Page 59 of Desperate Games

Because maybe—just maybe—that flirty friendship, that slow-burn heat, that thing we had building between us like tension before a kiss—maybe that could’ve grown into something real.

Something big.

Something good.

But now?

Now we’ll never know.

Because of me.

Because I jumped the gun.

I forced the issue.

I let fear and desire and desperation steer the wheel.

I played stupid games.

And in doing so, I broke us before we ever had a chance to begin.

God, I am so damn sorry for that.

I just hope he never finds out how much.

And I hope I don’t either.

Chapter Sixteen-Remy

We say I do.

Andrea’s hand trembles in mine, but she signs the marriage license anyway.

Doesn’t look at me when she does it, just scrawls her name and breathes like she’s trying not to hyperventilate.

The rent-a-preacher Nico Jr. sent me just closes his little book, the lawyer nods, and I don’t wait.

“Thanks. Appreciate you both.” I’m already herding them out the door like the house is on fire. “I’ll wire the rest of your fee tomorrow.”

They’re gone just in time.

Because I hear it—the sound of heels and a measured, furious knock.

Then the door flies open because no, I didn’t lock it.

Andres Ramirez walks in like he’s about to go twelve rounds with the Devil himself.

Ellie is behind him, wide-eyed and frantic, holding her purse like it’s a weapon.

“Where is she?” she cries.

Andrea is sitting on the couch, looking shell-shocked. She hasn’t moved since she signed.

“Andrea,” her mom rushes forward, eyes shiny with tears, and drops to her knees beside her. “Are you okay? Baby, talk to me!”

Before I can even brace, Andres Ramirez is on me. He’s faster than I gave him credit for, and stronger, too.

The punch lands square in my jaw.