Page 38 of Their Stormy Reunion

“Nope, you need an alarm,” Roan argued.

“I have a dog.”

“Not good enough,” Roan scowled.

I sighed. “Okay, set me up with an alarm system.”

“We’ll set you up with Ace Alarm Systems. They’re the best. We’ll ask for a favor to put you and your folks at the top of their schedule,” Simon smiled. “In the meantime, watch your back.

“Always,” I said, my jaw tightening. Because if my father thought he could worm his way back into my life and destroy it, he had another thing coming.

Chapter Eleven

Michael: Do you still like Frutti Pebbles?

Fallon: It’s spelled Fruity Pebbles, and why do you want to know?

Ever since the conversation with Mom, I’d been having trouble sleeping, so getting a text from Michael was welcome, even if it was after midnight.

Michael: How about reality TV shows. Do you still like those?

Fallon: I only like the ones where the people aren’t too stupid to live.

I didn’t see any bubbles for a long moment.

Michael: So, I guess you’re not watching many these days?

Fallon: Does the Great British Baking Show count? I love that.

Michael: You bake?

Fallon: No, but I love the show. I’ve even gone back and re-watched episodes. Do you still like watching things that explode?

Again, I didn’t see any bubbles for a long moment.

Michael: My time in the Army cured me of that.

Shit. I should have guessed that. I twirled my hair until it pulled at my scalp.

Michael: Are you still there?

Fallon: Yeah. I’m sorry, I wasn’t thinking when I asked that question. It’s just hard to think of you ever having been a soldier. That was never something that was on your radar, back when you and I were together.

Michael: Things change.

Bubbles.

Michael: People change.

Fallon: Isn’t that the truth. Are you comfortable talking about your time in the service?

Michael: With certain people. You would be okay.

It felt like a treasure chest had been opened up just for me.

Fallon: Anytime, Michael. I’m here for you.

And I meant it. I truly meant it. This was the man I’d fallen in love with. The man who had been my best friend. Of course, I would be here for him.