Page 230 of Fame & Chaos

“I actually know exactly who she should talk to, too,” Indi adds thoughtfully. “He’s really good with trauma and anxiety.”

Before she can say anything else, I wrap my arms around her waist and pull her tightly against me.

“Caleb!” she whisper-hisses while trying not to laugh. “I’m literally at work.”

“I don’t care.” I hold her tighter. “I’m not gonna get to hold you properly for six months, so I’m taking every chance I can get.” Then I kiss her hard before she can protest again. She resists for about two seconds before melting completely against me while her hands slide into my hair.

God, I’m going to miss this woman so much it physically hurts.

I already miss her, and I only left this morning.

Eventually, I force myself to pull back slowly, and her eyes are already glossy again while she looks up at me.

“I hate this,” I admit quietly.

She smiles sadly. “Me too.” Then she gently takes my hand and starts leading me toward Annie’s room. As she walks ahead of me, my eyes immediately drift downward and—

Jesus Christ.

I physically have to drag my attention away from her ass before my body starts reacting in a very inappropriate hospital-approved manner.

Down boy.

We walk into Annie’s room as Colt storms in, looking furious and terrified all at once.

Fantastic.

This should go well.

Chapter Forty-One

Caleb

“Hey Annie, you’re awake. How are you feeling?” Indi asks, and I can’t help but admire her ass as she bends over to take Annie’s blood pressure.

“I’m okay. Feeling a bit groggy and exhausted.”

“Yeah, that’ll be from the emotional distress from the panic attack. Plus, we gave you a mild sedative to calm your nerves. Hopefully, by tomorrow morning, you should feel a lot better,” she says while continuing her observations.

“So the thing I talked to you about?” I ask.

Indi nods and swallows like she’s slightly nervous. “I have a mental health nurse coming up to have a chat with you, Annie—”

“But I don’t need—”

“You may not need to talk to anyone, but they might be able to help you manage your anxiety levels. It’ll also give you a chance to speak openly, alone if you want to—”

“She can’t be alone. I’ll be here,” Colt cuts in immediately.

To my surprise, Indi chuckles. “Well, I’m sorry, Mr. Slade, but if Annie wants to speak privately with the nurse, then she should be allowed to. Honestly, it may be the only way she feels comfortable enough to open up, and then maybe we can figure out how to help her with these heightened anxiety levels. Wouldn’t you rather she be healthy and happy than silent because she’s worried about saying the wrong thing in front of you, Mr. Slade?”

I almost burst out laughing. The way she keeps calling him Mr. Slade sounds both respectful and defiant at once.

Everyone else is clearly trying not to laugh too hard while Colt grunts.

Indi smiles sweetly and nods. “Good. Glad that’s settled. He should be down shortly, Annie. Until then, do you need anything? Something to eat, maybe?”

“No. Thank you, Pixie,” Annie says softly.