Bully (Fall Away, #1)

by Penelope Douglas

His words floated through my mind. I don’t want to take one more step in this world without you next to me. Neither did I. I was hoping we could move forward without looking back.

Madoc cleared his throat. “Dr. Porter. Nate and Piper bumped into each other.” Oh, my God. I was convinced. Madoc was an idiot.

He laid his cheek on the top of my head. “Tate, you’re mine, and I’m yours. Every day you’re going to realize that more and more. When you believe it without a doubt, then I’ll have earned your trust.” “I am yours. I just . . . wasn’t sure if you were really mine.” “Then I’ll make you sure.” He kissed my hair, and his body started shaking with laughter. “You’re laughing right now?” I looked up at him, confused. “Well, I was kind of worried about my anger issues, but now I’m kind of worried about yours. You like to hit people.” His perfect mouth grinned with pride.

I had a list of modifications to perform on my new car, and I hoped Jared, my dad and I could work on it together throughout the winter. Madoc seemed to think he’d be included, too, and I didn’t do anything to dispel his little brain fart.

As I guided my legs up and around him, he kissed me harder before whispering against my lips. “I love you, Tate. And I’m here for you always. With or without the sleepovers. I just needed to see you.”

“Jared.” My father knocked on the door, and we both jerked our heads up. “You need to go home now. We’ll see you for dinner tomorrow night.” My heart thumped so hard it hurt. Crap! Jared snorted back a laugh and spoke to the door. “Yes, sir.”