Chapter 61
Sterling bursts through the door like a tornado. Blood on his cheek, jacket rumpled, and … his shoe untied?
He isn’t alone. Everything gets louder as the cops start to clear us out.
Sterling rushes over, his hands moving rapidly as he checks my face, arms, hands. “You’re okay.” It’s an answer more than a question.
He doesn’t let go, even as the EMT forces him to sit down so they can look over his cheek.
Sterling keeps his gaze on me the entire time.
Gone is the crisp, restrained man I’ve always known. His shoulders are hunched forward, his breathing is labored, his temples are damp with sweat. He never lets anyone see him like this.
He’s letting me see though. He’s keeping me here.
Doesn’t he know I’m not going anywhere? Not now, not ever.
“I got the story,” I say, squeezing his hand.
Today has been an adrenaline rush I’ll be happy to put behind me, but at least it wasn’t for nothing.
The EMT finishes up and moves to another patient.
Sterling stands. “I don’t care about the story.”
He reaches up, cupping my cheeks with his palms; they’re warm and steady, and I’ve watched them write treatises that tear down powerful people, but right now, he’s gently holding me.
“I’ve spent my life putting the story first, but watching them take you … Mia, I’ve been cruel to us both. I’m sorry. I know you’ll be angry—you deserve to be—but if—”
Ridiculous man.
Grabbing the lapels of his jacket, I pull him down into a kiss.
* * *
Make Your Choice:
awww, how cute (epilogue now, please) (go to 89)
no, I want more! (go to 75)
go back (go to 40)