Page 35 of Make It Last

“That’s one way to put it.”

“I can’t even imagine trusting someone again.”

“No?” he asked, his voice dropping an octave.

I used to believe in the simple math of love: be good, give love, get it back. But that math didn’t work for me.

“I don’t know,” I finally admitted. The words slipped out before I could stop them. “I thought if I did all the right things, it would work out. I thought if I loved hard enough and showed up, it would work out.” I took a breath. “Turns out, that wasn’t the equation.”

Silence fell between us. I looked up to find Tanner still watching me. There was no pity in his eyes, just understanding. He had a steady energy. Not boring, not even close.

Chapter Fifteen

Tanner

Beige, my ass

I studied Ava, my heart aching for her. Although her default mode was to use humor to deflect, her bruised emotions shimmered under the surface at this moment. I hated that someone caused her pain.

I wasn’t thinking when I reached for her hand on the counter, curling mine over hers. She blinked before her eyes widened slightly. After a beat, she curled her fingers into mine and squeezed.

“Look,” I began. “I’m not an expert. My one serious relationship didn’t exactly end well, but I still think it’s worth trusting again.”

“Who do you trust, Tanner?” Her tone was somber, her brows arching up and doubt flashing in her gaze, almost defiantly.

“Everyone on my hotshot crew.”

She sputtered a laugh. “Well, that’s good.”

“My mom,” I added. Maybe we had some baggage there, but I did trust her now. “And my sister.”

“What about your dad?” she asked carefully. “I know you said he passed, but…”

I shook my head before she finished. “Didn’t trust him,” I said simply.

She looked surprised, drawing back just a little. “Why?”

“My dad was an asshole.”

Ava’s brows flew up. “Oh. Oh.”

“He was verbally and sometimes physically abusive to all of us.” I’d learned to say it plainly.

“Well, I’m sorry,” she murmured. “Maybe I have some issues with my parents, but they’re not that.” When she squeezed my hand again, my heart twisted.

“It’s okay,” I said. “I’ve come to terms with it. He’s gone.”

She watched me closely for a beat before her lips curved just a little. “You’re a good man, Tanner.”

“I try,” I said simply.

Her eyes shone a little, but she cleared her throat. “That’s what really matters. To try.” She released my hand and took a sip of water. “I’m sorry about your dad,” she added.

“It’s okay. I was just being honest. It’s not like it’s a secret around town. Maybe not everyone knew all the details, but he was known for being an asshole.” I gave my head a shake, not wanting to dwell on this.

Ava tilted her head to the side. “Should we lighten this conversation?”

I chuckled. “Yeah. We’ve covered the heavy stuff for tonight, I think.”