Page 30 of Let Me Love You

Fuck. Now I really want to make a move to see how he’d react.

Before I can do anything, Sassy jumps up next to Archer and steals his attention away.

“You’re a sweetheart, aren’t you?” he coos, petting her.

Sassy looks up at him with big puppy dog eyes, and it makes me snort.

“I think she’s adopted you into our family now.”

He continues petting her, then turns toward me with a somber look. “Sometimes, I think about prison and try to find something positive from it, so then I’m not so resentful.”

“And have you?”

“Yeah,” he says with a smile. “Meeting your brother changed my life for the better.”

“I’m glad you did because without him, you wouldn’t be sitting next to me.”

“And there’s no one else I’d rather be rooming with. Even though the circumstances that brought me here are sucky, I’m grateful for what I have now—a nice place to live, a good job, and my very own pooch.”

I gasp when Sassy pushes herself into his lap. “Excuse me, show him who your mama is!”

She puts her paw on Archer’s arm.

“You traitor.” I scowl, but then laugh at how cute they look together. If I have to share Sassy with anyone, I’m glad it’s Archer.

CHAPTER SEVEN

ARCHER

Everleigh’s launching her new items at nine today. When she asked me to model, I hadn’t known what to expect, but I actually had fun with her and Gemma. I can’t deny the way she makes me feel. Deep inside, I want to give her everything her longing gaze begs for, but I can’t.

One thing about that day has been bothering me—the way Everleigh reacted to seeing that black SUV. After I’ve had a few days to think about it, I wonder if it’s someone from my past. Based on the numerous letters Chad’s family sent to the judge, they weren’t happy I was getting out early on parole. They’re the only ones who’d have the nerve to come for me. Well, more specifically, his sister, Krystal. She’s always been crazy and couldn’t accept that her brother was the abusive one in the relationship.

After finishing with my first client, Toby, I go to the juice bar for a protein shake. My muscles are sore from the lifting I’ve been doing after my shifts. I have full access to use the facility when I want, and it’s been a nice outlet. Working out has also helped keep my mind off Everleigh. She’s sneaking her way into my everyday thoughts even though I’ve been trying hard to ignore them.

“Hey! How’s it goin’?’’ Tyler greets me as Raquel hands me my drink. It’s just the pick-me-up I need.

“Good. Toby’s really enthusiastic about training. Nice to have someone who loves it so much already.”

“Yeah, he is. Lookin’ forward to seeing where he goes with it. He’s got the strength, just needs guidance.”

“Absolutely.”

“Did you see that Everleigh posted the pics?”

“No, haven’t had a chance to yet.”

“Gemma said she’s gotten several texts already asking who you are. These women are trying to track you down. Might be good for business, though.” Tyler smirks.

As soon as the words leave his mouth, two middle-aged ladies enter, and their gazes land directly on me. “Oh there he is,” one purrs.

“Can I help you?” Tyler asks.

“Of course. We’d like to sign up and have him as our trainer.” She points at me, flashing me a wink.

A booming laugh escapes Tyler. “I guess I spoke it into existence. Well, we can get you started, but Archer⁠—”

“What an adorable name! My single daughter is⁠—”