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AMBER
My body aches from Cole’s assault, so he carries me back to the farm cradled in his arms.
His chest is massive, bulging with muscles so beefy it’s a wonder his skin doesn’t split. A god among men, if there ever was one.
I hadn’t intended to reveal my secret. I’d considered it a risk, and it’s my job as a mother to protect Seth. I’ll gladly do so with my life.
But I trust Cole. Even if he doesn’t want me.
“So, did the dead really breach the farm?”
Cole chuckles. “No, you’re just gullible.”
“Selina is going to make my life miserable.”
“No, she won’t.”
“Let’s not sugarcoat things. She hates me.”
“That did before she knew what you were up against. We couldn’t quite figure you out and thought that you were somehow related to Gunther. You having a kid never crossed our minds because…”
“I’m so young.”
“Yeah.”
“If the tables were turned, I’d still want to stab her.”
“Give it time.”
“Why won’t you claim me?”
“I had my chance at happiness and I blew it.”
“If you don’t mind me asking—”
“I do mind you asking.”
Hearing the strain in his voice, I pivot the conversation. “Do I get to go unclaimed?”
“No.”
“That’s bullshit!”
“It’s a good fucking deal.”
“At least tell me why you refuse me.”
Sadness washes over his face, and I almost regret prodding him.
“My wife, Carolyn, was troubled. I ignored the shit that was going on in my home, deploying again and again, because no matter how much money I made, it was never enough. I didn’t understand that the sweet girl I’d married could have a dirty secret.”
“Drugs?” I guess.
“Yeah.”
“I’m sorry.”
