Page 161 of The Bitter Words

I open my mouth more and our tongues caress each other’s as if we’re trying not to break a delicate piece of fine art.

We breathe together as we finally enjoy a meaningful connection. One we’ve both missed for a long time.

He pulls away and stares beams of love into my eyes. “I love you.”

“I know, but you should go.”

“Yeah, right. You’re leaving for Paris soon.”

“In about ten hours and I still have a lot to do.”

“Then this is exactly how I want you to remember me.” He plants a quick kiss on my cheek. “Call me when you land.”

“How about I get settled first?”

“Whatever is best for you.”

I walk him to the door and we say one last goodbye. He leaves and I watch his car fade into the distance while I wonder if he’s sober enough to drive.

“You sure you’re ready to let go of the past two years and take him back?” Bren’s voice causes me to flinch.

I face him. “What am I doing? I’m moving and you guys are still touring. Us rekindling things is ridiculous. He couldn’t stay faithful the first time. What makes me believe he will now?”

Bren pegs me with a hard stare. “What if you knew that wasn’t the case? Do you think you could move on and finally let it go?”

“Bren, he cheated on me. How can you say he wouldn’t again?”

“That’s what I’m trying to tell you.”

“What are you saying?”

He considers something for a moment. “If I could promise you he wouldn’t cheat, do you think you could move on from the past and start clean with him?”

“That’s a tall order.” I gesture to the kitchen. “You can fix me my birthday breakfast now. I’m starving.”

We go on with our day, chatting about his tour and my business. He hints around about how Callum isn’t as dishonest as I think he is. I just shake my head, thinking Bren’s under some kind of bro code trance.

After we have dinner with my parents and I say goodbye, Bren takes me to the airport. I take in Los Angeles as we drive.

He takes a detour. “We’re making one last stop before you go.”

“Make it quick.”

“That part is up to you.”

I peer over at him. “Why?”

“Cash, Hawke, and Cooper are at our old stomping grounds. I’m supposed to meet up with them after I drop you off, but I thought it would be cool if we stopped by andsurprised Cash. Seeing you one last time would give him something to focus on while we finish the tour.”

“I don’t know if this is a good idea, Bren.”

“You already told me if he proves to you he’s serious about cleaning up his act, you’ll give him another chance. Do this and give him some hope.”

My stomach spins and I smile. “Okay. Let’s do this.”

We get to the dive bar where they’re hanging out and go inside to surprise him. I glance around, looking for him.

Laughs too loud surround me. Smeared lipstick across his lips burns my eyes and my heart gets crushed once again.