Total pages in book: 74
Estimated words: 68743 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 344(@200wpm)___ 275(@250wpm)___ 229(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 68743 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 344(@200wpm)___ 275(@250wpm)___ 229(@300wpm)
Much of Derek’s anger had already begun to deflate, and at Asher’s explanation, his shoulders dropped and his posture relaxed. Signs he’d begun to, if not accept Asher and Nikki, then resign himself to the idea. “You’ve obviously thought this through.”
“I have. If it helps you to know, I fought myself, my loyalty to you, and my worry about our age difference the whole time. But Nikki, she’s a force of nature. I can’t not love her so please don’t ask me to.” Asher waited a beat for his words to sink in before hitting harder. “If you do force me to choose, I can’t say you’d win. And I already told you I don’t want to put her in the middle of the two most important people in her life.”
Derek let out a wry laugh and Asher felt his tension ease. “Think that much of yourself, huh?”
Asher grinned. “I can’t help it if she finds me irresistible.”
“Gross.”
“Seriously. You’re the only person who gives her the respect she deserves. You’re one of my closest friends, so I came to you man to man. I want to marry your sister and I’d like your blessing—rather than your fist in my face.” Asher extended his hand.
Derek eyed him warily. “I grew up with her. I hope you know what you’re getting yourself into,” he said, extending his arm and shaking like they’d settled a deal. “I can’t say I’m all in or I don’t need time to adjust, so can you watch the PDA around me?”
Asher let out a laugh. “That I can do.”
* * *
Asher had gone to spend the day with Serenity, talking and making amends, as he’d called it. No sooner had he left than Nikki’s cell rang, Zach’s name flashing on the screen. Lucky, who’d been lying on the floor in the kitchen, perked his head up at the sound.
Curious, she answered right away. “Hello?”
“Hey there, pretty girl. I have good news.”
Knowing any news he had involved the photos, Meg, and Lance, Nikki’s stomach did a flip. “What is it?”
“Your exes, friend and boyfriend, were arrested this morning.”
“Oh, wow.” She wasn’t sure whether she felt more relieved or sad. Either way, the end result was for the best. “What happens now?”
“I wish I could say it was over for you but probably not. I’m sure they’ll both hire lawyers, even if it’s a public defender. If they take a deal, you’re off the hook. If they want to go to trial, you might have to testify. The DA will be in touch.”
“I understand.” She’d do whatever she had to. “Can you tell me where they were taken? I need to see them.” She had to know why they’d targeted her. What each of them had against her. Then she could put the whole nasty business behind her.
“Wish I could but not even my skills and contacts can get you around state law. Only an attorney can see a defendant. Once they make bail you can talk to them. Sorry, hon.”
“Zach, who are you with your skills and your contacts?” she asked.
He let out a laugh. “Just your everyday bar owner.”
Yeah, right, she thought, amused. “Thanks again, Zach.”
“Of course. Make sure my brother’s taking good care of you. Talk soon.” He disconnected and she shook her head. Whatever woman ended up with Zach would have her hands full, but she’d also be a lucky lady.
Nikki looked around the kitchen and sighed.
This was it.
Meg and Lance had been arrested, and whatever happened to them, she was safe and could go home. There was no reason to stay with Asher any longer. She shivered, deciding that she wasn’t going back to the place where she’d had her privacy invaded and she no longer felt safe. She would just show up on her brother’s doorstep and stay with Derek while she looked for a new apartment.
Nikki put the last of her clothes in the suitcase she’d placed on Asher’s bed. Her shoes were on the bottom, and all she had left to add were her toiletries from the bathroom and Lucky’s things. The first time she’d picked up a toy and placed it in the suitcase, he started to cry and carry on, so she dropped the bone back on the floor, leaving his things for last.
The dog lay on Asher’s side of the bed, looking up at her with soulful eyes, as if he knew what she was doing and why. Maybe he sensed her mood, her lack of enthusiasm for leaving, and the dread she felt about saying goodbye. But she’d never walk out without thanking him for all he’d done.
From agreeing to take a woman he didn’t know to his personal island retreat to indulging her whims, from playing in the ocean to trips to town, jet skiing and letting her bring a dog home, he’d been amazing.