Page 50 of Hope and Country

“Yes,” I agreed, motioning to stand. “Thank you again. And I might take you up on your kickboxing lessons. I’ve always wanted to learn how to land a perfect kick. And who knows, I must have leftover anger or something simmering inside me. From those years of abuse. Could do me good to channel it in a constructive way.”

“You got it, girl. Take time to rest and heal, then I’ll teach you how to kick asses the proper way.”

I hugged Taylor once again, and this time, he rubbed my back gently.

Riley walked him to the door, and before the bodyguard left, I heard them exchanging words.

“You’ve got a great one there, Burns. You were right; she’s a keeper.”

“Let’s just say she made a huge impact on me that night.”

A little smile tugged at my lips.

Taylor continued. “Whatever you two need, I’m here.”

I pictured Riley clapping his shoulder.

“Thanks, man. We’ll talk soon.”

My heart swelled. I had found a keeper too.

20

RILEY

“I’m thinking about adopting a dog,” I told Devon as we ate breakfast, a few days later.

“Really? What will you do when you’re on the road or flying all over the world to join your people on tour?”

I shrugged. “I’ll find a way. And if I get a dog not too big, maybe I can even bring it along when we travel by bus. And I’m sure my mother would love the company from time to time. She often feels lonely in her big house all by herself when she’s in town.” I put my fork down. “What do you think?”

Devon pointed to her chest with her thumb. “Me? Why does it matter?”

I shrugged again, trying to project a casual demeanor. “Because it does. I want you to pick it up with me. I trust your instinct. I’ve never had a dog before.”

“Me neither. You sure?”

“I read somewhere pets are good for helping people deal with trauma. And I’m always alone here. I’m kinda enjoying the company now. See, it’d be beneficial for both of us.” And because I really want you to get better. And I think a dog could maybe help ya. Put a smile on your face. Puppies tend to do that. And I’ll never get tired of witnessing your happiness. It ruins my heart for any other woman. Because I wanna bask in yours. Every day. For as long as you’ll have me.

Devon tapped my hand. “You know I’m just here temporarily, right? Until Robbie gets charged.”

“Yes. Sure. But as long as you’re here, I’m sure that dog would love the cuddles.”

I know I wouldn’t object to them either.

We finished breakfast, got dressed, and just when we were about to cross the threshold of the front door, Devon froze.

Her voice vibrated with emotions. “Riley, I can’t. I can’t go outside.” Her breaths turned quick and shallow, and panic flashed in her gray-blue irises. “No. He’s out there. Robbie is out there. He could see me.”

She shook her head vigorously, her fingernails dragging painfully into the skin of my arm.

I pivoted to face her and placed my hands on her shoulders, trying to inject doses of serenity into her.

“Then don’t. I’ll never force you to do something you’re not ready for.”

Fat tears ran down her porcelain skin.

I read all the sorrow passing in her eyes.