We stand there, the space between us vibrating.
Then Lacee coughs in her sleep.
The moment breaks.
Sawyer steps back. Runs a hand through his hair. “You should get some rest.”
I nod. Turn. Pause at the hallway.
“Goodnight, Sawyer.”
“Goodnight, Tessa.”
In my room, I lie awake, staring at the ceiling, my body buzzing with things I’m not supposed to want.
Summer routines have locked us into each other’s orbit.
And I’m starting to realize I don’t want to escape it.
Chapter 5
Sawyer
Pulling back is easy.
It’s the one thing I’ve trained myself to do well.
Structure. Distance. Control.
The morning after that porch conversation, I rebuild the walls before the sun even crests the snow-capped ridge.
I’m already dressed when Tessa comes into the kitchen. Boots laced. Shirt tucked. Firehouse ready.
Professional.
Neutral.
She pauses in the doorway when she sees me.
The hesitation is small.
But I notice it.
“You’re up early,” she says.
“Always am.”
Her eyes flicker over me like they’re looking for something. Warmth. Weakness. The man who stood too close to her in the dark and admitted he wanted her? He’s gone.
I keep my voice clipped. “Lacee’s schedule today?”
“Library at ten. Swim lessons at two.”
“Good.” Silence stretches. She waits for more. I don’t give it.
“Coffee?” she asks.
“I’ll grab it at the station.”
