I give him a sweet smile. “It’s just a scrape,” I assure. “I’m getting a Band-aid.”
He shrugs, and glances away. “I’ll come with you.”
I squint at him, trying to decipher what he’s worried about. Something seems off. It’s clear he doesn’t want to talk about it, and knowing Jack, I should wait for the right time to ask. It seems like the more time I spend with him, the more I breakdown his walls. The best part is, I know it’s hard for him, but he must want this as much as I do. He’s trying to open up.
The last thing I learn about him is the sweetest.
He likes hugs. A lot.
Every time I end up by his side, he pulls me close and gives a quick, but tight squeeze. It never lasts long. He delivers a firm kiss on the top of my head, then lets go like it never happened.
Later he does again. And again.
As the orange sun sets, I get close to test him. Sure enough, he gives me a hug, but this time, I hang onto him. He lets me, waiting for me to end it.
Oh yeah, he likes hugs.
My phone buzzes and I check the screen.
Blake.
I slip it back into my pocket fast. I have to tell him when I get back. Tell everyone. I gaze into the distance, feeling numb. I don’t know how I’ll do this. I’m cheating. An adulteress. But the truth is, I always felt I was cheating on Jack even though I wasn’t with him.
My heart is his. It has been.
I glance up. Jack’s eyes are on me, but they veer, as if he didn’t want me to catch him staring.
Something twists in my stomach. I need him to help me through the chaos that’s sure to come. I can’t do this alone. I just pray his heart is mine, too.
Dread creeps into my chest like poison, consuming and destructive.
Because with Jack, his faith isn’t the only problem. It’s getting him to trust me.
I have one more day with him. I just pray this incredible progress with him doesn’t fall apart.
Chapter 41
Morgan
Heaven is wherever Jack is, and right now, he wants to take me to dinner. Our first date.
After showering — a very long shower — and changing clothes, we walk to a nearby seafood restaurant on the boardwalk. It’s cozy, and the rich scent of lobster fills my nostrils as soon as we step inside.
Jack holds my hand, following the hostess to our table. It’s nice to be in public with him. I’m dressed casual, and hope nobody recognizes me, but I am so intoxicated by Jack that I’ve thrown caution to the wind.
Our table is small and by giant windows. They overlook the weathered dock. Black ocean waters glitter under the moonlight.
“Feels good,” he says.
“What does?”
“To be my age. You make mefeel that way.”
“Aww,” I swoon. “So you like volunteering with me?”
“Duh.”
I snicker.
