“But that night, I didn’t stop to think or check inside; heck, Ididn’t even call the police to report a break-in. I just panicked, assumed the worst, and ran to my car with what I had on me. I needed a friend.”
“That’s when you called my brother?”
“In my defense, I did try Ari first. I was frantic.”
“Did she know about him, your ex?”
“Yes and no. She suspected I dated someone, but I never talked about it. She definitely didn’t know what he’d done or anything.”
“That’s a lot to shoulder yourself,” he pressed his lips together, while sadness settled over him when he realized how alone I’d been all this time.
“I just wanted a clean slate here, if that makes sense. I wanted to leave it all in the past as much as I could, but New Year’s spooked me.”
“Did you have a support system back before you moved?”
“Not really. I kept in touch with a few girls from nursing school, but I pretty much kept to myself. After everything happened, I was assigned a counselor from Victim Services, Anna. She was an angel, but I now recognize the need to have someone here.”
“Are you not still in touch with her?”
“No, unfortunately.”
“I’ve got a list at the office with contacts if you’d like?”
“While I appreciate the offer, I do have someone in mind at the hospital.”
“That’s really admirable. It’s a big step. Again, I’m so proud of you.” A tender smile spread across his face.
“And I’m lucky to have you by my side.” I grinned ear to ear.
“Always. I love you.”
“It’s because of your love for me that I know in my head it’s the right decision. Last night was a wake-up call. I thought I’d moved past it for the most part, but when in reality, I think I just found new ways of coping without really addressing and healing from the trauma on a deeper level. I still carry an RF detector in my purse at all times.”
“You do?” His eyes widened in surprise.
“Yes, and I’m not ashamed to admit I checked your bathroom that first night.”
“I’m glad you did. I wish more girls took those kinds of precautions.”
“So, you’re not mad?”
“Of course not.” He scoffed. “Even if it brought you an ounce of peace and made you feel safe, then how could I?”
“Can you sit back a bit?” I asked suddenly, having an idea.
“Ah, sure.” He eyed me with suspicion in his brows.
I couldn’t help but admire the way his biceps tightened beneath his long-sleeved shirt, the thick cords of muscle shifting as he eased his weight back on the dock. Once he was in a better position, and I had enough room to not land myself in the lake, I reached for his shoulders and straddled his strong thighs.
“Lily.” His fingers immediately curled around my hips.
“Jaxon.” I coyly smiled. “So, I did something when we were in Vegas.”
“Oh? Do tell.” His voice was edged with intrigue.
I couldn’t stop staring at his eyes as they sparkled with a playful glint. The varying golden-brown hues smoldered with a heat so expressive it was intoxicating.
“I think I’d rather you remove my sweater.”
