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I shake that thought out of my mind. This isn’t the first time I’ve fallen in love, but my head is telling me it won’t last. But I’ve never felt this type of pull toward another man before. Usually, it’s one night and then we part ways, but with Finn, it feels different. The thought of never feeling his fingers caress my skin or the way he literally takes my breath away when he walks into a room is terrifying. I don’t know if I can give him what he’s asking for, but for the first time, I want to try. My heart wants to open up, even if only a little, to see how things between us progress. But I’m terrified of getting my heart broken a second time because this time, I don’t know if I’ll be able to recover.
“Don’t tell me. Tell him.”
I really need to stop saying these things out loud.
“Okay, enough with the touchy-feely moments. I’m starving.”
He stares at me for a few moments before his arms drop from my shoulder and takes a step away from me. “So, we’re good?” His hand motions between the two of us.
“We’re good. Whether you keep this job has nothing to do with me, Campbell. Colt is the county sheriff and calls all the shots. My job is to make sure you make us look good around town.”
“I’ve been a cop since we graduated high school. I think I know a thing or two about wearing a uniform.”
“Maybe so, but it’s different when you’re surrounded by the people you grew up with. You can’t imagine how hard it is to get respect from the woman who changed your diapers.”
We both laugh loudly, the sound filling the room, and I check my watch before pushing back from my desk. “Not that I don’t love this trip down memory lane, but I need to head out of here for the day.”
“You’re not running away from me, are you?” His eyebrow raises in question as he stands, motioning for me to walk in front of him toward the door.
“Don’t flatter yourself,” I scoff, not wanting him to know how much his reappearance in my life has affected me. “I have plans with my best friend. You’ll soon learn that nothing happens here in Magnolia, so there is no need for us to be here all the time. If you need anything, Colt is here, or I’m just a phone call away.”
“This is going to take some getting used to.” He sighs. “Did you want to grab some lunch before you head out with your friend? You can invite them along if you want.”
I’m sure after everyone in town stops gossiping about what happened between us or forcing us together, we can be friends, but that is not happening right now.
“Maybe next time. If you ever meet my friend, Peyton, you’ll know why.”
“I look forward to it. Anyone you would consider your best friend is worth knowing.”
“I’m going to tell her you said that.” I chuckle softly.
“Just keep it in mind. My social calendar is completely free, besides hanging out with a five-year-old every day.”
“You could have worse company.” I smile and wave at Dolores as he opens the front door, letting me step through first. “How is your little one doing? I’m sorry, but I’m completely drawing a blank on her name.”
“His name.” He chuckles. “Ashton is doing great, all things considered. He starts kindergarten next week.”
“Ah, I’m sure you will be neck deep in single moms in no time.” I giggle softly, walking toward my car, and pause when I hear Campbell call my name.
“Does it get any easier?”
“What?”
“Dealing with the anger and pain of what she…?” He runs his hand through his thick locks before pinning me in place with his stare.
“Some days are harder than others, but someday, you’ll find someone that makes you believe that it’s worth taking a leap of faith and trying again.” I giggle nervously.
“One can only hope…” Campbell’s voice trails off, then he sighs. “Okay, I won’t keep you any longer than I need to. Enjoy your night.”
“Thank you for the talk, Campbell. I really mean that.”
“Anytime.” He smiles before nodding his head and turning to head back into the station.
CHAPTERTWENTY-SEVEN
MARISSA
“Is it going to get easier?” I mumble into my empty office as the sun filters in through the window.
