First message
The Ohio heat’s nothing compared to the fire in my veins when I glance over at her. Autumn’s bent over an engine, bandana slipping, grease smudged along her jaw, looking more perfect than any woman has a right to. I’ve carried this quiet thing for her for what feels like forever, too scared she’s not ready—too scared I’ll mess up the one good thing around here.
I know she feels it too. I catch it in those hazel eyes when she thinks I’m not looking: that flicker of something soft, hopeful, then quickly hidden away like she’s been burned too many times before. She thinks she has to carry everything alone, but she doesn’t. Not anymore.
When those rivals rolled up, every muscle in my body coiled to snap. I didn’t even think—I just moved. I’ve held back long enough. Today I’m done watching from the sidelines. Whatever it takes, I’m stepping up. She and Emma are mine to protect, and soon enough, I’m going to make sure she knows it.