Page 87 of Ace of Spades

“I can, but maybe you don’t need it. We’re off for the rest of the day and tomorrow.”

She glanced up at him. “We are? Why?”

They came to his car, and he faced her. “Because I asked and Rothmire agreed.” He looked down at the pavement, then lifted his eyes to hers. “I thought maybe we could have dinner and have that talk we’ve been putting off, and then you’d come with me to Dunnellon in the morning.”

There was a vulnerability in his eyes that made her want to say yes, but she hesitated. What did he want for them? If it was just back to friends with benefits, she couldn’t do it. And honestly, even if he was willing to use the wordrelationshipwith her, at some point, he would end it, leaving her heartbroken. Or more heartbroken than she already was.

“I think your visit tomorrow is something you need to do on your own. It’s your discovery to make. And I’m going to pass on tonight. The girls will be home tomorrow, and I need to stock up Rosie’s refrigerator and plan a welcome meal for them.”

“We need to talk, Taylor. At least have dinner with me.”

Dammit, her eyes were burning. She willed her tears away. “I don’t think that’s a good idea.” Rothmire walked out of the building. “Listen, I need to stop by the office for a few minutes. I’ll catch a ride with the boss. Rand or someone can run me home.”

She walked away before she could change her mind, but she hated how Nate’s expression had blanked. Should she have listened to what he had to say? No, she already knew. He’d offer an exclusive relationship simply because that was what she’d asked for, but then he’d explain again why he’d never marry.

What he would offer her no longer worked for her. She wanted it all. His love and his ring on her finger.