
#  ABOUT US

A Second Chance Romance 

#  Copyright © 2020 by Elizabeth Seckman

ABOUT US: A Second Chance Romance

All rights reserved. Except as permitted under the U.S. Copyright Act of 1976, no part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, or stored in a database or retrieval system, without prior permission of the author.

elizabethseckman.com

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, brands, places, and events are either a product of the author's imagination or used fictitiously. Any similarity to real persons, living or dead, is coincidental and not intended by the author.

Cover Photo (Butterfly) by New Africa

Cover Photo (Background) by Sezamnet

Cover Design by Carrie Butler

#  Table Of Contents

## About Us: A Second Chance Romance

### by Elizabeth Seckman

Title   
Copyright   
Dear Reader   
Chapter 1   
Chapter 2   
Chapter 3   
Chapter 4   
Chapter 5   
Chapter 6   
Chapter 7   
Chapter 8   
Chapter 9   
Chapter 10   
Chapter 11   
Chapter 12   
Chapter 13   
Chapter 14   
Chapter 15   
Chapter 16   
Chapter 17   
Chapter 18   
Chapter 19   
Chapter 20   
Chapter 21   
Chapter 22   
Chapter 23   
Chapter 24   
Chapter 25   
Chapter 26   
Chapter 27   
Chapter 28   
Chapter 29   
Chapter 30   
Chapter 31   
Chapter 32   
Chapter 33   
Chapter 34   
Chapter 35   
Chapter 36   
Chapter 37   
Chapter 38   
Chapter 39   
Chapter 40   
Chapter 41   
Chapter 42   
Chapter 43   
Chapter 44   
Chapter 45   
Chapter 46   
Chapter 47   
Chapter 48   
Chapter 49   
Chapter 50   
Chapter 51   
Chapter 52   
Book 2: Prologue Preview   
About the Author   
Other Books by Elizabeth

#  A Note From the Author

Dear Reader,

I must begin with a hello and a reminder that you're amazing! Whether you're a new reader or an old friend, I'm glad you're here, at the beginning pages of what I hope is a story that entertains your mind and warms your heart. Since this story was written to be a free eBook, it has not been subjected to the regular rigors of a professional edit. It _has_ been beta read, proofed, and edited by some fabulous members of my street team and some amazing writer friends.

Thanks to Stacie Samson Marquart, an original member of the Dreamer Team. Stacie is special reader—the kind of reader writers dream of having in their corner. Thanks to fellow writer, Lisa Buie-Collard, for her input. To Jo Wake, the Grandmother of Dragons, for her sharp eyes and proofing skills. Sandra Cox, fellow blogger and romance writer, many thanks for taking time out of her busy writing schedule to give this story a once-over. We must thank Carrie Butler for creating a stunning cover and for getting the book publishing-worthy. And to my publisher, Karen Fuller of World Castle, for her help and advice. Last but never least, thanks to my intrepid PA, Barbie Pomales, for never losing faith in me and for offering all the kicks in the pants a lazy writer deserves.

If you're interested in checking out my other books and stories, you can find most of them everywhere books are sold, but all of them are available on Amazon. Check out my weekly updates on my blog. And if you'd like insider information, advanced reader copies, and occasional giveaways, be a Dreamer, my private reader group on Facebook.

Hugs and Blessings!

_Elizabeth_

#  CHAPTER 1

It only took one phone call and Cam Vorelli was exactly where he always wanted to be, doing exactly what he swore he'd never do. Cam wasn't one for bad decisions. Or impulsiveness. Normally. Throw Hayden Green into the mix and good sense was benched and emotion took the field.

Cam twisted the knob and it turned, so he swung the door open and stepped inside the house. Hayden let out a scream and threw the laundry basket she carried at him. Cam took a step back. "You called? Asked me to come quietly?"

Hayden covered her heart with her hand. "You're right." She took a suck of air. "I did. Then I forgot I unlocked it."

"Sorry for the scare. Tag home?"

"No." Hayden twisted her hands together. Her face was pale all but the splotches on her cheeks. "We got into a fight. The neighbor called the police, and they hauled Tag off to the Blue Fox."

"I thought people got hauled off to jail?"

"When you're a cop and the responding officer is a drinking buddy, he takes you to your favorite bar, not the pokey."

"I suppose that makes sense."

"Yeah well, he'll either find a bimbo to spend the night with or come home drunker and meaner, so I needed to be out of here ten minutes ago."

Cam wasn't shocked to see Hayden packing up in the middle of the night. The day Hayden married Tag, Cam consoled himself with a bottle of whiskey, a hot date, and his gut's assurance the marriage would never last. Once the hang-over wore off and the happy couple was off on their honeymoon, reality settled in. Marriage wasn't an institution the Vorelli's took lightly. It was a life sentence.

