Page 128 of Tangled with the Tight End

I don’t. I have a few hours before I need to stop by to meet the dogs.

He texts back instantly.

But Cass answers the call I had already started to her, so I don’t read Declan’s message.

The neighborhood passes outside my car windows. Massive estates that could comfortably fit four houses the size of mine inside them.

“Win! You’re alive?” Cass’s concerned voice comes through my car speakers.

I pass through the first gate.

“I am. I’m alive,” I say.

I approach the next gate, waiting for it to swing open and let me out.

“I wasn’t worried. Not really.” Cass pauses.

I leave Declan’s neighborhood and begin driving the familiar streets of Waterford—through nondescript neighborhoods with craftsman and ranch-style houses.

“It’s not like you to not check in,” Cass says. “Did you forget to charge your phone?”

My heart feels tight and overworked.

“No. I was with Declan.” My mind flashes on our night together. On this morning. On Snow.

“After I called you, he asked me to stay since the rain was still heavy. Then … I fell asleep. I’m on my way home now.”

I picture Declan, framed in his doorway, and a part of me considers pulling a U-turn. But my hands grip the wheel and I drive on.

Chapter 20

Winona

To love is to risk not being loved in return.

~ Leo Buscaglia

“Something’s off in your voice. What’s going on?” Cass asks.

“I’ll tell you in person. It’s nothing really.”

“Are you sure you’re okay?”

“Yes. Fine. I’m good. Better than good. But also confused. But good. I was doing amazing. Everything was. But now with Snow, I’m just feeling … everything.”

I turn into our neighborhood.

“Are you home?” I ask.

I suddenly realize it’s a weekday. My brain is flying a million miles an hour.

“No, of course you’re not home,” I correct myself. “You’re at work. I lost track of my days.”

“Winona. You’re rambling.” Cass sounds concerned.

Rightfully so.

“I need to sort myself out. That’s all. I’m good. Don’t worry.”