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“But I have one condition of my own.”
Surprised, though I probably shouldn’t be, I make a gesture for him to proceed.
He pauses, turning toward me and forcing me to stop too.
Our eyes meet, and for a moment he just stares at me—directly at me—an unreadable emotion passing through his eyes, darkening them. It’s probably the most intense eye contact I’ve ever experienced, and I feel my pulse quicken.
“Don’t regret this when it’s over,” he whispers. “No matter what. I want this to be a good thing, Nolan. Please don’t… ruin it.”
I still, my mouth parting, though I’m not sure what to say.
The age thing,I realize. He’s asking me to drop it.
Don’t ask me how I know that. I just do. And as tough of a pill as it is to swallow for me… it’s clearly a touchy subject for him too.
And I remember what he said, several times, about no one listening to him.
And I just told him I’m here for just that.
I think I’m beginning to understand.
His cheeks darken, and it looks like it’s taking everything in him to not look away. Hell, his eyes practically shiver with the effort.
Cupping his cheek, I nod slowly, and I tell him, “I won’t.”
His jaw moves against the heel of my hand and he nods back, eyes searing mine. “Thank you.”
Groaning, I turn away, and all but drag him to my room. “Keep up, or I won’t hesitate to throw you over my shoulder.”
He huffs. “You wouldn’t.”
I cut him a pointed look. “Bet.”
CHAPTERTWENTY
SKYLER
Nolan leads me into his private bungalow, andno,he doesn’t have to carry me.
Pity.
Maybe next time.
It’s late afternoon, pushing evening, and nothing else is scheduled for the day.
I know Dr. Maddock is probably going to hear about what went down in group—and I shouldprobablycheck in with Kevin, in case he sent anyone else to check on me—but I see my therapist bright and early Monday morning. We can discuss my little meltdown then.
And Kevin…
Well, I’ll just have to cross my fingers he didn’t send a search party out after me.
Either way, that’s a problem for Future Skyler.
Because Present Skyler…
“You comin’ in, or just gonna stand there?”
My eyes snap over to where Nolan sets his boots down by the dresser. Gulping, I nod and take a step into the bungalow, letting the screen door swing shut behind me.
