“Look, I’m sorry. I’m afraid I’m being rude. I don’t mean to be. I’m just…”
He doesn’t finish. He can’t. Not because he’s going to cry or anything, he’s just not good at this sort of thing anymore. Conversation.
I understand and smile to let him off the hook. He seems relieved, and I watch as his grip relaxes on the fork for the first time.
“We don’t have to talk. I’m kind of tired anyway. Late night,” I explain.
He nods and rubs his eyes as if commiserating. I can tell he knows late nights, too.
“Thanks. It’s not personal.”
“Oh? I didn’t think it was until now.”
He smiles, but his eyes aren’t in it this time. I’ve definitely lost him and know he’s counting the seconds until he can finish his toast and escape. He’s regretting this, staying, participating in life again. I feel like I’ve been whacked in the stomach but I don’t blame him. He doesn’t owe me anything. This is my fault, not his. I have mercy on him.
I look at my phone and force a curse. “I’m so sorry. I didn’t realize what time it was. I actually have to be at work in ten minutes,” I lie. “Don’t hate me, but I have to run.”
Our eyes do meet this time, and for the briefest moment, I think he knows what I’m doing. I don’t know how or why I think that, but he almost seems grateful for my sacrifice.
“Sure, no problem.”
“Here.” I slap some bills on the table and force the most genuine smile I can. “Breakfast is on me.”
He shakes his head, but it’s instinctive. “That’s not necessary. It’s the least I can do for making you move…twice,” he adds.
“Really. I wouldn’t feel right forcing you to pay for food I didn’t even eat. But it was nice to meet you...Luke.” The dramatic pause before his name sounds awkward, but it doesn’t seem right to leave him, maybe forever, without making our goodbye personal.
He appears to notice my embellished farewell. He almost seems disturbed by the sound of his name, like he’s not used to hearing it anymore.
“Thanks. You too. Callie.”
I grin at his pronunciation. It’s not quite right with an “a” that sounds more like an “o,” but I like it better the way he says it. Now, I don’t want to leave. I’m not sure I can, but I have to. I don’t belong here, in his world.
I get the sense no one does.
Read the NSB Rocker Series Now (Free on Kindle Unlimited and available in audio).
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Alyson Santos
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
From the start of my journey, I’ve been blown away by the support from new friends, readers, bloggers, and fellow authors. I can’t possibly see this as my accomplishment, but as an incredible blessing thanks, in large part, to all of you. There are so many people in my heart, and I wish I could list every one of you, even though I know it’s impossible. Please know that I treasure you all and take nothing for granted.
To my amazing husband who is always there to support me. Without you I would not be writing these words.
To Jean-Philippe and Geneviève: Literally couldn’t have done this one without you. Thank you for your friendship and support over the years.
To Hazel, Lindsey, and Ginger: Your friendship, feedback, and support means everything. <3
To Colleen: You know why.
To Brenna, Donna, and Teri: Thank you for your friendship, feedback, and support.
To Jon, Amanda, Scott, and Nyke: Thank you for sharing your music brains.
To Kelsey: Thanks for being my studio “bestie.”
To Christine: Thank you for your friendship, support, and marketing guidance.
To Maria (Steamy Designs): Thank you for designing the perfect cover for Genevieve and Oliver’s story.
To Marcus: Thank you for your help with ACL rehab research.
To the epic members of ABC (Aly’s Breakfast Club): I can never thank you enough for your encouragement and support. You always bring a smile to my face and remind me why I do this. I love you hard!
To all my readers, I wish I could thank every one of you. Thank you for taking this journey with me and I would love to hear from you!
Table of Contents
CHAPTER 1
CHAPTER 2
CHAPTER 3
CHAPTER 4
CHAPTER 5
CHAPTER 6
CHAPTER 7
CHAPTER 8
CHAPTER 9
CHAPTER 10
CHAPTER 11
CHAPTER 12
CHAPTER 13
CHAPTER 14
CHAPTER 15
CHAPTER 16
CHAPTER 17
CHAPTER 18
CHAPTER 19
CHAPTER 20
EPILOGUE
MORE FROM ALYSON
Excerpt from NIGHT SHIFTS BLACK
Day One.
Day Two.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
