Page 81 of Rush

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"And what happens when that something turns into pain?"

"Then I deal with it, but at least I tried."

He's quiet for a long time, then he says, "I don't like this."

"I know."

"But I trust you."

The words surprise me. "Yeah?"

"Yeah. You're smart and you're strong and you know how to handle yourself. So if you say Rush is worth it, I'll believe you."

"Really?"

"Really. But if he hurts you, I'm killing him."

I smile despite everything. "Deal."

"And I want to meet him, properly. Not over the phone."

"Okay."

"And I want him to know that if he fucks this up, there will be consequences."

"I'll tell him."

"Good." He pauses. "I love you, kiddo."

"Love you too, Dad."

We hang up and I stare at my phone.

That went better than expected. My dad actually listened.

But it doesn't change the fact that Rush walked away.

Doesn't change the fact that he chose fear over me again.

And I'm done making excuses for that.

My phone buzzes. It's Rush again.

Rush: Your dad called me.

Me: I know.

Rush: He told me to stay away from you.

Me: And?

Rush: And I told him I can't.

I stare at the message and my chest tightens.

Me: What does that mean?

Rush: It means I'm done running. If you'll still have me.

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