He swore then he'd never come between them. Even if he had loved her first. Married was married and he grudgingly accepted that fact. Hayden was lost to him.

Hayden's movements pulled him from his thoughts. She lifted her arms above her head to twist her silky brown hair into a sloppy bun, leaving that small sliver of flesh, the curve above her hips exposed. His imagination, where Hayden was concerned, could run at the speed of light. That simple flash of flesh was just the beginning. It would only take a single step to be close enough to slide a hand across that skin. It would be warm and smooth. She'd move into him, closing the gap between them—

"You okay, Cam? You look pale? Did I wake you?"

"No." He cleared his throat. "I was out."

Hayden wrinkled her nose. "With Shelley?"

He shook his head. He'd been on a few dates with Shelley Ward. She was fun and easy to be around. And best of all, she liked to have plenty of space. As a matter of fact, they were supposed to see a movie tonight, but she sent him a text that she wasn't feeling like dressing and going out. She was spending the night in her jammies and binge-watching Gilmore Girls. Unless he wanted ice cream and estrogen-soaked television, he might want to find a plan B for the night.

He told her he'd skip the TV drama and shoot pool with friends. She sent him a happy face and a thumb's up. He had considered himself a lucky guy.

Cam realized Hayden was fully dressed — jeans, shoes, and sweater. Hayden was never the sort to spend a minute longer in jeans than she had to. Normally she'd be dressed in yoga pants, baggy tee, and slippers. She always said her feet didn't like shoes, blamed her hillbilly roots.

"Where do you plan to go?" he asked.

"Away from here." Hayden grabbed the laundry basket she'd been carrying and settled it on her hip.

Cam stepped closer. "You're serious?"

"I'm done. I can't do this anymore. The fighting. The arguing. I can't take another day of it. I just can't."

"Have you talked to Tag? Does he know?"

"Do you seriously think I'd be standing here talking to you if he knew? He'll figure it out when he comes home, and we're gone."

For Cam, this was a dream come true — which caused him immense guilt. Tag was his best friend and his cousin. It was as if his constant prayers for their relationship to fail was at the heart of the break-up, not Tag's drinking and philandering.

"Hayden, what's going on?"

"I'm leaving. Now. It's the only way..." She managed to squeak the words out before the first tear fell.

Cam pulled her in for a hug. She felt so small against him. Her body relaxed, leaning into his like she was exhausted. He inhaled her scent of flowers and bleach. He guessed she'd been cleaning. Hayden always cleaned when she was upset. Tilting her chin until she had to make eye contact with him, he tried to sound calm when he asked, "What the hell is going on?"

"We got into a fight. It's all we do any more. Fight."

"Did he hurt you?"

She pulled away from him and headed to her bedroom.

A suitcase lay open and partly filled at the foot of her bed. Tipping the basket over it, she dumped the contents in, pressing them down to make them fit.

Cam followed her, expecting her to answer the question, but she didn't.

"Hand me that doll, would you?" She pointed to a rag doll on a rocking chair. "Lily would have a fit if I forgot it."

Cam grabbed the doll but didn't hand it to her. As much as he wanted to encourage her to run—fast and far from Tag—years of training in doing the right thing made him say, "I'll talk to him."

Hayden shook her head. "It's too late. I signed all the papers and left them with my attorney. He'll file papers for the divorce in the morning." She yanked the doll from his grip and shoved it in her purse. "I'm leaving. I wanted you to give me a ride, but if you're planning to do something stupid like tell Tag I'm leaving, I'll get a cab."

"Where in the hell are you getting a cab around here?"

She shrugged. "Then I'll try to get an Uber."

"That's ridiculous. We don't have Uber either."

Hayden's voice was shrill. "Then I'll walk. Look, if you don't want to be involved, I understand. I know you guys are family. It was stupid of me to call you. I was desperate. No one in my family will help me and all of my girlfriends talk too damn much. I'm leaving tonight. With or without your help."

Cam hated himself, just a little, for the rush of hope her words gave him. Tag didn't deserve her. Hayden was perfect. Smart, sweet, uncomplicated. Cam fell for her in junior high and was head over heels by high school. He just never had the brass to tell her. Never had the gumption to ask her out.

But Tag did. Tag was never shy. He was always the charismatic one—able to charm the pants off a nun, according to Cam's dad and Tag's biggest fan. Quiet Hayden Green was easy prey for Tag Matthews.

"I know it's awkward, but I'm sure he'd rather I drive you than a stranger."

