Page 419 of Power Play

“Three times.”

“That isn’t how negotiating works.”

“It is when you’re emotionally compromised.”

I laughed, but Rider’s expression remained serious.

“You’ve always been there for me,” he said. “Even when I was too fucked in the head to understand that I needed anyone. You never asked me to explain myself before you showed up.”

“You don’t owe me anything for that.”

“I know. That’s why it mattered.”

My throat tightened.

Rider looked toward the others. “I’ll keep an eye on these assholes.”

“Definitely watch Briggs.”

Briggs lifted both hands. “Why am I always the designated concern?”

“Because trouble sees you and believes it has found a father figure,” Rider said.

I clasped Rider’s shoulder. “Take care of them.”

“I will.”

“And let them take care of you too.”

His expression shifted. “I’ll try.”

“That’s all I’m asking.”

Rider pulled me against him, and I barely protected the brace before his arms closed around me.

“Thank you for always being there,” he said against my shoulder.

“You too, brother.”

“Take care of yourself.”

“You better do the same.”

When Rider released me, Aura was already standing. Easton’s hand caught hers before she crossed the space, and she looked back at him.

“Give me a second,” she said.

He released her reluctantly.

Aura stopped in front of me, her eyes red and her sharp mouth trembling despite everything she did to control it.

“I’m sorry I thought—”

“Don’t.”

“You deserve to hear it.”

“You saw your best friend hurt. You were supposed to think the worst of me.”