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“Does she really?” I asked, not used to the fact that we were having a conversation about the one and only woman who had gotten under Sam’s skin.

“I gave her my number and told her to text me whenever she wants to fuck. I’ve also punched a few fuckers out who hit on her.” He shrugged. “Can’t really get clearer than that.” He lit up another smoke. “I’m sorry, brother. I’m sorry for being an ass. I’m sorry for the way I’ve treated your girl. I can see that you love her. But I...I just...” He swallowed hard, looking away.

Going up to him, I pulled him into my arms. “I’m not going anywhere. This isn’t changing shit.”

“But it is.” His voice wavered. “It’s always been you and me. When Mom died, and then Dad...”

“You can’t expect me to remain single for the rest of my life, Sammy.”

“Fuck.” He shoved away. “No, I don’t expect that.”

“Then what the hell is going on?”

“I can’t lose you too,” he yelled.

“You won’t lose me. Ever.” I went up to him and pulled him back into a hug. “My promise stands.”

“It can’t when you’ve fallen in love. You’re going to get married, have kids of your own and shit. I—.”

“Stop. I told you that no matter what happens, you and I will always be best friends and that we come first before any woman. Ainsley pushed me to talk to you, but I said that everything was fine. Obviously, it wasn’t and that’s on me. Not her.” I leaned my forehead against his. “Okay?”

He nodded. “I guess I should apologize to her.”

“You can but later. We’re going to The Ring.”

***



















(Ainsley)

Jaron and Piper droppedme off at home. They were walking me to the front door of the building when the hairs on the back of my neck tingled. I faltered in my tracks, looking around me.

“Ainsley?” Piper frowned. “You okay?”

I opened my mouth, but no sound came out. My words were failing me as my eyes scanned the area. Nothing was out of the ordinary. I lived in a safer part of town, but that didn’t mean anything. Not when I knew there was still a possibility that people from my past could find me.

“Did you want me to call Cyrus?” Jaron asked, pulling me from my thoughts.