Page 101 of Outcast’s Vow

Both my boys lean in.

“What is it?” Fabien asks me. “Confess your sins.”

“I think I actually like Sylvie Levine.”

They both nearly choke in disbelief.

* * *

After our games of poker, Clement dashes off to get home to Elise, leaving me alone with Fabien as we leisurely stroll through the casino on our way to our vehicles.

“Was it true?” he asks me. “Are you falling for Sylvie?”

I snort.

“Falling is a strong word. I jest.”

“Jest? I know you, Baptiste. I can see when you’re telling the truth.”

“And what truth is that, brother?”

“You love her.”

I actually flinch at the word, and everything grows hazy. I try to focus, but the bright flashing lights of the casino around dazzle.

I clear my throat.

“You know what I think about love, Fabien. There’s a big difference between liking a woman and going insane over her.”

“Come on. What else could it be?”

I glare at my friend.

“No comment.”

“I can’t believe it after all those times you’ve told us... and now Sylvie has you lusting after her. Maybe more than lusting.”

“Be careful with your words, Fabien.”

There’s a slight grin at the corners of my friend’s lips. He’s not one to normally gloat like this, but he’s clearly enjoying having a moment.

“Okay, I'll back off. But you have to admit it is kind of poetic. The boy who always said he didn’t believe...”

I cut him off mid-sentence.

“Don’t put words into my mouth.”

“Roger that.”

“And what about you, Fabien?” I ask, turning the tables. “Have you ever been in love?”

Fabien laughs, but his smile doesn’t reach his eyes.

“Sure, I’m man enough to confess it,” he says, voice flattening. “Yes, I was. Once. A long time ago. And it fell apart.”

I raise an eyebrow.

“Is it someone I know?” I question.