“I didn’t earn my size sixteen ass by not knowing when things taste good.”
His gaze drops to said ass for half a second and darkens, but he doesn’t comment.
That restraint?It’s almost impressive.
“J.T., I think we need to talk.”
His green eyes narrow.
“No.”
I blink.“What?”
“No,” he repeats, calm but firm.“We don’t need to talk.Wedding’s in three weeks, Honey.You signed the papers.It’s as good as done.”
My stomach flips.“But J.T., this legal battle is going to be a mess.”
I hate how my voice wobbles.
“So?I can handle it.”
“You say that, but it’s going to be a lot.And I don’t want you caught in it.I don’t want your name dragged through mud because of me.Because of Mike.I don’t want you waking up one day and thinking?—”
“And thinking what?”he asks quietly.
“That I’m too much trouble,” I whisper.
There it is.
The ugly thought I’ve been chewing on since Evan shoved him.
Maybe I am too much.
Too loud.
Too emotional.
Too complicated.
Single mom with baggage and drama and an ex who fights dirty.
“Kelly, look at me.It’s gonna be fine,” he says, like it’s not even a question.
Then his tone shifts, softer but unyielding.
“Now get your fine ass out of that seat and come over here where you belong, Honey.”
I hesitate.
Just for a second.
Then I stand.
Because how can I not?
He tugs gently, guiding me down onto his lap.His arms wrap around me—big, and warm, and solid.
I melt into him.
