When we finally pull apart, Marco’s eyes are red-rimmed but clearer than I’ve seen them in weeks.
“Will you come by tomorrow?” he asks. “So we can work on a new nanny contract. Proper boundaries. Fair terms. Elena will review everything. If you’ll have me.”
Ethan looks at me. “You want to go?”
I nod. Because I do. Because Ben needs me. Because Marco needs me. Because maybe I need them, too.
“I’m coming with you,” Ethan says immediately.
“That’s not necessary,” I tell him.
His jaw sets. “Jess.”
“I’ll be fine.” I squeeze his hand. “I promise.”
The look he gives me says he’s not convinced but he’ll allow it. Barely.
Before we leave, Ethan turns back to Marco. Hisexpression is serious again.
“You and me,” he says slowly. “It’s going to take a while before things get back to the way they were between us. If they ever do.”
“I understand,” Marco replies. He doesn’t make excuses or try to rush forgiveness. Just accepts it.
Ethan looks at me one last time. “You’re sure about going alone tomorrow?”
“I’m sure.” I stand up, brush off my jeans. “Just to sign the contract.”
Just to sign the contract.
Right.
Because that’s definitely all that’s going to happen when you show up at the house where you used to live.
Where Ben is probably having nightmares without you.
After Marco finally showed his face and admitted he’s been in love with you for years.
Everything is fine.
I give Marco another hug before we go. He holds on maybe a second longer than necessary. Long enough for me to catch his scent. Bitter orange and espresso and cedar andhim.
It shouldn’t smell as good as it does.
When I pull away, his fingers trail down my arm before letting go completely.
“Tomorrow,” he says. It’s half a question.
“Tomorrow,” I confirm.
Outside the café, Ethan walks me to his vehicle. Not far from it, I can see Jag waiting with Marco’s Range Rover. I wave, and his head of security waves back.
I load into Ethan’s car. My brother doesn’t say anything but his protective energy is loud enough.
“I know what I’m doing,” I tell him.
Hesnorts. “Do you?”
Absolutely not.
