“The thing is you didn’t do it out of malice or to get your sick jollies or even out of being psychotic.
“I’m glad you can see that.”
He winked. “I’m a psychiatrist, remember?”
“For children.”
He waved a hand. “That doesn’t mean I can’t identify crazy adults.”
“T-Thanks…I think.”
“Because of my job, I see you better than Sarah does. I see why you made the poor choices you did. You might be the Beast, but deep down, you’re just a scared little boy desperate for love and acceptance.”
With a growl, I replied, “Fuck. You.”
“Not. the. Enemy,” he shot back.
A frustrated breath rushed from my lips. “Fine. You’re right.” I jerked my hand through my hair before pinning him with a pleading look. “Just t-tell me what t-to d-do. If I have to g-give my life for her, I’ll do it.
Hudson’s expression softened. “I know you would. No one has ever fought for her like I have. Like she deserves.” He gave me a pointed look. “Like you are.”
“And I’ll keep d-doing it.”
“That’s why I’ll do whatever I can to get the two of you back together.”
“She’s cut me off everywhere.”
“Not everywhere.” When I furrowed my brows at him, he said, “Tomorrow night’s the Night to Remember dance, isn’t it?”
While I’d wanted to forget, my sweet date wouldn’t let me. She’d sent me a text with the color of her dress so I could get her the right flowers. Although I imagined I wouldn’t be welcome by anyone but her, I couldn’t let her down.
“Yeah. It is.”
“Sarah doesn’t think you’re going to show. In fact, she’s guilted me into being Molly’s date.”
“Fuck,” I muttered.
“I love Sammy like he’s my own, but I work with kids and teens all day. The last thing I want to do is spend my Friday night with them.”
“They’re not t-teens.”
“I know. But a lot of the dates and volunteers are.”
“Does Sarah know you how you feel?”
Hudson snorted. “Yes. She called me a selfish tool.”
A much needed laugh burst from my lips. “T-That’s my girl. Always t-telling it like it is.”
“I’ll be there tomorrow night, but you better show up.”
“I will. I swear.”
With a nod, Hudson replied, “Good. Now get the fuck out of here before Sarah thinks I’ve changed allegiances.”
“But you have,” I protested.
He rolled his eyes. “She can’t know that.”
