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Groaning, he flopped onto his back. “You broke my concentration. Now I’m dead again.”
“Great time to do your homework.”
Lenny looked at me for help, but I put my hands up. That wasn’t something I’d get involved in. Ariel was incredible with Lenny. And I’d back whatever she said.
I pointed a thumb at the door. “I have to head out anyway.”
Lenny grumbled but went to his backpack, dragging it to the kitchen table while muttering, “Traitor,” under his breath.
Ariel followed me, and I pulled her outside, then closed the door behind her, pushing her up against it. My mouth met hers in a slow kiss, her hands resting on my arms.
I’d never get enough of her. She had me completely enthralled, and I didn’t want it any other way. Which was why the words tumbled out of my mouth unbidden. “I’m not going to live here for much longer.”
Her body locked tight, her nails digging into my biceps. “You’re moving?” Her voice was disbelieving, the light in her beautiful jade eyes dimmed. “Why?”
“I’m moving back in with my parents. And I want you and Lenny to come with me.”
Releasing me, she dropped her arms to her sides. “You want me to what?”
Her voice was high, and she sounded like she was choking on something.
“Move into my parents’ house with me.”
She gaped at me like I’d suggested she do a handstand while I tap-danced. “You’re actually serious.”
“Look, I know this isn’t exactly normal. But we’d have our own wing in the house. My brothers and sister have their own places. So it would be like having our own apartment.”
“I don’t think that’s a good idea.”
Grinning at her, I pulled her into my body, kissing the spot behind her ear that always made her melt. “You’ll love my parents. And I don’t want to move without you.”
She leaned back, her eyes wide, her posture stiff. “Jude, I can’t.”
The words hurt more than I’d thought, my insides squeezing painfully. Releasing her, I stepped back. “Why not? I thought we were on the same page. I like you. A lot. And I want you with me. Besides, this would help you as well. There’d always be someone around for Lenny. And you wouldn’t have to pay rent.”
She put her arms on my shoulders and went up on her tippy toes, placing a light kiss on my lips. She stepped back before I could deepen it. “I’ll think about it.”
Then she disappeared into her apartment.
I stayed rooted to the spot for a long time, wondering if I’d read her wrong. Was I pushing her too hard? I’d thought she felt the same. My heart was hammering in my chest, and my legs felt like jelly.
I stumbled back to my apartment, collapsing on the couch. That wasn’t what I thought she’d say. The hurt settled deep, and I cursed myself for charging in like a bull. I should have brought it up differently.
But if she thought I’d let her push me away, she’d be in for a surprise. Because I’d do anything to keep her close.
17
ARIEL
I should have been happy.Jude had just handed me the way in.
Moving in with the person I was supposed to take out was the best thing that could have happened.
But this was Jude’s dad.
And in order to be able to do my job, I had to put distance between us. Even though every breath I took seemed forced, my movements sluggish, I couldn’t afford to let my feelings take over.
I needed to keep a clear head. To put my emotions aside like I’d done so many times before.
