Page 228 of Iced Up Love: Part Two
“You’re not dealing with that alone,” he says. “Not ever again.”
I look at him for a long moment. Then nod.
“Okay.”
That’s enough. For now. He exhales softly, like something in him eases just from that, then looks back at his phone.
“Alright,” he mutters. “Let’s do it.”
I watch him as he taps the screen. As he hesitates for just a second. Then hits publish.
And just like that, it’s out there.
The shift is immediate. His phone lights up. Then again. Then again. Notifications stacking over each other so fast it’s almost ridiculous.
I let out a quiet breath.
“God,” I murmur. “That was quick.”
He huffs a short laugh, but there’s no real amusement in it.
“It’s been weeks since I posted,” he says. “They were waiting.”
Of course they were. He sets the phone down on the table like it’s suddenly heavier than it was a second ago.
“Are you okay?” he asks again.
I nod, more certain this time.
“I will be,” I say. “It’s just… a lot.”
“It won’t touch you,” he says, sharper now. “I won’t let it.”
I don’t argue. Because I know he means it. Even if I also know some things can’t be stopped. Zach returns then, setting a mug of ginger tea in front of me along with a plate.
“Eat,” he says softly. “It’ll help.”
I take a small sip, the warmth settling into my stomach, easing the lingering nausea just enough.
“Thank you.”
He brushes his fingers through my hair absently, affectionate, grounding.
“We’ve got you,” he murmurs.
I nod, letting that settle. Jackson leans back slightly, dragging a hand through his hair.
“You know the game this weekend is away,” he says.
I glance at him.
“I think I know that.”
He huffs a quiet laugh, then his expression softens.
“I’m going to miss you.”
The honesty in it hits me more than I expect.
