Page 119 of Merging Wright

“What else is it about? They both have an end goal.”

Camilla sighs. “My father wanted to reunite my sons. He wanted to bring Mach home to me.” She jabs a finger at her chest. “And he wanted my child to love again.”

“Well, two out of three worked.” I feebly smile at Camilla.

Her brows crease. “Mach loves you.”

“He doesn’t.” The sadness I wish to hide from her seeps into my tone. “You’ve known from the start our marriage was pretend, Camilla.” The bitterness of the words burns my throat because I couldn’t pretend how I felt. I’d fallen for Mach. I wanted to believe he was into me. But I’d been wrong before about men. It was no surprise I didn’t get it right this time either.

I give myself a little shake, ridding the negative thoughts as much as I can. “I need to get going. I have a meeting with Landon, and then I have a town to finish rebuilding.”

55

Playlist: “Make Me Miss You” – Sam Hunt

[Mach]

From the hallway, I overhear Jane’s conversation with Ma, and I am absolutely stunned. I didn’t believe any of that crap she spewed last night about romance not existing in marriage. She didn’t believe the things she said, either, but I’d put the doubt in her head. Somehow, she’d missed what I thought I’d been showing her all along. I wanted to be with her.

And the pain in her voice when she told Ma I didn’t love her . . .

Fuck. I had my work cut out for me to prove both of us wrong. Romance is alive.

Ma had been right. My first marriage was youthful with a rebellious heart and a penchant to run. This marriage is different. There is a calming comfort in Jane, and I’ll be damned if I lose her.

If she wants romance, I’ll give her romance. I’ll do anything to win over my wife.

+ + +

Dear Jane,

Five facts I know about you.

You still chew your lip but sometimes it’s when I enter you, like you’re fighting the attraction we both feel to one another. Or are overwhelmed by the power of it, like I am. Give in.

Flannel or silk, you’re beautiful in either.

You love apple pie with crumble on top and black tea with two heaping spoons of sugar, which means you’re sweet behind the walls you keep.

You smell like summer rain and taste like fresh beginnings.

You love big and with your whole heart.

+ + +

Dear Jane,

Five facts about me.

I can hold my eyes still when I look at you because you’re all I see. All my attention tunnels into you.

I’m just as comfortable in worn jeans and a ball cap as three-piece suits.

I’ve said my favorite spot on you is the valley between your breasts, but it’s actually the heart within your chest.

You’ve changed me in ways I didn’t expect to change.

I want you to love me.