I shrug, “Long shift.”
His hand slides to the back of my neck, pulling me in so he can press a kiss to my forehead. For a second I lean into him.
God, I needed this.
“I waited. I wanted to see you before I head out,” he says.
The words make my stomach sink.No.
“You’re leaving?” I ask, trying to keep the tears from falling.
“Club business,” he says with a shrug.
Of course.
“There’s still a lot we’re trying to sort out. A lot of activity. Too many threats.” He adds.
I nod. Because what else am I supposed to do?
“I’ll be back before the party tonight,” he continues. “If something happens and I am running late, go without me.”
I stiffen.
“I don’t want to go without you.” I whisper.
He hesitates, just for a second.
“It’s mandatory, Bex. I will be back as soon as I can.”
“Declan…” I try.
“Angel wants everyone there.” He cuts me off.
Behind him, one of the brothers, I think Cage, speaks up. “We’ll make sure she’s there, brother.”
Clutch nods like that’s reassuring, like that’s helpful. But mystomach twists. Because it doesn’t sound like reassurance to me. It sounds like a warning.
I step forward and wrap my arms around him anyway.
“I need to talk to you,” I say quietly.
He squeezes me tighter.
“I know.”
“When?” I beg.
“Later.”
He pulls back and cups my face briefly.
“Okay?”
No it’s not ok.
“I don’t want you to go.” I try again.
He leans into me and gives me a deep kiss. But the knot in my chest doesn’t loosen.