Page 109 of Asystole

And just like that, Stone Addario has walked back into my life. His verbal blunder buys me time to look at him. To really take him in.

He looks good.

He looks happy.

He’s still attractive. Still sporting facial hair, but it’s trimmed more neatly these days, definitely less bushman from the mountains. His jaw is still square, his nose is still perfect, but there’s a light in his eyes that wasn’t there the last time I saw him.

Hanlon.

I’m happy for Stone.

A smile spreads across my face as I realize that’s all I feel for him.

Swinging my eyes back to Chase, my heart picks up speed as I take in the man standing next to me. My reaction to him is entirely different. While full of passion, attraction, and respect, it’s missing that undercurrent of toxic dependency that I felt for Stone. That panicked feeling I’d get, like he was my only shot at happiness.

“Yeah. I’m here,” Chase answers. “Do you need me already?”

“Nah, Han just wanted me to confirm you’ve arrived. We still have about fifteen minutes before we need to be in our places.”

Chase’s jaw tightens as he nods.

“Logan,” Stone says in a tone of surprise, moving his eyes to mine. “Hi.”

“Hey, Stone. Congratulations, man.”

Stone approaches our group, oblivious to the tension between everyone, and claps his hand to mine before pulling me in and patting me on the back.

Next to me, Chase bristles, and I immediately let go of Stone and take a step back.

“We should catch up at the reception,” Stone says, making me laugh.

“I think you’ll be a little occupied.”

A full-wattage grin spreads across Stone’s face.

“Nah, those two”—he points at Chase—“haven’t really seen each other in over a year. I’m pretty certain this wedding is just an excuse to get them back together. If Hanlon thought there was any chance Chase would’ve married him, I’d be out a spot at the altar. Anyway, we’ll have plenty of time.”

Hmm.

“Yeah, sounds good.”

“I’d better get back, but it’s good to see you. Chase, see you inside.”

As soon as Stone is gone, I move my hand to Chase’s lower back and aim a fake smile at his parents.

“Would you excuse us for just a moment?”

His dad looks like he’s actually about to say no, so I apply pressure to Chase’s lower back and quickly usher him through the door.

Finding a vacant room, I push him inside and shut the door behind me.

“Hey,” I say, cupping my hands around his neck. “How are you doing?”

“Shouldn’t I be asking you that question?” Chase asks, his voice laced with concern.

“Me? No, I’m fine.”

“Stone’s a dumbass. I can’t believe he just pulled you into him like you guys are best fucking friends,” he says, practically growling.