She takes a breath, recomposing herself. “But the thing that scares me the most is knowing that there was safety and security in not looking for someone to add to my life. I truly was fine being alone because turning off the desire to find a partner meant that I turned off any chance that someone could let me down again. I wouldn’t have to question someone’s motives for wanting to be in my life. So, the thought of switching that back on is...”
“Scary,” I finish for her, taking another step in her direction.
“Terrifying.”
“Don’t think you’re alone in that. You terrify me just the same, Reese. I’ve only ever wanted one other person in my entire life, and I lost her. Wanting someone again, opening myself to possibly losing you is fucking petrifying.”
Her head tilts, brows pinched. “Emmett.”
“But my fear doesn’t stop me from wanting you.”
She swallows hard. “Neither does mine.”
I take another step in her direction, risking it all when I ask, “So what are we doing, Reese?”
“I don’t know.” She throws her hands up in defeat. “I have this internal war raging inside me at all times. I feel calm when you’re around, but also like every inch of me is on fire. You’re both safe and simultaneously the most terrifying person in my life. I have never been so unsure about what to do while also being so steadfast and certain about you. I have no idea what I’m doing, while at the same time knowing exactly what I want. And, Emmett.” Her shoulders drop, every inch of her giving up the fight. “I want you.”
It’s overwhelmingly surreal to hear that you’re wanted by a woman who doesn’t need anyone.
“Say that again.”
Her eyes narrow with confusion. “Which part?”
“The last part.”
“I want you.”
“That’s the one. That’s all that matters.”
I close the distance between us, standing right in front of her.
Hopeful and vulnerable and terrified blue eyes look up to meet mine. “What if we risk everything and we don’t work out?”
“But what if we do?”
The words sit in the small amount of empty space left between us.
“Emmett,” she whispers, so clearly exhausted from overthinking all night. “I’m tired of fighting this.”
“Yeah, baby. Me too.” I drop my forehead to hers. “So, let’s stop fighting.”
32
Reese
My calves hit the chaise that lives at the end of my bed.
I’m not paying attention to where I’m going, though I know I’m at the edge of something big, seconds away from tipping over. Metaphorically, that is.
I want to fall.
Without restraint. Without worry.
I want to fall, knowing he’s coming with me.
My eyes stay glued to the stunning man in a suit standing just inside my bedroom doorway. Watching as he unclasps his watch from his wrist. Watching the methodical way he lays it on my dresser by the door so he can remember to grab it tomorrow.
Emmett takes slow steps in my direction as his fingers work at the cuff buttons of his shirt.
