Page 10 of Sweet Hate (If You Dare #1)

HAVEN

I snuggle closer to Axel as we lie on my bed watching Airheads because Brendan Fraser makes everything better. It’s hard to believe this is our last night together before I leave for London. I didn’t think I’d find it this hard.

I hate living here. I’ve always wanted to leave, but it means leaving Axel.

He laughs at Adam Sandler’s antics, his chest vibrating under my head until he notices I’m not laughing with him and looks down at me, his eyes warm with concern.

“Hey, you OK, Sprinks?”

“Yeah, just thinking.”

“Don’t think so hard, baby. It’s going to be OK. You’re going to have the most amazing time living out your dreams.”

“But you won’t be there. What if I can’t do it without you?”

“You are incredible. You can do anything you want to do.” His eyes scan my face before he strokes a hand through my hair. “I’m so proud of you.”

“I’m going to miss you so much, Axel. We need to talk every day. Promise me you’ll visit.” Tears flood my eyes, emotions I’ve been trying so hard to hold back getting the better of me. “Promise me you won’t forget me.”

He positions me so I’m lying on top of him. Pain seeps into his gaze as he swipes my tears away with his thumbs, the warmth of his hands on my cheeks comforting me.

I won’t have this anymore, and that thought alone sets off a fresh wave of tears.

“Hey, hey, baby, please don’t cry. You know it wrecks me when you do. I won’t ever forget you, Sprinks. You’re embedded in here.” He bangs his fist against his chest. “I couldn’t forget you any more than I could forget my own name—I mean, until I’m old and senile, then I make no promises.”

Smirking, he drags me further up his body, so we’re practically nose to nose and crosses his eyes to make me giggle at his ridiculousness.

“Come here, Sprinks. Try to relax. I promise you will rock the baking world and probably end up making cakes for the queen or something. Just don’t marry one of the princes, please. I’m not sure I could compete with that.”

“There’s no competition. You know no one would ever compare to you, Axel. You’re my best friend in the world.” Scanning his face, I try to memorize every little detail, from my favorite streak of white in his hair, to the navy flecks in his bright blue eyes. “I love you so much.”

Something flits across his gaze at that, but it’s gone in a second, and then his smirk is back in place. He kisses my nose and settles me back down on his chest to snuggle.

“Come on, Sprinks, it’s almost your favorite part.”

Departure Day

Me

Just got through security. I had to have a pat down. Apparently my piercings set off the scanner LOL Miss you already. What are you up to?

Waiting to board at the gate. Wish you were here. This would be so much more fun if we were together. I’d dare you to try and sneak into first class and sit in one of those fancy pods when we got on the plane.

Maybe I’d dare you to join the mile high club with me. That would be fun. Right?

Boarded!! I’m guessing you fell asleep. Really wish I got to speak to you before the plane takes off. If I disappear in the Bermuda Triangle, remember you’re the best. Love you. Text you when I land. XoXo

Landed! This airport is SOOO busy. It feels super weird being here. Just waiting on my bags. Dad’s already outside. Whatcha doing?

Got to Dad’s house. It’s HUGE. The backyard overlooks a river!! He has a boat Axel! Legit, behind his actual house!!! WTF?

Axel? Starting to feel like I’m talking to myself. Are you OK?

Twenty-Four Hours Later…

I’m really starting to worry. Please let me know you’re OK.

One Week Later…

Axeman?