Page 126 of Axe Marks the Spot

His features ease slightly, and he nods. “I need to use the restroom. I’ll give you some privacy.”

I nod and pick up the phone, watching him walk off as I say hi to Kas. I smile when I hear her voice, and Dane looks back over his shoulder with a small grin of his own. Rightness settles in my bones, not only at the sound of my daughter’s voice but also because a man I think I’m falling for is moving so easily through my home as if he belongs in it.

I don’t know what the future between us holds beyond what we’ve discussed, but I do know one thing: I’m happy. For the first time in a long time, I can honestly say I’m happy.

DAILY CHECK-INS

Sunday, 12:00pm PT

Me

Sir, I finished filling out the spending tracker you gave me.

Sir

How did it feel?

Me

Scary but good. Like I have a plan to move forward.

Sir

That’s what we want.

Wednesday, 10:01pm PT

Me

Can’t sleep, Sir.

Sir

Why, baby? You need your rest.

Me

I’m thinking about you…

Sir

Anything specific?

Me

What it would feel like if you were here next to me.

Sir

Soon. Would you like me to call you and talk to you while you fall asleep?

Me

Yes, Sir. I would like that.

Friday, 8:01am

Me