Page 66 of Full Strength

“Let’s go.” I took Addi’s hand and led her to Erik’s car, opening the passenger door and making sure she was situated before sitting behind her. Erik got in and we drove in silence for the few blocks it took to get to the station.

This wasn’t how anyone expected their afternoons to go and the reality of what happened was finally hitting me. There was no way a judge would give Ryan paternal rights now. He would never, ever see his son. That almost made this worth it, but Addi had been hurt and for that he was going to pay.

* * *

“I feel a little bad. This whole time I thought it was that creepy guy I had to watch out for.” I hadn’t released my grip of Addi’s hand since we walked out of the police station hours ago. I needed to keep her close.

“What creepy guy?”

“The one that demanded a haircut the day I brought you lunch.”

She almost laughed but caught herself. “Oh Steve? He’s a bit demanding, but he’s not a creep.”

I knew that now. Ryan admitted he was the one sent her the anonymous flowers. He’d been keeping his distance, until the photos of us made it on social media. His friends and family had brought up how happy she looked and how happy they were for her. He didn’t like that she was moving on, and decided it was time to make her as miserable as him.

The police were still investigating him, but assured us he wouldn’t be coming near Addi or Eli ever again.

Still, Addi didn’t feel safe at her house knowing he’d been watching her there so we were at my place. I ordered in food and we settled on the couch while Eli slept peacefully next to us in his portable crib.

“Do you want to head to bed?”

Her lips pinched together. “I don’t want to be alone tonight.”

She slowly lifted her eyes to mine and I saw the vulnerability. “How about we just stay right here?”

She smiled and nodded, cuddling up next to me. Luckily, my couch was deep enough for both of us to lay down without falling off. But I’d sacrifice sleeping for the rest of my years if it meant she felt safe. I held onto her and kissed her forehead.

Today was a wakeup call. The desire to protect and concern I felt for her was more than just that.

I loved her.

I realized that while we were sitting in the station. All the emotions of the day whirled around in my mind and it all came down to one thing. I loved this woman more than anything in the world. I’d gladly give my life to keep her and Eli safe. I also knew I couldn’t continue living this way. I didn’t want to be apart from her. I wanted to be there every night and every morning. I wanted to help sleep train Eli. I wanted to change his diapers and make dinner together. I wanted her to be mine. She consumed my thoughts. I made decisions based on how it would affect her. I planned my days with her and Eli in mind.

They were my world.

I longed to tell her, but after all she went through today it wasn’t the time.

I would admit it all soon. I couldn't last much longer. Watching Noah take the next step inspired me to do the same. It was scary and I knew it might push her away, but I’d be there to take her hand and go through this together.

Her breathing slowed and I decided. She was it for me.

20

Addison

Walking around Grant’s house, wearing his clothes, eating his food, and cleaning his kitchen felt more natural than it should.

He left about an hour ago to head to the arena for practice. He offered to stay home to be with me, but I told him I was fine. Eli and I were safe here. Grant had gone through great lengths with the help of his assistant and lawyer to keep his home a secret. Sure, his neighbors knew who he was but they’d also signed non-disclosure agreements with a clause that if his residence remained a secret while he lived there, they would each receive a payout. It had worked for the past five years, so I felt confident we would be fine.

My concern weeks ago about the press and media finding out about us had waned. Even when pictures from the photoshoot were leaked, attention on him never increased. He was right, he was able to fly under the radar much better than some of his teammates.

He’d told me last night it was because he kept his private life to himself, so he seemed boring to the media. I was fine with that. Hartman and Erik and Noah could have all the attention. They were used to it. The women in their lives accepted it.

I wasn’t the type to handle cameras in my face. I liked my quiet life and going to work every day. I’d been so worried dating Grant would take that away.

Once again, he was right and I was wrong.

The fans liked him, but respected his space. The magazines and tabloids left him alone. He was one of the few that managed to live a normal life outside of their sensational career.