Chapter 19
Lina figued after everything that happened that day, she wouldn’t have to deal with Bruno for a long, long time
standing a little ways down from her front door |
She took a deep leath, fighting back the initation bubbling up inside her. Head down, she thumbed out a quick message on her phonie,
but not too close the kept a careful distance. “What are you doing here?” she asked, her voice cool
willing to beg for another chance
annoyance. He looked so desperate, almost pitiful, like someone hopelessly in love and
vice was rough around the edgen, eyes bloodshot and tired. He looked exhausted, but there was a spark in his gaze, like he sight maybe just maybe she’d be happy to see him
“Mr. Mouis, please call me Ms. Knotts,” she said, bet face expressionless. “We’re not close enough for nicknames
Her words were an cold as ice water, and Bruno actually seemed to flinch
He opened his mouth, hesitated, then managed a shaky smile. “Lina, even if you pretend otherwise, you can’t erase what we had. I know you’re still mad at me, but I want to show you to sorry. I really am.”
I’m going to make everyone who hurt you pay. All of them. And on for Kylie–whatever you want to happen to her, I’ll make it happen. kust say the word‘
He ted to step closer, but Lina subtly shifted back, putting space between them. “If you have something to say, just say it. I’m not playing any of your games. If you really want to make up for the past, then-“)
She was about to tell him to stay out of her life for good, but Bruno cut in, almost frantic.
“I’m not
Lina, Hlove y
you. I really can’t live without you. Give me more time, okay? However they hurt you, I’ll help you get back at them. Isar’t that what you want?“)
“kist wait for me. Give me a little e time. I won’t let any of them off the hook.”
He blurted all of this out in a rush, like he couldn’t stand to hear her say anything else, and before she could even answer, he turned and left–just like that.
Lina watched him walk away, silent. She didn’t call after him. She just stood there, and for a split second, she felt something unexpected cunosity Maybe even hope
Not letting any of them go? She wondered what Bruno would actually do.
A new voice called out, louder, anxious. Rylon hurried over, his hands landing gently on her shoulders as he checked her over, worry written all over his face &
He didn’t relax until he was sure s
she was ok
“He’s gone?” he asked quietly
okay
o come in for some tea?“:
They both knew who “he” was Lina nodded, then opened her door and glanced back at him. “Want to “I’d like that
The kettle was already starting to boil as Rylan slipped off his shoes and followed her inside.
Sunlight poured in through the big windows, filling the small living room with warmth. The place wasn’t huge, but it felt cozy–like home.
Rylan looked around, then let us eyes settle on her. “Getting used to living here?
Lina smiled at him, soft and genuine. “I really like it. Thank you, Rylan.”
He didn’t answer right away, just e
when things get tough”
eyes on her. Aft
a moment, he said quietly. “It means a lot to me that I’m the one you turn to
Compared to their carer small talk, this felt a lot more personal
Lina understood what he meant, and she was grateful for him. But right now, her feelings for Rylan weren’t romantic–not yet, anyway For now, all che could offer him was her thanks
