Page 66 of Rumor Has It

Chapter 14

Mackenzie

Around nine, I crawl into bed. “You’re still a rock star, and a badass,” I murmur, laying my phone on the nightstand. Tomorrow is Sunday. I can sleep late and finish off the ice cream.

Closing my eyes is easy, but riding myself of Boone’s face, not so much. I toss and turn, reliving every word we said to each other. The pain written on his features, marring them, seemingly destroying us both.

Tears well in my eyes, it’s something I’ve become accustom to over the years. Crying hasn’t been my thing, because it never solves the problem. But many nights alone, waking from the nightmare I created, causes more than one problem.

I toss and turn until late into the night. I can’t get him off my mind, I gave up getting him out of my heart years ago, he’s rooted too deep for that. Against everything that’s screaming at me to not contact him, but to give him time. I do it anyway, I need to know he’s alright.

Hey, Boone…

I just need to apologize… for today…

Yesterday…

all of these years.

I didn’t expect to see you today.

I hate it was so hard on you.

I know I don’t deserve forgiveness.

That I’ll never get a second chance,

But she deserves a chance, none of this was her fault.

Just like you.

I’m sorry, believe it or not.

I wait for what feels like hours. Ridge gave me his number, he said Walker gave it to him at some point. I can’t even imagine why he’d need or want it, but right now, I’m happy he had it.

My feet hit the floor, and I pace for hours. I can’t imagine what he must be thinking, or going through and as much as I’d like to pretend this is all for her, it’s for him too.

And me.

I’m beginning to think he’s read it, and has decided to not respond when I realize it’s as late as it is. “Please, Boone. You said always.” No sooner does it leave my lips than I hear a ping from my phone.

I race to it, sending up a silent prayer before I open the text. I might die if he says he hates me, and never wants to see me again. Even if it’s what I deserve.

--Kenzie

Yeah, I wanted to check on you.

Sorry for blind siding you.

--Yeah, I just need to say I’m sorry.

--and that I’m thankful for autocorrect.

Lol, alright.

But I’m the one who should be apologizing.

Again. And again, until I say it enough.