Page 46 of Feel the Rhythm

“It’s not,” he said firmly, taking another step closer. “I have plenty of money. A dance studio is a worthy cause. It’s your second home, and I know that’s part of why you are who you are.” He reached out a hand and gently stroked my cheek. “You’re worth it to me.”

I leaned my head into his hand for just a second. “It’s really sweet of you to do that,” I said. I pulled away. “But I don’t need your handouts. You don’t need to step into everyone’s business and try to fix things.”

“Everyone’s business . . .” he repeated slowly, taking a step back. “What do you mean by that?”

“First, you tried to keep Amy and Lucas apart. Now you’re trying to take over my family. You keep trying to fix everyone’s lives.”

“What if I want to help fix your life?”

“I don’t need to be fixed!” I shouted, stepping away from him. “I’ve got this handled. I don’t need you to step in and take care of everything for us.”

Scott recoiled, as if I hit him. “I worry about you, Ivy. You’re taking on too much for your family.”

“Well, that’s my problem. Not yours.”

He tentatively stepped closer to me again. “I want it to be my problem.” He reached for me, his fingers leaving a trail of fire down my arm as he held my hand, brought it up to his lips, and kissed it. “Please don’t push me away.” I closed my eyes for a moment and enjoyed the feeling. He tugged my face up to his, his hands on my cheeks, and kissed me.

This wasn’t like our other kisses. He was gentle, tender, but at the same time, he showed me how deep his affection went. Maybe he wasn’t great at using his words, but he poured all his feelings into this kiss, trying desperately to impart how important I was to him.

And while I could definitely feel it, it was all too much. I needed to be strong for my family, but I was falling for Scott. I needed to be independent, not someone who relied on others for strength and support.

I broke away from him. “I’m sorry, Scott. I can’t do this.” I backed away, putting much needed space between us.

He blinked a few times, then nodded in resignation. “I won’t give up, Ivy. We’re meant to be together. But if you need space, I’ll give that to you.”

“Thank you,” I whispered. Slowly, I turned away from him and walked to my car in a daze. I opened my car door and swiped at my eyes. When had I started crying? I didn’t even realize it. I drove away and saw Scott watching me through my rearview mirror, knowing I needed to prepare myself for the onslaught of questions that were coming my way once Amy came home.