Page 65 of Wrapped in Red

“You can say no, but I’d like to help. Both of you.”

Noel worried his lip between his teeth. “Why?”

“Why what?” I put my hands on my hips.

“Why do you want to help me?”

“Because I was that kid, Noel. The kid who was made fun of, but I had CC to help me. To stand up for me. I obviously can’t go to school with Leo, but I can teach him how to be tougher. To grow a thicker skin. How to be himself.”

Noel sighed. “He only goes to school in the off season. Most of the time, he’s with me when we’re racing and does online courses. I don’t even know how they could make fun of him.”

“You’d be surprised,” I murmured. I didn’t want to bring up social media or texting, but I’m sure Noel was aware of that. Again, I wondered about their parents, but that wasn’t any of my business.

“Please, Noel?” Leo whispered as he appeared behind his brother. “I know you don’t want me to be different. Mom and Dad didn’t even want me, but—”

Noel cut him off. “That’s not true. I want you to be yourself. Mom and Dad just... They fucked up. They loved you as much as I do.”

“Please, can Ezra take me shopping? Just once, that’s it. I won’t bother him or you again after that.”

I felt CC’s warmth against my back as he came to stand behind me. “You could come with us. If you’re worried about him hanging out with a stranger.”

“I’m not... that’s not it.” Noel looked conflicted. “Okay, yeah, sure.”

Leo let out a yell of happiness before he went to hug his brother, who returned it rather stiffly. “Thank you! You’re the best brother ever.” Then he turned to look at me before he engulfed me in a bone-crushing hug that had my ribs reminding me that I wasn’t completely healed.

“Can I get your number?”

I liked this kid, and maybe I kind of liked Noel, too. “Of course.”

Once we had exchanged numbers and said goodbye, I found CC watching me with a wide smile on his face. “You’re fucking amazing.”

“Go on.” I waved a hand and giggled when he pulled me against him. “He needs a little help, baby. What else was I supposed to do?”

CC tipped my head up. “A lesser person might not have been so kind. He’s my ex’s kid brother. Ez, you’re so perfect. I don’t deserve you.”

“Lies. You totally deserve me.” I eased up onto my toes. “Tomorrow, we’re decorating this place for Christmas.”

CC brushed his lips over mine. “What about tonight?”

“Tonight? Oh, tonight, you’re going to have your way with me on every single surface in this house.”