Page 113 of Peaks and Promises

“Your path led you here, and I don’t think that’s a mistake.”

“Maybe not.”

“Do you think you’ll stay?” she asked. “Once you’re sure your ex isn’t going to be a problem?”

“It’s so strange. We haven’t been here long, but it’s already hard to imagine leaving. Especially because this place is so good for Nate. He’s never been very happy anywhere else we’ve lived.”

“I hope you do.”

I smiled, the warmth of gratitude filling me. But there was more to her hope—something left unspoken.

I hope Reese stays, too.

Our eyes met, and it seemed that we understood each other. We both wanted the same thing, if for different reasons. I wished I could tell her I’d try to convince him to stay, but I didn’t know how. Reese had his own demons to fight, even still.

And I didn’t know if he’d ever let me get close enough to help.

CHAPTER 26

Reese

Minutes ticked by slowly as I stared at the ceiling in the dark. It was close to midnight, and the house was quiet. Usually, I could sleep anywhere. Bed, couch, floor, sleeping pad on rocky ground. I made it work.

But sleep wouldn’t come.

Closing my eyes, I took a slow, deep breath. It didn’t help.

All I could think about was Summer. Her warm body tucked against mine. My arm draped around her waist. Her soft breathing and even softer skin. Her intoxicating scent.

One night in a bed with her, simply holding her while she slept, and suddenly I couldn’t sleep without her.

That woman was going to be my undoing.

Something creaked and my eyes flew open. Was it just the house settling? Or something else?

Now that my senses were on alert, I wouldn’t be able to sleep until I’d checked. I got up, leaving the blanket on the couch, and crept toward the front door.

Dead bolt was locked. No issues there. I did a quick sweep of the house, moving quietly so I wouldn’t wake Summer or Nate. I knew I wouldn’t find anything, but I also knew I had to be sure.

All seemed well, so I went back to the couch. I was about to lie down when Summer’s bedroom door whispered open and she stepped out into the hallway, dressed in a fluffy white robe.

“Are you all right?” I asked, my voice soft in the darkness.

She came closer. “I thought I heard something.”

“It was me. Sorry about that. I didn’t mean to wake you.”

“You didn’t. I wasn’t asleep yet.”

“Me neither.”

She hesitated before speaking again. “Why don’t you just come sleep in the bedroom? It’s more comfortable.”

Temptation tugged at me. It would be more comfortable. And so much harder to resist her.

“I don’t mind,” she said. “It was nice having you there last night.”

The hint of need in her voice broke through my resistance. I didn’t know why, but I couldn’t refuse her. “All right.”