Page 60 of Reins

“Cade, I can’t—” My chin trembles.

“No, but I can,” he grunts, cutting me off. “Although, I might need you to pick. I have shit taste in fashion.” He gives me one of his crooked grins that makes gold flecks sparkle in his irises.

“Go ahead, pick something out.” He slumps into the couch, his shoulder pressing against mine.

Each one looks like something I’d never be allowed to own. “I don’t know…”

“Let’s start easy. Three shirts? Do you want any tees? Maybe a few more sweaters since it’s cold?” Then he frowns. “You’ll need something for warmer weather too if we head down to Texas soon.”

That makes my tummy lurch. “Why soon?”

His brows raise as he tilts his head to look at me. “So you can heal and grow, Ros. You won’t have to watch your back, you’ll be able to make your own choices.”

“That sounds terrifying,” I mumble, avoiding his stare. “I don’t know how to do that.”

We both startle when his phone rings. He pulls it out of his pocket and groans when he looks at the screen.

“I know someone down there who I think will be a huge help for you. She’s a great person to talk to.” He pushes up to stand, leaving my side cool without the heat of his body.

Who is the woman? Are they close?

Friends?

More?

Who am I to feel jealous? I don’t have any right to be. I’m literally broke and homeless, completely at his mercy.

And damaged in more ways than one beyond repair.

Chapter 30 - Cade

“Hey, Mom.” I lower my voice and move into the bedroom.

I need to get away from Ros anyways. I like sitting next to her too much.

Once she’s on her feet, I’ll find her a place she can call her own.

Guiltily, I don’t want it to happen for a while. She’ll get tired of me sooner than later though. I have no doubts she’ll thrive once she takes control over her life.

“Cade, honey, you should come to the ranch tonight.” Mom’s sigh fills the speaker. “I want all my babies together.”

She certainly didn’t waste any time getting straight to the point. That’s just like her.

Squeezing my eyes shut, I rub the heel of my hand against them and sit on the end of the bed. “I’m not quite sure about that. I have someone—”

“Oh, good.” Her tone rises. “Bring her too. That might make things easier.”

“No, Mom, it won’t.” I know she has no idea who’s with me, but the idea of bringing someone from the family who is actively trying to kill mine won’t sit well with anyone.

“I knew it,” she giggles. “What other reason would you come back than an old flame?”

Fuck. “Mom, stop,” I grunt, taking a deep breath. “I’m here for work.” Squeezing my temples, I stare at the door separating me from Ros.

Did I get more than I bargained for?

If I take her with me to Texas, how will I handle saying goodbye once she’s ready? I’ve had…no one in my life.

It’s wrong that I’m selfishly enjoying the company when it’s built on such a devastating foundation.