“I’ve probably been lyin’ all along about what makes me, me.” I lean in closer.
His lips find mine, finally giving me the kiss that keeps teasing between our hovering mouths. “We’re all liars.”
“Chase Holt … Austin Love. Which one’s really me?”
“You can call me TJ.”
“I’ll call you whatever you want as long as you’re mine.”
“Does this mean you won’t push me away again?” He kisses me once more, fingers finding my hair, weaving into it.
It feels so good, I’m instantly reminded of us in the hotel once again, cuddled together on the bed, fingers drifting wherever they pleased. I shouldn’t have left, even if it felt completely right at the time. I should’ve let him wake up by my side.
I don’t know where this could lead.
If it leads anywhere at all.
What if this is the only moment we get? What if Ian finds out three minutes from now, sends Timothy on his way, and gives me another harsh lecture about how a million and a half lives hinge on my behavior?
Any of the dozens on our crew could find out, too.
Gossip spreads.
Then boom, our big-ass secret is out there, Timothy’s safety is compromised, and there’ll be nothing I can do to stop it.
Timothy … TJ.
How can I protect you if this thing between us spins out of my control?
Suddenly he grips me. I’m pulled out of my head, zeroing in on his face.
“Don’t,” he orders me.
I blink. “Don’t what?”
“Spiral again.”
“I ain’t spiral—”
“Yeah, you are.” He takes me by the chin, surprising me, then gets even closer. “You’re trying to talk yourself out of this. Afraid I’ll get hurt. Not wanting to hide me. You’re convinced I’m the one in danger for being with you. But tell me, do I look afraid?”
I can’t look away from his eyes.
This boy from Spruce, this cutie who went and body-slammed my life from out of nowhere, he’s got my full attention, every bit of it, and no matter what I do, he won’t let me go.
It’s the first time in my life I don’t want to be let go.
I want him to cling. To claim me. To insist I’m all his.
“Did you ever consider,” he asks with a tilt of his head, “that maybeyou’rethe one here who needs protecting?”
Chapter 13.
Timothy—or TJ
The rain hasn’t stopped.
I don’t mind suddenly.