Page 96 of Guarding Over You
“Yes. I was just telling Billy that I’m in a relationship. I’m letting you know to report to the courts. I don’t need to do that. It’s not in our paperwork, but I’m letting it be known.”
“That’s fine, but you’re correct you don’t need to tell me.”
“I am. Dr. Blaze Ridgeway, an ER doctor at Glens Falls Hospital. I’m not hiding anything. He’s aware of what is going on in my life and his brother is the sheriff of Warren County.”
Julie nodded her head. “Have you found out who could have done that to your tire or left the notes?”
She looked at Billy. He hadn’t even inquired about that. “No. But I’m taking precautions. I’m hoping that it was a mistake or that the person knows I’m not alone. Since it’s making the rounds at work I’m dating Blaze, I think people see me more, so more eyes. That’s a good thing.”
“It can be,” Julie said. “Does Gracie know?”
“Just that he’s Dr. Blaze to her and the neighbor.” She turned to Billy. “We spend time together, having dinner and doing activities, but we’ve shown no signs of affection other than friendship. I’ll keep it that way if I have to, but she’s not stupid.”
“It’s your decision,” Julie said. “Gracie hasn’t brought his name up yet.”
“She might now. We’ve spent more time with him since the last visit. And Billy,” she turned to her ex, “if you think I’m jealous or causing issues with you and Tina, you’re wrong. That is part of why I’m telling you this. You are free to live your lifejust like me. We need to move on. Iwantto move on. I’m hoping that things will go in that direction.”
“I think things are moving there,” Julie said, nodding her head. “Unless there are other issues.”
“Nothing,” Billy said, his arms crossed. “I’d like to get on with my day. We’ll meet back here in four hours?”
“Yes. And remember, you asked for an extra hour and I didn’t think twice about giving it to you. Gracie is looking forward to today.”
If Arden thought her ex would thank her, she’d be left standing there holding her breath until she passed out.
She opened the door for Gracie who was sitting there watching them. “Can we go now?”
“You can. What do you say to your father for planning this day with you?”
“Thank you, Dad.” Gracie moved closer to Billy and gave him a hug unprompted. She looked at her ex and then Julie as if to say ‘See, I’m doing my part. Do yours.’
“Have fun. Remember, you’re with Dad an extra hour for fun today. See you at three.”
Arden got into her car and drove away, heading to Blaze’s house.
An afternoon alone. Something she hadn’t had with him since that first night two weeks ago.
That night had started with fear and adrenaline. A desperate need for comfort she hadn’t been able to admit to anyone but Blaze. What began as protection had bled into something else. Something uncontrolled and undeniable.
This time was different.
No fear. No shaking hands.
Just the slow, simmering thrill that had been building for days. The anticipation of seeing him again, touching him again,and losing herself to the one person she’d felt completely safe with.
Every text, every glance across the hospital hallway, around their homes, had been a reminder. A promise.
She’d craved it ever since.
Not just the physical, but the peace that came with it. The quiet certainty that he’d hold her no matter what storm washed through her life.
She refused to go back to the emptiness she’d called love before. She’d never accept a relationship like that again. Never allow herself to be held captive by guilt.
Pulling into her garage, she killed the engine, her pulse already racing faster than it should have been. A minute later, she was walking across the short stretch of driveways to his door with her heart hammering in her chest.
The door swung open before she could knock.
Blaze stood there, his eyes dark, his jaw set with the kind of focus that made her knees weak. Before she could speak, he pulled her inside, kicked the door shut behind them, and pressed her gently but firmly against it.
