Total pages in book: 157
Estimated words: 150968 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 755(@200wpm)___ 604(@250wpm)___ 503(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 150968 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 755(@200wpm)___ 604(@250wpm)___ 503(@300wpm)
I smile coldly.
This is my moment, a silent statement to my father.
Without sparing anyone else a glance, I spin on my heels and walk away. I can feel their nasty judgments and their stares burning into my back, but it doesn’t bother me anymore.
Six years ago, I experienced the most humiliating night of my life, and it shattered everything in me, leaving my soul wounded and bleeding. No one stood by me, not even my parents. Six years ago, I lost a battle.
Tonight, I’m taking it all back.
Making new memories, turning the pain into victory.
When I make it outside, I inhale deeply, breathing in the crisp air of winter. It’s cold, and my attire is not the best for this weather.
A shiver racks my body as I look around the parking lot, trying to spot Colton. When I see him, my belly pools with warmth. He’s leaning against his black motorbike, ankles crossed. We both move at the same time, meeting halfway.
I feel this gravitational pull toward Colton, an undeniable connection that seems to tug us closer everyday. It’s strange, but I don’t hate this feeling anymore.
I’ve stopped fighting against it too. When he’s finally standing in front of me, that’s when I notice the backpack. Colton opens the zipper and pulls out a black leather jacket.
Without a word, he drapes it over my shoulders and waits for me to put my arms through the sleeves and then he’s buttoning me up. His rich and earthy scent surrounds me. He smells so good; it’s almost addictive.
Colton tugs the collar higher, so my neck is covered. And then he’s kneeling down in front of me, taking a pair of white sneakers and socks from the backpack.
I gape at him. “You came prepared.”
He chuckles deeply. “I was already planning to steal you away tonight. The best part is you going along with my reckless plan.” Colton lifts his head, staring up at me. “Brave girl,” he praises tenderly, his voice slightly huskier than before.
He makes quick work of removing my heels for me, and then drags the woolen socks on my feet before helping me into the sneakers. They fit me perfectly, my exact size.
When he’s done, he rises to his full height. Towering over me.
Colton grins wickedly. “Your carriage awaits, milady.” He gestures toward his motorbike.
“That’s a fancy carriage.” I find myself teasing.
The idea of running away with Colton Bennett feels exhilarating.
But first, I need to make something clear.
“I’m letting you steal me away. In my father’s eyes, you are the villain right now and the news will soon reach your father. They are going to be pissed off,” I tell him cautiously, still a little breathless. “I don’t know what you’re expecting from this scandal or from me…but I want to make something clear. No sex tonight.”
Colton raises an eyebrow, mischief dancing in his eyes, and there’s something so sexy about that half-smirk on his face. “No sex tonight,” he agrees far too easily.
Maybe it’s foolish of me, but…
I trust him.
He climbs onto the beast of a bike before offering me a helmet. Colton helps me buckle the chin strap, his fingers lingering longer on my jaw before he pulls down the visor of my helmet. I straddle the bike behind him, wrapping my arms around his middle.
Thud.
Thud.
Thud.
I wonder if he can feel the loud beat of my heart against his back.
“Ready?” he asks, his gloved fingers brushing over the back of my hand. Almost like he’s trying to reassure me that everything is okay, that I am safe with him.
“Ready,” I breathe.
CHAPTER FORTY-SEVEN
Colton — 21 years old
We rode for an hour.
Until we reach the winter carnival I wanted to bring Riley to.
The feel of Riley’s arms around my middle, clutching me like I’m her lifeline or, somehow, her salvation. She doesn’t need to say it out loud, I know I’ve gained her trust. Two years of patience…
She trusts me to keep her safe, to protect her.
It feels like I’ve won the fucking lottery.
The winter carnival is supposed to be my surprise for her. I’m trying to sneak in a little date, without Riley noticing.
But then, she’s sharp and intelligent. I know she’ll catch on soon.
I wait for her to descend safely from the motorbike before I climb off too. Riley removes her helmet and looks around her in absolute awe. “I’ve never been to a carnival before,” she whispers, her eyes bright with curiosity as she takes in everything.
Really?
Warmth spreads across my chest and fills my lungs. I didn’t know she’s never been to a carnival before, it makes my surprise even more special now.
My stars have finally aligned. It’s all happening the way I want it to. Now I just have my debt left to collect, and once I do that— I’ll have everything I’ve ever wanted.
My eyes rove over her face, staring at her flushed cheeks. There’s still time left to collect what I’m owed, but Riley is not ready yet.