Page 68 of Dirty Zone

“He’s given you everything you said you want, but you’re still doubting him. You can give me the evil eye, but tell me I’m lying. This is exactly where you knew this would end up eventually, but you haven’t been honest with him. He’ll be furious if he finds out I knew and he didn’t.” Lo finishes his rice cake. “This isn’t terrible.” He examines the package.

“Eat the rest,” I say and duck my head.

Lo’s right and I hate it. Holding back from telling Mav my feelings doesn’t lessen them. My broken heart won’t heal faster if I don’t say the words out loud. I should’ve let him speak this morning. Now I might never find out because I’m a stubborn dickhead.

I don’t want to come between him and his parents, but that isn’t in my control. I’m so worried that maybe someday he’ll regret his decision that I’m not fighting for what I want. This mature version of Maverick is better than any fantasy.

Letting the man I love walk into a fight where he could be blindsided causes my lungs to deflate. Only a fool would let that happen.

“Breathe,” Lo instructs. “You could call him.”

I fumble the phone and dial, but it goes straight to voicemail. I send an emoji of a bear blowing heart kisses. “Someone should put me out of my misery.”

“Nah. We hang in there till the end. That elusive happy ending or…” he trails off.

“Or a life doomed to heartbreak and loneliness.” Sliding out of my seat, I pace the kitchen.

“He told his parents he’s loved you since high school.”

“Yeah, loved, past tense.” I collapse against the fridge.

Lo throws his hands up. “I can’t fix stupid.”

Chapter 29

Maverick Maher

I don’t trust my parents, but I won’t cut them out of my life yet. They’ll either prove me wrong or prove my point. It’s up to them now.

My head reels from the ridiculousness of the situation. Sky calls and texts. My heart jumps as I get off the elevator on my floor. I call him back, but he answers with a text.

Angel: Are you at your apartment?

Me: Almost why?

Angel: Don’t leave

If Sky hadn’t asked me not to leave, I’d be at a hotel. This apartment is the most depressing space. It’s the opposite of Sky’s cozy brownstone. It’s furnished with fabricated wood cabinets, low-quality rugs, and cheap appliances.

And my parents’ old furniture reminds me of my failings. If I were brave enough, I’d ask Sky if I could move in with him. But it’s so soon and he’s not ready for me twenty-four seven. I debate opening the team chat to see if anyone is going out, but there’s a knock at my door.

It’s either Sky or my parents, and I need to brace for either.

My heart rockets as fast as a puck shot on goal when I see Sky. I’m so relieved and furious and frustrated.

“I’m an idiot.” His arms wind around my neck, and I lift him up. “I got scared and I’m stupid. Maverick Maher, I love you. I love you so much it’s terrifying.”

I growl and shut the door. “You’re making it hard to be mad at you.” I sit on the worst couch in the history of furniture.

“I deserve it. Give me hell.” He braces for my reaction.

“You love me?” I ask, nuzzling his neck.

“Should have told you before. I’m so in love with you.”

“Good thing I love you too and will forgive you.” I arrange him on my lap, but no position is comfortable.

“You don’t have to say it because I did.” He stares into my eyes. “I couldn’t hold the truth in any longer.”