The question throws me, yanks me back into reality. Declan. A name I haven’t thought about in minutes since Hayes started pulling me under, drowning me in everything I can’t remember but desperately want to.
I don’t feel guilty. Not even a little. I know now—deep in my gut—that whatever happened between Hayes and me is the reason I never looked back at Declan after ending our engagement. The reason I didn’t want him anymore. Even if I don’t remember it.
“He tried,” I admit. “But I turned my head.”
“Fuck.” The word is sharp, almost pained as it releases from his lips. “It looked like you guys were making out from the kitchen window.”
My mouth parts in shock. “You were watching us?”
His grip tightens, not painfully, just enough to keep me there, to hold me in this moment with him. “I’m always watching you.”
Then, before I can respond, before I can process the heat in his eyes, he leans in and presses a kiss to the top of my head.
And he’s gone.
Turning away without another word, without another glance, like he’s reached his breaking point. Like one more second in my presence will ruin him completely.
And God, I wish he’d let it.
Chapter 39: Hayes
One day later…?
???
Hayes:Dinner plans?
Regan:No… just finishing up with Cash and the chicks. You’re off work tonight?
Hayes:I head into the hospital at eight.
Regan:Okay…
Hayes:I made spaghetti and garlic bread. Share it with me before I go in?
Regan:Okay, that sounds nice. Thank you.
Hayes:See you soon.
???
Another day later…
Regan:Thank you again for making dinner last night. I hope you were able to get some rest after your shift.
Hayes:I did. Slept like a rock until ten this morning.
Hayes:What do you have planned for today?
Regan:Helping Colt at the distillery. New summer brews are coming in, and he needs help organizing what we’ll sell at the restaurant versus send out to distribution.
Hayes:Need a hand?
Regan:Not sure that’s a good idea. I get the sense he doesn’t like you.
Hayes:Your senses are correct however that’s never bothered me before. I only care if you like me. You’re my wife, and all.
Regan:Hayes…
