Page 187 of At First Catch

But standing knee-deep in seawater beside damaged western dock railings, I suddenly understand something terrible. The investors were right about one thing. I can’t protect this place forever on passion alone.

My phone buzzes again. This time, I finally pull it out. Five missed texts. All from Hadley.

Warmth crashes painfully through my chest.

Even in the middle of all this, she’s still thinking about me first.

Hadley

Please tell me you’re okay.

Hadley

Nolan.

Hadley

I know you’re busy, but please answer me when you can.

Hadley

I love you.

Hadley

I’m awake if you need me.

The breath leaves my lungs hard. That impossible tenderness she keeps offering me without hesitation.

Suddenly exhaustion crashes over me so heavily I physically lean against the nearest dock post.

I love you.

I’m awake if you need me.

Nobody has ever stayed awake worrying about me before.

Miguel walks past carrying soaked equipment before stopping beside me.

“You look terrible.”

“Thank you.”

“You gonna go home?”

Miguel stares at me another second.

“You sleeping at all?”

“Occasionally.”

“Intentionally?”

I shrug.

“It’s been hit or miss.”

He snorts.