Page 99 of Between Secrets and Obsession

LIAM

The shiftin Maddie’s and my relationship happened so fast, I’m still trying to grasp it. From confessing my marriage to Victoria was arranged to finding Maddie in my room with the picture that changed everything, I refused to let her slip through my fingers again. As much as I should keep her at arm’s length, I can’t stay away anymore. Protecting her from the O’Learys is my top priority, so we’ll have to keep up the façade of just being friends and roommates.

Although Maddie is five years younger than me, she holds more compassion and maturity than people much older. Her kindness toward people knows no bounds, and it’s something I’ve always loved about her. It’s why even when she probably wanted to punch Victoria in the face, she held herself together and congratulated us. It’s why I wasn’t worried about Maddie making a big scene when I showed up with another woman. She’d wait until we were behind closed doors or use the passive-aggressive approach and pretend it didn’t bother her.

Maddie stepped aside for five days, proving she knows when and how to react. I hadn’t factored in Sophie chewing me a new one before Maddie did, but I should have. Everything she saidwas warranted, and I still feel awful that I can’t tell my closest friends the truth.

My intention was to keep Maddie out of my web of lies and keep her as safe as possible, but the moment I saw her face and how terrified she looked holding that photo, I knew I couldn’t keep the truth from her any longer. When I followed Maddie into her room the night before, I was ticked off she went on a date with Officer Douchebag, but the last thing I anticipated was Maddie saying she wanted us to beselfish.

Selfish because she wanted it as much as I did.

My control snapped, three years in the making, but I can’t keep denying what’s been right in front of me this whole time. I’m scared shitless, worried I’m putting her in more danger than before, but I want to do right by her.

As soon as I head to work Monday morning, I notice the black Suburban behind me. I’m agitated as hell Victoria hasn’t gotten her dad off my ass, but as long as I keep up the act, they’ll have nothing bad to report to Johnny. Though I’m curious as to what he’s expecting to find. I suspect it’s because he thinks I’m not “good enough” for his precious princess. Whatever the reason, it’s annoying as fuck to have them watching.

I text Maddie as I wait for my coffee order at the cafe.

Liam

Good morning, my beautiful pain in the ass. I’m gonna be working till seven or so, if these dickheads don’t give me a hard time. I hope you have a great day talking shit about me to your sister, but if you decide you want company later, leave your bedroom door unlocked.

Maddie

Morning, my annoying roommate. Every day talking smack about you is great. It’s the only reason I wake up. Also, I just might deadbolt my door since you didn’t say please.

I smirk as I read her message, hearing her sarcastic tone in my head. Maddie’s never been afraid to give it as good as she gets, which is hot as hell.

Liam

What if I get on my knees and beg?

Maddie

Don’t put those dirty images in my mind.

Liam

Like they weren’t already?

Maddie

Never mind, I don’t talk to arrogant assholes.

Liam

So, you miss me yet?

Maddie

No.

Liam

Liar. I bet you’re fantasizing about me right now.

Maddie

Who is this again?