Page 47 of Hard to Love

“Erica, Walker. The game versus Clemson, we went bar hopping and slumming.” Chet’s words grow cold as he lowers his voice.

“I remember being so drunk that I don’t remember much.”

“But you remember Erica, she had the good shit. And was absolutely fuck worthy,” Chet grinds out, making my fucking jaw tick.

“Yeah, well, that’s why they’re called one-night stands.” Goddamn it.

“But you saw her later.” Chet knows I’m fucked.

“Send the fax,” I demand with no hope of cooperation.

“I just pressed send. Happy reading, thank you for your business.” Chet ends the call.

Moments later, my fax machine begins spitting out paper after paper. All information about Hardy’s life in Charleston. All of it is earth-shattering. I gather the documents and start reading. By the time I get to the last page, I know what I need to do.

Hurrying to the copy room, I place article after article in the shredder. Destroying every word that stands to obliterate everything I’ve been working for. I’ll not lose Thayer this way; he can’t have her. I’ll do everything in my power to stop him.

As I work the shredder to eradicate this information, I check an incoming text, Chet. He’s just informed me there’s only one other copy of this, and no one will ever find it. I text a friend of mine who works in the field of hired protection. I want Thayer to watch twenty-four-seven until I can get her to marry me or get him away from her.

Hardy’s been spotted stalking Thayer. I’m not so much concerned for her safety as I am her heart. If he’s here, it’s because he stills wants her. He can’t have her; I won’t allow it. He’s no good for her. Besides, I love her. I’ve been here for her. She’s mine now.

Chapter Twenty-Five

Thayer

“Hey, where are you?” Lea stands in front of me, waving her hands like a lunatic.

“Oh. Thinking. What is it?” Looking at her and then over at Christy, their faces reflect precisely what I’m feeling. Sheer panic as we look like bridesmaid dresses. “I’m fine. Stop. I know what I’m doing. I love Walker, and in time, any love I have for him will dissipate.”

“Is that so? Do you love him enough to say you have more for Walker than you do Hardy?” Christy asks.

“How many people have lost someone and still find a second chance? Walker’s my second chance,” I say flatly.

“Or do you think he’s your quickest route?” Lea peers at me with her eyebrow cocked.

“Quickest route to what? More heartache? If I didn’t love him, I wouldn’t do this. I will not hurt him the way I’ve been hurt.” I glare at the both of them, praying it’ll make them stop. It doesn’t. Damn it.

“I’m not saying you’d hurt him intentionally, Thayer. I’m only asking if your love can sustain you, or is it a band-aid?” Lea knows me too well.

“Love triangles happen all the time. Mine is a little different. No other man is vying for my hand in marriage. Fucking asshole ran off.” I begin swinging my leg as I sit, trying to dissipate some of my nervous energy.

“True. But if they both stood before you today, who would you pick?” I may kill Christy before this day is over.

“You and I both know that’ll never happen. So be gone with your conjecture for today,” I say, flipping my hand to shoo her away.

“It’s a valid question, Thayer. What if Hardy comes back?” Lea’s face is full of sorrow as her eyes well with tears.

“I’ll be honest; today, I’d leave with him. Tomorrow, maybe not. Girls, I’m just not sure, but I do know I love Walker.” My voice breaks on the last few words.

“Do you love Hardy more?” Lea is tough as nails. She knows me better than I thought.

“I’m in love with two different men. Do I love one more than the other? Yes. But he’s not here, is he? He couldn’t stand by me when I needed him most. Walker’s a good man. He deserves to be happy. Listen, I know it isn’t the best situation, but Walker knew what he was getting into inside and out. He knows I love someone else but is willing to take me and what I have to offer. If he accepts it, that’s all that matters. Now, I’m over speculating about Hardy.” Standing, I turn to walk away. Lea has other plans; her words bring me up short.

“He’s here.” Two words. World domination.

“What? Who?” Christy looks around as the color drains from my face. I search Lea’s eyes for any trace that she’s bluffing. No. fucking. Way.

“One talked to him.” I crumple on the floor, my pulse racing as I struggle to catch my breath.