Page 30 of Broken

“So what’s your story?”

“Haven’t you heard? I don’t know my story.” I shrug. “Still trying to figure out how I got here.”

His hand moves to the back of the bench almost as if he’s getting ready to wrap it around my shoulder. I can feel his fingers touch the back of my neck.

“That’s a shame. At least you found a home here.” His hand starts to rub my neck and I close my eyes because it feels good.

When I open them he is staring at me. The fire in his eyes is making me uneasy. I don’t want him and it isn’t fair to make him think I do. I’m not cut out for the games. I just want Max to stop being such a stubborn ass and be with me.

“You know, I have some food cooking and I completely forgot about it. Hopefully, it isn’t burnt.” I get up quickly and make my way inside.

I push the swinging doors to the kitchen open, deciding maybe a drink will help calm my nerves. I pour myself a shot of the fruity rum Lucy keeps stashed in here. It burns as I swallow it, but my body eases at the same time.

I hear the doors swing open, assuming it will be Lucy.

I turn to see the person who has been taking up my every thought lately.

Max.