“Will you stay with me tonight?” I ask in a soft whisper when the movie finishes, nuzzling my head into his neck. After not seeing him much, I’m not ready for him to leave.

Though as soon as the words are out of my mouth though, a panicked thought flashes through my mind.What does he think is going to happen if he stays over?He was my first, so it’s not like we’ve never had sex, and I know he didn’t try anything on the beach after the Baptism, but we weren’t exactly... whatever we are. I don’t know if I’m ready for anything more than snuggling.

He must sense the change in me, and he murmurs, “We don’t have to rush things, Rookie.” He kisses the side of my head and I relax again.

“I just want to fall asleep in your arms. I’ve missed you so much.”

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