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Some things never changed.
Chapter Thirteen
Beau
You crossed a line.
A giant red one that shocked with high voltage and permanently singed.
When I’d started sleeping with Cal, I hadn’t meant literal sleeping. And damn him if that wasn’t the best rest I’d had in I couldn’t remember how long. Even with a gimp hand.
Which was stiff and sore, but would’ve been a lot worse if it weren’t for his tyrant-like insistence.
He couldn’t do things like that. Couldn’t make me feel cared for and protected.
If I needed that, I could count on my brothers or my friends.
But it was different with Cal.
“Morning, Beau.”
I blinked up at Eric, who’d snuck into the kitchen without me hearing. Or maybe I was just in a daze. Millie followed close on his heels. That dog was protective of my best friend’s brother.
“Hey, Eric. Can you forgive me for missing our piano lesson?” Guilt swirled through me. How was I going to teach him with my hand in the shape it was?
“Sure. Things happen,” he said easily.
I side-hugged him. “Thanks, pal. Let me know when you can fit me in that busy schedule of yours.”
Hopefully it interfered with wedding planning and whatever else my father had planned for my future.
“Want to make deliveries with us today?”
I’d helped out when Lexie hadn’t been able to drive for a few days. It had been fun to help deliver their gourmet dog food. A nice change.
“Actually, I gotta jet. My father is picking me up”—I checked my watch—“any minute now.”
“He needs a hug.”
My brows shot to my hairline. No one would’ve ever thought that. Except Eric, who had the biggest genuine heart.
Maybe it would loosen up Father. I just wasn’t sure I was brave enough to try it. Snakes weren’t meant to be hugged.
“Could be.” I tugged on his bow tie. “Give everyone kisses for me. Maybe I’ll see you tonight?”
“We’ll text you.”
I laughed and grabbed my keys. There was nothing like a dose of Eric to brighten a day. Even one I dreaded.
* * *
How’s your hand?
It was barely after eight.He had no business texting me in daylight hours. Especially not with his . . .concern.
“There’s a his and hers walk-in closet—”
“I’ve seen enough,” I said, clearing the message and dimming my phone.
