CHAPTER 1 – CASPIAN
I pull into Cole’s driveway as the last of the festival lights fades behind us.
My friend lets out a soft sigh, too tired to pretend he isn’t thinking about Xaden Bailey.
Bailey, fresh out of prison and back in Baywood. Bailey, who used to look at Cole like he was starving. The jackass who walked out of my friend’s life,claiming he had no choice.
That Bailey.
For the last four years, I’ve helped Cole build his life as a single dad. He
doesn’t need Xaden goddamn Bailey sauntering back into town and
shattering his peace. That is what’s happening, though. God, I hate that smug bastard.
While Cole goes upstairs to tuck Noah in, I put the kettle on and make him a cheese sandwich. It’s his favorite, and pretty much the only sandwich I know how to make.
He smiles when he sees the table, but I can see he’s fighting back tears.
“Why is he back?” he asks quietly. “What if he stays? What if he doesn’t?”
A weight settles against my ribs. I wish I knew how to help, but I don’t. Heartbreak is not my expertise.
Scraped knees, preschool runs, and 3 a.m. panic calls? Bring them on. Anything to do with love? I’m fucking useless.
“I can stay over,” I offer. “In case he comes knocking.”
Cole blushes.
“I can handle him. Besides, he won’t come.”
I don’t ask whether he wants him to. It’s written all over his face.
When I’m sure he doesn’t need me to stay, I head for the door.
I’m tired, but too restless to go home. The familiar loneliness starts closingin, demanding a distraction.
I try to ignore the path my mind wants to take.
It’s always the same path—the path that leads back to the cold rooms ofmy childhood home.
I slide into my car.
I shouldn’t complain.
Not when I’m so fucking privileged that sometimes I look in the mirrorand feel sick. Money will never be an issue for me. I live alone in an inheritedlake house and drive a car that would make most people weep with envy.
And when I want to get laid, I get laid.
That’s what I want now. Sex. A warm, willing body to help numb this.
I start the engine and drive toward my favorite bar.
CHAPTER 2 – ANTONIO
I nearly mistook my date for furniture.
It’s my mother’s fault. She thinks she’s an Italian-American Cupid.Obviously she’s delusional, but once she decides something is “good for me,” she’s like adog with a bone.
