Page 38 of Three Months Yesterday

Aiden

Beckett’s a massive celebrity living next door to our sister. You think I’m not going to keep an eye on him?

Wyatt

He’s Ryan’s best friend. You think Ryan would be friends with someone who’d hurt our sister?

All right. Let’s move on. I’m more than capable of taking care of myself, but I appreciate the concern.

Aiden

You still haven’t said why you’re missing dinner and didn’t go on your run.

I’d be shocked if there isn’t more behind Aiden’s easy subject change, but I know my brother and unless he’s ready to share his secrets, they’ll never be revealed.

My eyes move back up to the stack of boxes and I decide to give him some of the truth.

I’m finally taking everyone’s advice and taking a day for myself. The only reason I step out of the house today is to spend time with Meadow and Oakley. Otherwise, it’s 100% me time.

Wyatt

GO MADS!

I’m proud of you!

Aiden

Well, I’m not gonna argue with that. Love you, sis.

Surrounded by dozens of journals from women long gone, I don’t hear the thunk of the screen door falling shut or the sound of footsteps on the hardwood floor. It’s the weight of a hand on my shoulder that finally pulls my attention from the words in front of me.

It’s reflex that has me grabbing the hand and twisting with all my might. From my seated position on the ground, I don’t have enough leverage to do any real harm, and I’m grateful for that when I finally see who it is.

“Oh god.” I release my grip and jump up, spinning to see him better. “I’m so sorry, Beckett.”

“It’s fine,” he releases on a gasp. “Geez, you’ve got a good grip.” His chuckle is forced and when he winces as he probes at his hand, I worry I’ve caused serious harm.

“I-I didn’t…” I stumble over my words having no idea what I want to say.

His hands are his livelihood. I’ll never forgive myself if I hurt him.

“Madison, it’s my own fault.” His hand comes to rest on my bicep, squeezing lightly while his eyes stay trained on mine before he continues. “I shouldn’t have touched you without making sure you heard me.”

His words are so sincere, as if he’s taking full responsibility for the fact I just hurt him.

“I was so focused⁠—”

“I know.” His hand falls from my arm and this time there’s a glint in his eyes to accompany the laugh. The way my shoulders instantly fall with relief would be comical in any other situation. “I called your name a few times when I realized you were here and not at your parents for dinner. I thought that was a weekly thing?”

My eyes move over Beckett, wanting to make sure he’s truly okay before responding. “It is. I decided to take the day for myself.”

His brows shoot up. There should probably be some bigger emotion coursing through me at the idea this man who’s known me for less than two weeks understands how big my statement is. But all I feel is comfort.

“Good for you,” he mutters. “I don’t think I’ve seen you take a single day off since I got here. Honestly, I think the only times I’ve seen you do something for yourself are your morning runs.”

“That’s not true. I was at dinner last week.”

His head tilts and his brows lift for a completely different reason. “Does that count as time for yourself?”