Page 33 of Hold Me Tight

I want more.

More than she’s ready for.

More than she might ever be ready for.

And no matter how much I try to reel it in, I know there’s no going back.

15

Callie

I’m still thinking about the way River’s warm fingers were wrapped around mine as we pull up to the curb outside the townhouse. The moment he cuts the engine, I slip from the truck and open the door to get Nora. It’s only then I realize she’s fallen asleep.

River stops by my side, his gaze settling on her.

His expression turns tender. “How is it possible that she’s even more adorable when she’s asleep?”

I snort as a smile tugs at my lips. “No clue. But I do know she’s a total tornado when she’s awake, and she’s starting to outgrow her naps. I was hoping for at least another six months.”

He shifts slightly. “Should we wait until she wakes up, or do I try to lift her out now?”

“Let’s give it a shot. I’m sure you want to get the bed inside and set up. You’ve probably got plans for this evening.”

“Nope. None.” His eyes meet mine. “I’m all yours for as long as you want.”

I falter on a sharp inhale, searching my brain for a response.

But there’s nothing. I’m totally blank.

I force out a cough to steady myself. “You should probably get her.”

He gives me a lopsided smile before unlatching the harness and lifting it over Nora’s shoulders, trying to make room to maneuver. Nora shifts but doesn’t wake. At least, not yet. He carefully slips his hands under her arms and eases her from the seat. As soon as her limp body is free, he pulls her against his chest and holds her close so that her head is tucked beneath his chin.

Seeing my daughter nestled against this man does funny things to my insides. Other than the help my parents provide by babysitting, this is the first time in years I haven’t felt like I had to do something alone.

As we head up the walkway to the townhouse, River says, “Looks like there’s something taped to the door.”

I blink out of my thoughts. “Huh?”

He nods toward it, and that’s when I see the envelope. Bright white with my name and address typed out on the front. It looks official. A vise grips my insides.

Is it from the bank about the late loan payments?

They wouldn’t actually come to my home on a weekend, would they?

My footsteps falter as dread pools within me. I’m scared to find out what’s waiting inside. I already know that whatever it is won’t be good.

With River looking on, I force myself to reach out and carefully rip it from the door. My fingers tremble as I open and scan the contents. I frown and reread it for a second time, trying to make sense of the paragraphs. Without warning, it feels like my world has been upended.

“Is everything okay?” River asks from behind me with Nora still sleeping in his arms.

Notice of Rent Increase: $500.00 effective next month.

The words blur on the paper.

Five hundred dollars.

I’m silently reeling at that number.