Play with the Phantom (Midnight, #2)

by Amanda Richardson

“Asher works too much, doesn’t he?” I huff a laugh. “I’m used to it.” Hannah studies me for a moment, something warm and knowing in her gaze. Then, she sighs, picking up her coffee mug again. “You know, sweetheart… you deserve someone who makes time for you. Who puts you first.” I blink, surprised by the sudden shift in conversation. “We love Asher,” she continues, her voice careful, measured. “He’s always been driven. Focused. But… well, relationships need more than just good intentions.” She takes a sip, her eyes soft as they meet mine. “We like you, Ari. And we would understand if—” She pauses, choosing her words carefully. “If it ever felt like too much. If you ever needed more than what he’s willing to give.” A sharp pang twists in my chest. I force a small smile, ducking my head. “It’s not like that. I know Asher cares about me in his own way.” Even as the words leave my mouth, I feel the lie settle heavily between us. Because it is like that. Maybe it always has been. I’ve just never had anyone else to show me the difference. Not until Maddox. I feel like I’m standing at a cliff’s edge, too scared to jump, too ashamed to admit I already have. But what am I supposed to say to Hannah? That the problem isn’t just Asher’s distance or his busy schedule, but that I’ve already let someone else touch parts of me Asher never has? That I wanted her other son? That I want Maddox, not Asher? “I have no doubt that he cares about you,” she agrees easily. “But words and effort are...