Page 174 of Halo

“But we can learn together.”

“You already know how to do this.”

“I know what they are—yes. But I haven’t actually cared for an ostomy since med school.”

“Nick …” Her expression sobers. “I just don't want you dealing with this.”

“Why?”

She blushes, lowering her voice. “I'm not ready for you to see me like this.”

I sigh, taking her hand in mine. “Okay.” Standing up, I lean in and kiss her forehead before heading for the door. “Take notes.”

She chuckles. “I will.”

I step into the hallway, closing the door behind me. Heading toward a coffee cart just outside the unit, I nearly run straight into Declan.

He’s coming toward me with a bouquet of roses in his hand, and by how proud he's marching in, he hasn't clocked me yet.

Surprise, motherfucker.

I plant myself between him and Leah’s room. “I know the fuck you aren’t.”

Declan freezes. “Crawford, I—”

“Oh—” I sardonically laugh, crossing my arms. “This should be good. Go on.” I nod to the flowers. “Tell me those are for someone else, because I know you didn’t stroll into this hospital carrying roses for a woman who has a protective order against you.”

The color drains from his face. “Sh-she told about that?”

“Every word, you self-righteous prick.”

“Now listen, Crawford, it was a misunderstanding. You know how it is in the heat of the moment. You and I are alike—”

I step toward him, forcing him back against a wall. I lower my voice to a growl. “No, you pious piece of shit. You and I are nothing alike. You get off on power and hurting women. Me?” I chuff. “I get off making damn sure they get off first—and only after they consent.” I pat his cheek. “Don’t confuse the two ever again.”

I step back, glaring at him.

He slowly starts to slink away, but he stops and turns back. “I really did love her.”

“That's what makes you so pathetic.”

His shoulders slump. “Can you at least tell me she's okay?”

“No.” I narrow my eyes.

Declan works his jaw, searching for something else to say. Luckily, nothing ever comes. He turns and hightails it toward the elevator, disappearing behind the metal doors.

And hopefully, out of our lives for good.

Chapter 44

Leah

The shoulders of my hospital gown are drenched from my freshly showered hair. Staring into the sink mirror, I comb through my damp waves before dividing them into sections, the tresses sliding like wet silk between my fingers.

I'm not ready to say goodbye to this.

“There she is.” Nick steps inside, hanging up his phone. “I was starting to think you moved into the shower.”