Page 159 of Grand Love

“I told you to leave.” He walks to the small window and opens it.

“Joey—”

“You shouldn’t be here.”

“Are you okay?”

He sniggers then shakes his head. “No, Nina, I’m not okay. Is that alright with you?”

I step closer and place a hand on his back. “I will go. I’m sorry, I was only worried. You’ll call me?”

When he doesn’t say anything, I turn and walk towards his bedroom door.

“Nina,” he says, sounding agitated.

I stop. “Yeah?”

He walks to where I stand and palms my cheek, taking me by surprise. I try not to flinch, but I can’t help my reaction to his touch.

His eyes shine. “I’m sorry.”

The second his head dips, I pull away. “Joey, what are you doing?”

He stares through me for a moment before his eyes find focus on mine. “Kiss me. Just once.” He reaches for me again, this time grasping my neck. I turn my head to the side and his lips brush my cheek.

“Joey, stop!” I push on his chest and he stumbles back. “What are you thinking?!”

Tears fill my eyes and I stare at him, not understanding.

I turn and run from the apartment.

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