Tate: Money isn’t everything. I know my father would’ve given up every dollar he had if it meant my mother could’ve lived longer.
Me: Most men would do the same, and if they wouldn’t, they aren’t worth shit.
When I’d thought Katie loved me, I would’ve burned down the world to protect her and the girls. I would’ve jumped in front of a bullet to keep her breathing, without hesitating for a single second. What an idiot.
Tate: I’m sorry to do this, but Alyssa is waiting on me. Have fun on your shopping spree with the girls.
I chew on my lip, wondering if…maybe…
Me: Are you interested in joining us?
The worst thing she can say is no, right? It’s not like I’m asking her on a date.
Me: I don’t know any of the places, and I’m sure the girls would love to have a female’s opinion on things. Plus, I wouldn’t get lost trying to find all the stores.
There’s a pause, and I hold my breath, staring at the phone.
Tate: I’m busy tomorrow, but I’m free Sunday.
Me: Sunday it is.
Tate: Talk tomorrow.
Me: Night.
Tate: Good night, Wylder.
I finally release the breath I’ve been holding for way too long.
She said yes, and for the first night in a long time, things are looking up.
CHAPTER7
TATE
Alyssa curlsup on the couch next to me and nudges me with her shoulder. “What happened after I left?”
“Nothing,” I tell her, staring out the living room window at the faint glow of the light from downtown.
“Wylder is fine, girl. He wasn’t at all what I was expecting.”
“He’s cute,” I say, doing my best to keep my voice flat.
“Is he a good kisser?”
I turn my head to the side and stare at her. “Why do you ask that?”
She reaches her hand out, pressing her index finger into the skin near my lip. “You have beard burn.”
I hang my head in shame. “I didn’t mean for it to happen.”
“Did he kiss you, or did you kiss him?” She lifts the wineglass to her lips and waits for the answer.
“The first time, he kissed me.”
“And the second?” she asks without missing a beat.
“I kissed him.”
