Hidden Waters (Tattered & Torn, #3)

by Catherine Cowles

I knew something about taking a trek through hell. And the last thing I wanted was for the woman with the haunting eyes and the gentlest spirit I’d ever seen to have visited that demon-filled desert.

“We need a code word.” “A code word?” I croaked. “A word that you can say, and I’ll freeze and then back off. If I do anything that scares you or makes you nervous, just say…oh, hell, I don’t know. Say ‘purple elephant,’ and I’ll be totally under your control.” The corner of my mouth twitched. “Purple elephant?” He shrugged, a faint blush tingeing his cheeks. “I was trying to think of something you probably wouldn’t say in daily life.”

Appreciate the kindness but never let yourself rely on it because it will likely disappear one day.

Addie handed me a napkin and silverware, then took her seat. She remained laser-focused on her pizza, using her fork and knife to cut the slice into small pieces. “Addie.” Her head jerked up. “Do you always use a knife and fork with your pizza?” “It’s greasy.” I shook my head and folded one of my slices in half. “You’re missing the best part.” I took a huge bite. A glob of sauce fell free, landing on my t-shirt. A laugh bubbled out of Addie. “I’m thinking my knife and fork are looking better and better.”

I’d seen a lot of the world, from big cities to thick jungles. I’d experienced countless cultures and all sorts of different ideals. But no one stole my breath the way Addie did. It wasn’t something that lived in her appearance, as much as I loved looking at her. It was more. It was the strength that radiated from her. The kindness that pulled everyone in. The fight that no one could silence. And beyond all of that, it was how she saw more than everyone else around her. She paid attention to the tiny details and knew that they could be the most important.

“Oh, boy. Two cranky alpha males in a too-small space,” Hadley muttered,