Page 145 of Lucas

But I can’t. I can’t unknow this, can’t unsee the cracks in the facade.

“I need time. I need to think,” I say, my voice hollow and distant to my own ears. “I won’t say anything, not yet. I can’t promise I’ll let this go, though. If it puts the people I careabout at risk, I’ll do whatever I have to do to keep them safe. Even if it means going against you.”

He nods, a flash of pain crossing his face before he masks it. “I understand. Take the time you need. But Lucas, be careful. Don’t go poking at sleeping bears. It will only end in tragedy.”

A shiver runs down my spine at his ominous words, but I force myself to meet his gaze.

With that, I turn and walk out, my footsteps heavy and leaden. I feel his eyes on my back, boring into me, but I don’t turn around.

I climb into my car and grip the steering wheel, my knuckles white and straining.

What now? Where do I go from here?

I have no fucking clue.

All I know is my world has tilted on its axis, plunging me into a reality I never could have imagined.

I decide to dedicate the next several weeks to reminding Ava that I’m still here, that my love for her hasn’t wavered, and that I’m never giving up on us.

“Good morning,” I greet her as she exits the house, a smirk playing on my lips. “Need a ride to conquer the world?”

She doesn’t respond, her green eyes guarded and filled with a pain that cuts me to the core. I know I’m the reason for that pain, and it kills me inside.

“Silent treatment, huh? That’s okay, I can talk enough for the both of us.”

The next morning, I’m back at her door, a cup of coffee in hand.

“Good morning, Wifey.” I hold out a cup as she approaches, her hair gleaming in the early light. “Vanilla latte, extra foam. Just the way you like it.”

She eyes me but takes the offered cup. “Thanks.”

Her voice is guarded, but I don’t miss the way her fingers linger on mine a beat too long.

“Anytime.” I wink, relishing the flash of exasperation in her green eyes. “Sure you don’t want a ride? I promise I’ll let you pick the music.”

She snorts, shaking her head. “I think I can manage.” She turns toward her Jeep, but I catch the hint of a smile playing about her lips.

It’s not much, but it’s a start.

I wait until she’s out of sight and pump my fist in victory. “Yes!”

Emboldened by my success, I up my game the following day.

“Good morning, sunshine.” I smile, holding out a paper bag. “I brought you breakfast. A sesame bagel with honey walnut schmear. And before you ask, yes, I requested no olives in my most charming voice. The barista was putty in my hands.”

She eyes me, then the bag, her brow furrows. “Don’t you get tired of sitting here every morning?”

“Tired of seeing your beautiful face? Never. Besides, I consider it my daily cardio. Chasing after you is quite the workout.”

She rolls her eyes, but I catch the twitch of her lips. “You’re ridiculous.”

“Ridiculously handsome? I know. It’s a curse.” I sigh.

She snorts, shaking her head. “I’m going to work.”

“Have a fabulous day, Wifey. Don’t work too hard!” I wave as she drives off, a silly grin on my face.

The next morning, she emerges to find me waiting as usual.