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“That’s not true. I just… I figured he would still be furious at me, especially after what I said.” Her chin drops to her chest, sadness permeating from her.
“He’s protective of his friends, but he’s very level-headed. Just apologize to him, Vanessa.”
Her smile brightens her face and her green eyes sparkle. “I’ll text him in my car.” A guilty flush crosses her face. “Thank you for the advice.” She looks from Max to me.
“Of course. That’s what friends are for.” I grab her hand, squeezing it.
“Happy to help. I hate seeing both of you miserable.” Max gives her a grin and I know those words mean a lot to her.
She squeezes my hand. “I’ll let you guys enjoy the lake. I’ll text you later, okay?”
Giving her a broad grin, I say, “I’d like that. I’ve missed our texts.”
She squeezes my hand, then pats Max’s arm. “Take care of her, okay?”
He grins. “Always.”
She waves goodbye, then heads to her car. I watch her go, waving at her before she backs out.
“Feel better, baby?” Max’s arm wraps around my shoulders.
I look up at him, a relieved smile on my face. “Much better.” My gaze moves to the sun in the sky. It’s getting later than I thought. “Now let’s go for that walk. You promised me you’d sit with me and watch the sunset.”
His grin widens. “Of course, beautiful. You know I always keep my promises. Let’s go.”
We hike around the lake, the conversation light and flowing easily as we head toward the top of the ridge.
When we reach the top of the overlook, I spot a bench beneath the trees. He smiles at me as I sit, then he lowers his large, muscular frame beside me, pressing his body close to mine. Winding my arm through his, I lean on his shoulder, my smile full of contentment. I feel his smile against my hair as he kisses me.
We sit there in silence, breathing each other in, as we watch the last of the sun’s golden rays light up the sky. It disappears beyond the horizon, changing the blue to vibrant reds and purples. It’s breathtakingly gorgeous.
Lifting my head, I look at him, my heart overflowing with love for him. “This is magical. Just like us.”
“Yes, it is. Just like we are, my love.”
Chapter thirty-two
Irelynn
October30,2018,3:00p.m.
“Are you sure you don’t want to go to the sorority’s Halloween party with Vanessa, love? We still have time to get ready.”
A shiver runs down my spine at the thought of being surrounded by a bunch of people in costumes. Halloween has always been one of my favorite holidays, but this year is different. After being held captive by William, then nearly sexually assaulted by Damian, I just don’t feel up to it.
Wrapping my arms around my torso, I nod. “I’m sure.”
Max walks over to me, pulling me into his arms. The second his arms wrap around me, the tightness in my chest eases, and I’m finally able to take a full breath. “No pressure, baby. I’m just checking. I know how much you love Halloween.”
My cheek rests against his chest, feeling his heart pound steadily beneath it. “You are so good at easing my anxiety.” Pulling back so I can see his face, I swallow hard. “I love Halloween. But in light of everything that has happened…” A long sigh escapes my lips. “I want to hurry through these feelings and return to normal, but I can’t. It’s one day at a time.” My eyes cloud over and become distant as the memories of being locked in that room surface. “It’s so weird being in public, around other people. I’m ashamed to say I got used to seeing only Emma and William, and occasionally Bryan.”
His hand cups my chin, staring into my eyes. “Baby, there’s nothing to be ashamed of. You endured a traumatic experience, and you are still processing things. Take as much time as you need and don’t rush things, sweetie. I’m here for you and will support you in whatever you need.”
“I appreciate you so much, Max. Thank you for being so supportive. As always.”
“Of course, beautiful. Always and forever.” He lowers his head, his lips capturing mine. My hands immediately go to his face, tracing over the stubble on his chin, then steadily moving, clasping behind his neck.
He pulls me tighter against him, his hands moving down my back and cupping my ass cheeks. His cock hardens, and I can readily feel it through the sweatpants he’s wearing. I immediately start grinding against him. Max groans against my mouth, his eyes slowly opening as he pulls away slightly. “Aren’t we meeting Vanessa for coffee soon?”
