Page 90 of When Forever Falls Apart

“You mean your brother and my sister? Why do we have to say anything right now? I want to enjoy us without anyone else interfering. Aston is cool, but Eva is all over the place.”

Madelina curls up into my arms. “So, there still are no strings attached?”

I lift her chin so our eyes meet. “I just want you, Bugs. That’s it.”

With a sated expression, she falls back against my chest. “I just want you, too, but wouldn’t it be easier if we told everyone we’re together?”

“So they can voice their opinions and get involved?”

“You have a point… I do enjoy our little cocoon here.”

Not long after, she falls asleep in my arms as I watch her with a smile. On the nightstand, my phone pings with a notification. I reach over to read the screen, careful not to wake her with my movement.

The moment I see the email is from Jacques Dupont, my heart skips a beat.

Dear Elliot,

I am excited to offer you the position of Chef Exécutif at my new restaurant Étage Bleu in Saint-Tropez. A talent like yours is a rare find.

Let’s schedule a call tomorrow. We’ll expect you in Saint-Tropez by the end of next week.

Salutations,

Jacques Dupont

My body tenses, the shift stirring Madelina from her slumber. Gradually, she blinks awake, her eyes fluttering open to find me perched beside her, my phone grasped loosely in my hand.

“Is everything okay?” she whispers.

I gently set my phone down, its glow fading into the shadows, and lean down to place a kiss on the top of her head. “Everything is fine, Bugs. Get some rest, tomorrow is a new day.”

As she drifts back into the peaceful embrace of sleep, nestled against me, I lie here burdened by the decisions hanging over me.

It’s crunch time.

I either choose the dream job I’ve always wanted or choose the woman lying beside me.

Elliot Woods doesn’t fall in love.

Except this time, I think I have.

CHAPTER 25Madelina

The massive 16-wheel trailers rumble past as a wave of exhilaration sweeps through the café. Patrons rush to the windows, their faces alight with anticipation as they watch the large vehicles drive past, proudly showcasing colorful amusement rides.

The Cinnamon Springs Country Fair is a cherished annual tradition and one I’ve never missed, aside from last year. Myles and I were traveling to attend a gala dinner held by his parents and couldn’t make it back in time. I should have seen that as an omen.

“Billie,” I call out with excitement. “It’s almost here!”

Just like everyone else, Billie quickly makes her way to the window. “Oh, this is where I’ll probably chip a tooth because candy apples are my weakness.”

“Hey, mine too! And the funnel cake…” I bring my fingers to my lips. “Delicioso!”

“Last year, they had this onion ring tower. It’s a stack of fried onion rings, covered in melted cheese, and sprinkled with crushed Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. My God, it was better than sex.”

“Huh,” I say, then shift my gaze to Elliot, who is standing at the coffee machine. “I mean, sure, if you haven’t had great sex.”

Billie slaps my arm. “I’ve had good sex. Not great, but good. Nothing memorable if I’m being honest, but enough to get me to the finish line.”