Page 41 of Covet (The Red #3)

Chapter Forty-One

Daisy

Listen to Bellyache

by Billy Eilish

“ I think we should move in together.”

We’d just finished a movie, cuddled on the couch. I stared at Noah. My entire body exploded in joy at his words but that damn niggling guilt was killing my buzz. I ignored it and jumped into his arms. “Oh, my God, yes! I’m so happy you want to take the next step with me. I love you so much.”

He was smiling but there was a deadness to his eyes that bothered me.

Ever since the club, Noah had been completely re-focused on me and our relationship.

He was attentive. He initiated sex every night.

He brought me flowers and rubbed my feet after a hard shift.

It was as if once he realized Elle would never be his, he’d completely committed to me and our future.

It was everything I wanted. Everything I dreamed of since the moment I laid my gaze on him at the DJ booth and tumbled straight into big feelings.

I loved his quiet, steady gaze and the way he used music to express his soul.

I loved his deep laugh and the way he gently held me with a protective care I’d never experienced.

I saw wedding rings and babies and a beautiful life, though I kept things bottled-up so I didn’t scare him off.

I knew that the more freedom and trust I gave, he’d come back to me.

Until Elle. But I’d taken care of that situation swiftly and now we were back on track.

So, why wasn’t I happy?

“My lease is coming up in March. I know it’s before graduation, but maybe I can move in then instead? Only if that works for you.”

“Sure. We spend most nights together anyway.” He hugged me back and kissed the top of my head. “I love you, too, Daisy. I’m sorry I never said it before.”

Again, my burst of satisfied giddiness was tainted with lingering doubts. Maybe he was finally able to be free with his emotions after I proved Elle wasn’t right for him? “It’s okay, I told you there was no rush.”

“You’ve always been there for me. Through all the shit, showing up day after day with a smile. You’re perfect.”

Uneasiness flowered. “Umm, well, not perfect, but I think we’re perfect together.”

“Agree.”

I focused on the knowledge Noah had finally said the words. After all the work, seeding and watering and feeding this relationship, I’d gotten everything I ever wanted. Noah was all mine.

We talked about our future; my graduation; maybe looking at a bigger apartment. I held his hands and told myself I’d never been happier.

“What’s happening with you and Elle?” I asked innocently. “You said JJ wanted you both to explore new options but didn’t give details.”

“I’ll be looking to work with new artists and build my production credits. Elle will go solo. This relies on the song catching on and making money, but I feel like it’s got everything needed to take off. So does JJ.”

“The song is amazing.” I nibbled my lip. “You enjoyed writing stuff with her, huh?”

“Yep. It was good. We’ll need to do a lot of marketing and some live performances but then I’ll be free to explore. Plus, you can come with me to all of those events. I don’t like the idea of us not being together.”

I tilted my head and studied his profile. “That never worried you before. We’ve always been open and understanding of each other’s schedules.”

His tone sharpened. “I think if we’re moving in together, we put in a little more effort. I don’t want to be without you anymore.”

Warning bells clanged in my head. “Why?”

He shrugged. “Because I love you. Isn’t that what you want? To take our relationship to the next level?”

“Of course! It’s just strange that all of this seems to be coming in a rush. What made you suddenly change your mind?”

He didn’t answer for a few moments. The silence spoke volumes. “Because I suddenly got clarity. Want another drink?” He got up from the couch, turning his back on me, and I wondered why my big win felt suddenly empty.

Dear God, did I want to be a consolation prize?

No. We were better together. Noah and Elle would be a disaster together. Even Gabby could see it.

Yet, Adam and Landon beat the odds. And no one saw that relationship coming.

The thoughts tangled in my head and made me sick. Pissed that Noah’s love declaration was ruined by my stupid doubts, I tried to get myself back on track. Elle was a nonentity. I bet her and Coop had also decided to move in together now that Noah had backed off. We’d all be so much happier now.

At least, that’s what I told myself.