Series Starter Firsts in Series Collection - Kaylee Ryan Page 0,296

back to me?

Stacy grabs Logan’s suitcase. “I’m going to put this in the car,” she says, walking out of the kitchen.

I stand and pull Logan into my arms. I bury my face in her neck and hold her as tight as I can. I can’t speak for the lump in my throat. She wraps her arms around my waist and holds me just as tight. Knowing she needs to go, needs to be with her family, I lift my head to look at her. Those big brown eyes are filled with pain and sadness, and it guts me.

I cup her face in my hands. I need to make sure she’s looking at me when I say this. “I love you. I know you’re grieving and I’m a selfish prick for telling you at a time like this, but I have to. I need you to know before you walk out that door that when I told you that you own me, I meant it. I love you, Logan. I love you so much my heart literally aches for you. I love you and I’m scared as hell that when you walk out that door, you’re never coming back.”

She doesn’t say anything as tears run unchecked down her cheeks. I pull her against my chest and stroke her hair from her face. I can feel her hot tears soaking my shirt.

“I’m so sorry,” I choke out the words. Seeing her like this is tearing me up. “Let me come with you.” My voice is pleading.

“I’ll be fine,” she mumbles over her tears.

“I’m a phone call away, do you hear me? You text me, call me anytime, day or night. You need me and I’m there. I’ll always be there.”

Pulling away, she reaches behind me on the counter and grabs a napkin. She uses it to wipe the tears from her cheeks. “I need to go.”

I nod, lace my fingers through hers, and lead her outside. The guys and Stacy are standing on the steps talking. The guys all give her another hug, all while I’m holding her hand. I’m not letting go until I have to. They wave goodbye to Stacy and head back into the house. Stacy climbs into the driver’s seat as I walk Logan to the passenger side. Opening the door for her, she climbs in. I kneel down so we are eye level.

Looking over at Stacy, I say, “Take care of my girl. Make sure she gets off safely.” She nods her agreement.

“And you,” I say, cupping her cheek, I lean in close, “I meant every word, Logan. Please let me know when you arrive safely.” I softly kiss her lips. Pulling away, I whisper the words, “I love you.” I hear a slight gasp from Stacy, telling me she heard me. I don’t care. I’ll tell the whole damn word. “Be safe, baby.”

She nods. “Bye.” Her voice is soft.

I force myself to stand and shut her door. I tap twice on the roof of the car and watch as they pull out of the drive. My heart is in that car. I tell myself I have to have faith that she’ll come back. I stand there staring after them long after they’re gone.

Finally making my way into the house, the guys are scarce. I’m sure they saw me standing there like a lovesick fool, watching her drive away, and decided to give me some space. I retreat to my room and lie down on the bed. Her smell instantly surrounds me. I didn’t sleep last night. I couldn’t. I told her it was because I wanted to be awake if she needed me. That was part of it. The other part was this nagging fear that I’ve lost her.

Pulling my phone out of my pocket, I turn the vibration and the ringer as loud as it will go. I’m exhausted as I don’t want to miss her if she calls. Grasping it in my hands resting on my chest, I drift off to sleep.

When I wake up, it’s dark outside. I reach for my phone and see she texted me four hours ago.

Logan: I made it.

That’s all is says. Fuck! I can’t believe I slept through it. I quickly type my reply.

Me: Good. I’m sorry. I fell asleep, just woke up. How are you holding up?

Logan: Sorry I kept you up. I’m doing okay.

Me: I wouldn’t have changed it. You belong in my arms.

I wait for a reply and get nothing. After twenty minutes, I send