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The last few steps to the Ferris wheel stretch on forever as it feels like I’m running through quicksand. By the time I reach it, my heart’s pounding like a drum solo. I finally see the booth Tanner was talking about, except it isn’t a booth. And there’s definitely no kissing.
My feet hit the brakes as I stand there with my mouth hanging open. It’s a goddamn children's storytelling tent, and sitting right in the middle, with a semicircle of little kids around her, is Maggie.
My whole body lights up at the sight of her. The kids are listening intently as she reads them a story. Her voice is soft and animated, her eyes sparkling like they did when she kissed me yesterday. My anger deflates into confusion and then relief. Fucking hell. She isn’t kissing anyone, and for a moment, I can't even breathe as relief slams through me.
Motherfucking Tanner. That asshole sent me here on purpose, knowing full well what I’d find.
I hear snickering behind me and turn to find a wall of Carrington brothers.
“Oh man, that was even better than I hoped.” Silas is barely holding it together, gasping for breath between howls of laughter. “He looks like he’s ready to have a stroke.”
I stand there glaring at all four of them doubled over like a pack of hyenas. “I was sure he’d blow a gasket before he got here,” Cole chokes out, wiping a tear from his eye.
Hudson has that superior look that older brothers always have, like they’re about to explain how dumb you are in great detail. “What a pussy-whipped moron,” he says, cracking a wide grin. “It’s embarrassing to watch.”
I grit my teeth and try not to look as pissed as I feel, knowing Maggie will never forgive me if I kick all their asses. I take a deep breath and dig down for whatever’s left of my patience.
“Nicely played,” I manage to say, throwing up my hands. “I can see you guys are going to give me a run for my money.”
Tanner chuckles and slaps me on the back. “Figured you’d see it our way,” he says. “We’re willing to give you a chance, but don’t fuck it up. I have dibs on cutting off your balls if you hurt my little sister.”
“That’s not going to happen.” I lay my cards on the table. “The biggest mistake I ever made was letting Maggie go the first time, and I’m smart enough to learn from that mistake.”
Hudson crosses his arms, watching me like he’s sizing up my honesty. “About time you got your head out of your ass.” His eyes flick to Maggie, who’s finally seen us and is frowning in confusion.
