Page 75 of Defend Her Heart

We both smile and utter, “Good night.”

Tamara pulls Avery to the elevator, but I don’t move. Once they’re inside, I wave to them both and watch the doors close before turning around and making my way back out to my truck.

The entire drive home I replay what Tamara said.

I did run away when Avery got engaged. The entire time we remained in each other’s lives, I watched from the outside, thinking it was enough to watch her live out her dreams as a spectator. It wasn’t until she got that ring on her finger that I realized I made the biggest mistake of my life. Maybe we could’ve made it work living in separate states, but it was too late for that. She had figured that out with someone else, and it hurt too much to stick around.

But now she’s here. There’s no ring—well, not a real one at least. But thereisa marriage. It may be fake but it’s ours for now.

Now she’s going to be staying with me, and I’m going to make damn sure I use my time wisely.

Life has given me a second chance and there’s no way in hell I’m fucking this one up.

I needto get Avery back.

Mack Attack

Get her back? When did you have her?

Fuck. I meant to send that just to Niko. I’ve made a huge mistake.

Jefferson

OH MY GOD. Mr. I’m Going to be Alone Forever used to date Avery? I need details.

I tap out of the group chat and pull up my thread with Niko.

I meant to send that here.

Niko

I figured. But I’m with Jefferson. I’m going to need some details.

Your girlfriend hasn’t given you any?

Niko

Girl code, man. They don’t gossip as much as us. At least not with me.

Can I come over for breakfast? I’ll fill you in.

Niko

See you at nine.

My phone continues to vibrate wildly in my hand, Mack and Jefferson not at all pleased that I’m ignoring them. I swipe down on my phone to flip it to silent when I see one last text come through.

Jefferson

You’re going to pay for this.

Chuckling, I set my phone down on my nightstand, knowing all too well that I’m in for some trouble the next time I see them.

I ring the doorbell to Niko’s house, glancing over my shoulder at the car in the driveway one more time. Niko didn’t tell me anyone else would be here, but I’m not at all surprised when the door swings open and Hunter’s face is the one to greet me.

“Morning, Smith.”

A grunt is my only greeting and I push past him into the entryway. Slipping off my shoes, I look for any signs of Niko.