Page 32 of Beating Heart
Oh, shit. You got a two-for-one deal. You found out that they were both assholes, so maybe you got lucky.
I think that’s probably true. And it’s been a few months, and I’m definitely over the sadness of it. But when I thought you were going to kiss me, it just made me realize it had been a while since I felt like anyone wanted to kiss me. And that is my strike three…
Beating Heart
Meaning?
I fell in your yard. I cried when you were about to kiss me. And then I admitted that no one has wanted me since I called off my wedding with my loser ex. Three strikes. Drop the mic. I’m going to bed.
Beating Heart
Hey, Chadwick?
I’m already sleeping.
Beating Heart
That kiss would have been fan-fucking-tastic.
I sighed and pushed to my feet and padded my way down the hall to my room.
How could those six little words terrify me so much?
I think it’s best we don’t go there. I’m here to figure out what to do with my life, not make it more complicated.
Beating Heart
Trust me, I’ve got no room in my life for complications. Let’s write it off as a moment of weakness. Sweet dreams, Dr. Chadwick.
nine
. . .
Nash
“Can I go to camp tomorrow?” Cutler asked.
For the fifth time in less than two minutes.
“Yes. As long as you’re fever-free today and don’t vomit anymore. But since you’ve been holding down the soup and crackers, I’m guessing you’re on the mend.” I settled beside him on the couch where he was watching his favorite Disney movie.
“J.T. must be so bored without me.” He shoved another cracker into his mouth.
It was hard to believe that just eighteen hours ago, he was projectile vomiting for hours. He’d rebounded quickly after a good night’s sleep, and he seemed to feel fine this morning.
I’d scoured the house with Lysol, so hopefully, this bug was long gone now.
“I’m sure he’ll survive for a day. He’s got Coop and Tyce there, right?”
“Yeah. But he doesn’t like when I’m gone. We’re brothers, like you and my uncles.”
I chuckled. “I get that. There’s nothing better.”
I glanced down when a text came through. I’d be lying if I didn’t say I was disappointed that it wasn’t from Emerson.
We’d had a moment. One that had caught me off guard.
But having her here in my kitchen… Those jade eyes. Those plump lips.
