He succeeded while I was in BUD/S. I shocked my commanding officer when I declined the opportunity to go home for his funeral. His death brought all the old anger to the surface, causing me to lose focus and fail out.
I waited for her to say something. She didn’t.
“The instant I was eligible I got back in the saddle, so to speak.”
“Is Shane still alive?”
“He is.” I smiled. “I spent Christmas with him and his wife.”
“I’m glad you have him in your life.”
Me too.
“Sorry, that was heavy for a first date.” I quickly corrected. “Even if it’s a fake one.”
I didn’t want a relationship, but sharing a little of my past eased some of its hold over me. I rarely talked about it, but Madi made it easy with her kind, empathetic personality.
“Please don’t apologize.”
“Want another glass?” I asked, nodding towards her empty wineglass.
“Thanks, but I have to work tomorrow.”
So did I. “How about dessert?”
“I’m full, but would you maybe want to take a walk?” Madi asked, sounding small.
Not wanting the night to end, I said, “I’d love to.”
Her smile was my reward, and it was worth its weight in gold.
“Is there anywhere special you’d like to go?” Madi grew up in Weatherford, so it stood to reason she’d have favorite places.
“How about the park? They have a walking path and a gazebo.”
“The park it is.”
This time, when I placed my hand on Madi’s back, she leaned into it. It wasn’t much, but it sent a thrill up my spine.
This is a bad fucking idea.
Chapter 19
Madi
Without thinking, I reached for Matt’s hand as we walked along the moonlit walking path.
“Sorry,” I apologized and pulled my hand away.
Well, I tried. He tightened his grip.
“We’re good.”
“But this isn’t an actual date?”
I hadn’t meant for that to sound like a question.So much for being a strong, independent woman.
“No, but we want everyone to think it is.”
