Page 169 of Broken
Prescott joined them. “Ethan, you’re a ball of energy.”
Ethan took her hand and started tugging her toward the building. “I want to show you my cubby, and my table, and where we sit for circle time, and I want Miss Nancy to see Loki.”
“I would love to come inside, but Loki can’t. Maybe Uncle Prescott can wait with Loki.”
“Okay, hurry.” Ethan took off toward the entrance.
“He’s so sweet.” She handed Prescott the leash.
“I added you to the drop-off and pick-up list,” he said.
She dropped a quick peck on his lips before hurrying to catch up to Ethan, who waited by the entrance. She opened the door and he bolted inside. As she turned back toward Preston, he was watching her.
She held his gaze for an extra second, so much love flowing between them.
I lusted him, I hated him, and now I can’t live without him.
Ethan showed her his cubby, his table, and where they sat for circle time. Ethan was pure energy… and pure light. His enthusiasm made her soul happy.
A young woman approached the table. “Hi, I’m Nancy. You must be Jack. Ethan talks about you and Loki all the time.”
“I’m happy to hear that,” Jacqueline replied.
“You’re the envy of the entire school,” Nancy whispered. “All the teachers have the biggest crush on Mr. Armstrong.” Her cheeks pinked. “I probably shouldn’t say anything, but mygod, he’s so hot.”
Jacqueline smiled, but didn’t comment on the hot Mr. Prescott. Instead, she asked, “Did you want to come out and see Loki?”
“I’d love to, but I can’t leave the classroom. Maybe another time.”
She caught up with Ethan, who had pulled his lunch box from his cubby.
“Thank you for showing me your classroom.” She extended her hand, though she wasn’t sure he’d take it.
This time, instead of running off, he placed his small hand in hers, and her heart warmed.
Prescott waited in the grass, surrounded by a harem of moms and a gaggle of kids. She would bet her life savings those moms werenotthere for the dog.
As she made her way toward him, he turned, their eyes met and that familiar hit of adrenaline soared through her. She loved that she was his. Loved that they’d taken their intimacy to the next level. Loved that her heart felt so full when she was with him and Ethan.
“Hey, babe,” he said once she was within earshot.
Every woman whipped her head in Jacqueline’s direction. One glared at her, another snarled. These women were eager to sink their teeth or their talons into him. No doubt, he was a huge catch… but he was hers.
“Okay, kids, we’re gonna take off,” Prescott said. “Have a good evening.” Prescott tucked Loki under his arm like a package.
With each step, her heart beat faster, color flooded her cheeks.
She petted Loki on his head. “How’s my boy?” she asked him.
“I’m good,” Prescott murmured. “Much better since you tookgoodcare of me.”
They shared a smile before loading up their precious cargo. When they got home, Jacqueline suggested they put Ethan in the jogging stroller.
“And go for a run?” Prescott confirmed. “I don’t think so.”
“I won’t let him turn us into prisoners, and I don’t want him to know I’m scared. That gives him all the power.”
“But youarescared.”
