Page 116 of Contentious

“You’re getting better at saying the word.”

“It doesn’t exactly roll off the tongue.”

“Because you’ve never said it before.”

“You’ve found me out.”

“You’re not going to suddenly change your mind about this, are you?”

“I don’t think so.” Carson wanted to give her a guarantee, but such things weren’t possible in situations like this. He knew better than most how often “relationships” didn’t work out.

She kept her head on his chest while he ran his fingers through her hair, feeling calmer than he would’ve expected after making a commitment to a woman for the first time in his life.

Their interlude was interrupted by his ringing phone.

Cresley fished it out of his pocket and handed it to him.

“It’s my mom.”

“You should take that.” When she would’ve gotten up, he kept her right where she was. “Don’t go.” He slid the button to take the call. “Hi, Mom.”

“I heard you got released.”

“I did.”

“How’re you feeling?”

“I’m doing okay.”

“Where are you?”

“With my friend Cresley in the Canyon. We’re hiding out in Isla’s rental until Cresley’s ex is found.”

“Is it safe for you to be there?”

“Yes, Mother. Don’t worry.”

“Well, that’s not likely. Can we visit?”

“Sure. Just give me a day or two to get settled, and I’ll send you the address.”

“Do you need anything?”

He buried his fingers in Cresley’s soft hair, surprised by the profound contentment that came with having someone to call his own. “I’ve got everything I need.”

* * *

“What did he say?” Corbin asked Kate after she spoke with Carson.

“That he’s with Cresley and has everything he needs.”

“So that’s an official thing, then?”

“Who knows with our children? They don’t kiss and tell.”

“Can we see him?”

“He said to give him a couple of days to get settled, and he’ll send me the address. They’re staying at Isla’s rental in the Canyon while Cresley’s ex is still on the lam.”