Page 129 of Raise Me Up

“Did you tell anyone from Lithos about your symptoms?”

My hand stops moving. “Why does it matter?”

“Noah thought you’d gotten mixed up with drugs. I didn’t tell him your business, but I made it clear that wasn’t the case.”

Words get stuck in my throat for a little while. “Ah. Well, thanks.”

“If you explained what was actually going on, they would probably take you back.”

I release a long breath. “I don’t want to use my health as an excuse for my creative shortfalls.”

“You absolutely fucking can use it as anexplanation."

I turn my head to look at him. Fake starlight illuminates his serious expression. He’s such a dangerous looking man, and yet he couldn’t be more selfless or caring.

“I’m okay, Liam.Really.”

More than okay with the two of them bleeding warmth into me.

“You ready to try coming back to the studio?”

I give a soft smile. “Do you want me to come back?”

“You work for me, Beau.”

“You should fire me. I left without giving notice.”

His dark eyes flash with anger. “I’m in charge. And you’re not going to leave again, understand?”

I want to laugh at his command, but I’m still not convinced I’m living in reality. Did I wake up from anesthesia? If not, I think I’m okay staying right here forever.

“You’re gonna get sick of me,” I say.

“Maybe.”

I make a pouty face at him. “You better be glad she’s holding me back.”

Surprisingly, Liam lets out a deep laugh that makes my heart skip.

“You called me a liar, so it doesn’t matter what I say. You won’t believe me anyway,” he says.

“Nevermind. I believe you.”

“Mmm. Good. Have I told you how perfect you are today?”

“No. Not perfect. I’mhappy,” I murmur sleepily. “Hey, Liam?”

“Yeah, trouble?”

“Thanks for chasing after me this time.”

thirty-eight

Stasi

“Ineed another inch over here.”

Pushed up on socked toes, Beau dangles a shiny blue ornament from his finger and smiles coyly over his shoulder.