Page 41 of Fueled Fury

Fuck. He’s already accomplishing his goal.

“I’m sorry, Lainey.”

“It’s fine.”

Placing my hand over hers, I weave our fingers together as I lift her hand off the gear shifter and bring it to my lips, feathering a soft kiss on her wrist. “I’m sorry.”

She pulls away, resting her hand on the shifter, not moving to switch any gears. “Let’s just go eat.”

Definitely need to let this one drop. Only, I can’t get the thought out of my mind of her at the ranch without me there. She is the only reason I’d go there. I’m the one at risk, not her, but I don’t like her being there with three wolves in sheep’s clothing.

Attempting to refocus my thoughts, I ask, “Do you want to go somewhere other than Big Tobe’s?”

“No.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yep.”

“Lainey.”

“Really, Austin. Everything is good. We’re good. Big Tobe’s is good. I’d eat there every day of my life, given the opportunity.”

“They do have the best pie.” I attempt to joke, but there’s no heartfelt humor behind it. Everything might be fine, but it’s off.

After making our way to Tobe’s, we sit in a booth and order our usual burger and fries.

“Any more thoughts on staying at the house with me?”

Shaking her head, she glances around the quaint eatery. “I think it’s best if I stay where I’m at.”

“Okay.”

“You don’t have to stay.”

“Do you want me to stay?”

“Austin.”

“It’s a simple question, Lainey.” I’m staying no matter her answer, but I want a feeler for where she’s at—where we’re at.

“There’s nothing simple with you. But no, I don’t want you to leave, dumbass.”

A smile comes to my face. “That’s all I wanted to hear.”

She mean-mugs me for a second until the waitress sets our plates on the table and walks away.

“You know, there’re some races happening tonight.”

“Just practice runs.”

“What’s the plan for tomorrow night?”

“Dinner and pie,” she replies too quickly.

“You’re not racing?” I knew she wasn’t going tonight; I’d asked her earlier in the week and didn’t push but her not going tomorrow is different.

“No, I’m not.”