Page 79 of When the Smoke Clears

“Jamie said you’re leaving tomorrow?”

He nods. “I tried calling you.”

“I was working.” She sniffles and wipes her tears before they slide down her face.

“I figured. And I wasn’t going to leave without saying goodbye. It’s a two-hour drive. I’ll be back to visit.”

Maren throws her arms around his neck, and Will hugs her tightly. I feel like I’m intruding on something personal, even though he had his fingers inside me just minutes ago.

“Are you selling the house?” Maren releases him, wiping her nose with the back of her hand.

“No. I’ll rent it out. It’s paid for. Why not get the passive income? Plus, I have a good amount in savings. No need to liquidate.”

Maren glances past Will to me. “You should rent the whole house.”

I shake my head. “I’m buying an Airstream and living on my land while my barndominium is being built.”

“That’s so Grey’s Anatomy of you,” she says.

I wrinkle my nose.

“You’ve never watched Grey’s Anatomy?” Maren’s eyes bug out.

“Nope. I have trouble with medical dramas. I spend too much time critiquing them.” When I shift my attention to Will, he studies me with an unreadable expression.

My gaze drops to his hand. He should probably wash it. When I return my focus to his face, he smirks as if he’s reading my mind, and he makes a point to lick his lips again.

I swallow.

“I guess I can understand that,” Maren says. “I wouldn’t watch a wildfire drama.”

“Well, I’m fucking exhausted. So, let’s not make this too emotional. I’ll be back to visit before too long because I’ll have to do some stuff around here to get it ready to rent.” Will gives Maren one more hug and kisses the top of her head. “Tell Ozzy goodbye and give Sweet Pea a big hug from me.”

“I will,” Maren says. “Give my best to your parents. And if you need anything, please let me know. You don’t have to go through this alone.” She releases him. “If you need help with your dad or just someone to keep you company or help your mom, I’m your person. I can take some personal time off too.”

Will shakes his head. “That won’t be necessary. But thanks.”

“I’m available too,” I say.

They look at me as if I’m speaking a foreign language.

“Probably not the best idea,” Maren says. “Given your pasts.”

I look to Will for . . . something. I’m not sure what. Support? A confession?

He keeps his gaze pointed to the floor as if the grout lines are giving him a hidden message. His silence speaks volumes.

“You’re probably right.” I give Maren a tight smile, and if Will would have the balls to look at me, I’d give him a special expression too. “I have errands to run. Good to see you, Maren.”

“You too, Everleigh.” I can’t tell if Maren’s smile is genuine or not. I think so, but Will has me a little off-kilter after our encounter.

“Sweet dreams, William,” I say in a voice so sweet I nearly choke on the words.

He gives me a quick glance and a slight nod as if what happened before Maren arrived is nothing more than an afterthought.

No more smirking.

No more lip-licking.