But the only thing I’m guilty of is loving this woman and wanting for myself what Holden and Kaden already have. And I don’t mean the ranch.
“I’m exhausted.” Dropping my head into my hands, I sigh. “What are the chances I can talk you into staying tonight?”
She feathers her fingers in the hair at the back of my neck, and I shiver. “I’m here for the long haul, babe. There’s no getting rid of me now.”
* * *
TESSA
You’re married? To Dean?
I wake the next morning to a half dozen texts from Alana.
When the heck did that happen? OMG it was Vegas, wasn’t it?
Smart lady.
Holden’s on his way back now. Booked a redeye from St. Louis. Not going to lie—he’s eerily calm. I hope that doesn’t mean he’s saving up his rage.
Me, too.
Morning. I tried to get someone to cover for me at the store so I could be here for moral support, but there’s no one. Please know I love you, and I’m on your side. Dean’s, too.
And now I’m going to cry.
Holden just texted. He’ll be home by nine.
Nine?Jesus.
“Babe. Hey, we gotta get up.” I flip over and come face to face with alert brown eyes.
“I’ve been up,” he drawls.
“Tell me you slept.”
He blinks instead.
“Ugh.” I hate this for him. “Alana texted and said Holden’s almost here.”
He nods, albeit barely. “He texted me himself. Said he’s gonna talk to Kaden first, then he’ll come by.”
“Here?”
“Wouldn’t be surprised if he tells me to pack my shit and leave.”
I wouldn’t be surprised either, but Holden has always been the most level-headed sibling so it’s possible he’s trying to mediate.
“We’ll figure it out.” I cup his cheek and stroke my thumb across his stubble. “But there’s something I want to do in the meantime.”
“Sex?” His brows lift. “Right now?”
I give a semi-pained laugh. “I will nevernotwant you, but no.”
“Okay. Then what?”
Slipping out of bed, I pick up the envelope with our annulment papers and tug them out. “I want to get rid of these.”
Dean pushes up onto an elbow and studies me carefully. “You sure?”