Hayden laughed. "Evidently, you must have had a few beers this evening too. Hell will rain down on you from Tag and your entire family for helping me and you know it."

"You seem pretty committed to leaving. I think it's best I make sure you get where you're going safely."

Hayden bit her lip and her eyes cut to the wall that her room shared with Lily's. "I am committed. I can't do this a day longer."

Cam felt like he needed a minute to absorb the situation: Hayden, his Hayden, was getting divorced? As in single? Available? He closed his eyes a second and cautioned his brain to slow down. The reality was Hayden and Tag fought constantly. In the nine years that he'd been a victim of their drama, fighting and reconciling was their thing. If memory served him right, it was during one of those make-up vacations she conceived Lily. He took a deep breath. "Then it's settled. I'll drive you."

"You're one of the good ones, Cam. I swear, if Tag was just half as trustworthy and dependable as you, I might not be making a late-night exodus." She rubbed her hands together as she looked around the room. "I can't forget anything. I don't want to have to come back." She looked through a few drawers, grabbing a sock filled with cash and another with a flip cell phone. "My escape plan. I started it last year. Leaving a cop isn't easy, that's for sure. Use your credit cards or your cell phone and you're caught before you hit the state line. I learned that the hard way."

"I figure you're an expert at leaving by now."

"I mean it this time. I came back the first time because of my vows. The second for Lily. This time, there is no coming back."

Cam ran a hand through his dark hair. He couldn't escape the guilt he felt for feeling so damned hopeful. She seemed committed. Tag was losing her. At least for now. "Maybe once things calm down, you two—"

"I'm calm. Aren't you listening to me? This has been a long time coming. I didn't hatch this plan tonight." Maneuvering past opened drawers and clothes littering the normally spotless floor, she started on the closet. Tag's clothes were tossed behind her as she weeded out her own. "I'm not leaving because I'm irate. I'm leaving because I'm tired. Tonight, over dinner? He fed me the biggest bunch of bull." She did her best imitation of her husband, " _I need to go help Mac move_... _he needs to do it at night because he works afternoons... and we won't have to deal with the heat and traffic_. Traffic?! Traffic in Hazelton, West Virginia? There isn't even a friggin' red light." Pressing the clothes, hangers and all into the case, she tried to zip it, but it wouldn't budge. Undaunted, Hayden sat on top of the suitcase and pulled the zipper closed.

"So, that's why you're leaving? Because he's helping a friend move?"

"Helping a friend move my butt. I swear to all that's holy; I'm not even shocked by the affairs anymore. It simply dumbfounds me that he still lies about them. So, I told him, why don't we just give it up? Our marriage is nothing but a sham. We could get a nice, friendly divorce and he'd be free to do whatever and whoever he wanted."

"How'd that go?" Cam frowned. He didn't imagine Tag would ever take that well.

"He flipped out. Asked me if that was what I wanted—to do whoever I wanted. Then he threw his beer bottle at me with Lily sitting on my lap. I've put up with his drinking, his laziness, his spending, and his cheating. I will not put up with him throwing crap at me, or my daughter."

"Did it hit you?"

"No, he's as horrible at aiming as he is at everything else. But whether or not he hit me or Lily doesn't matter. His intent was to hit me." She sat on the edge of the bed, looking small and fragile. "I really make him mad, Cam. There are two ways this will go—either I learn to shut my mouth, or I'm going to get my ass beat. His temper gets worse and worse and my mouth runs more and more."

"You shouldn't have to shut up. What you say doesn't justify him being a dick."

Hayden nodded and stood. "This will not be the lesson I teach my daughter. So, give me a ride, or don't. Either way, I'm leaving tonight." She gave the suitcase a tug. The mammoth, soft-sided thing was stuffed to bulging and barely budged.

Fully loaded, it probably weighed a few hundred pounds. Cam stepped forward, his hand brushed hers away as he lifted the suitcase off the bed. Hayden offered him a smile that made his cheeks warm. The hell with Tag. He should snap his neck for making Hayden look so miserable.

"I'll take this to the car. You get Lily."

A smile spread across her face and she wrapped her arms around his waist pressing her cheek to his chest. He resisted the urge to smell her hair; kiss the top of her head. Damn, this was dangerous. In the year he'd been back, he'd tried to love her as a friend and convince himself that was enough. Now, his heart was careening to catch up with the thoughts hope sent racing through his head.

Rational thought finally caught up with him and he pulled away. Hayden blushed and mumbled a few words about being ready in a second before heading to her daughter's room. Hayden paused at Lily's door. Cam stood behind her, looking at the child over her mother's head. The little girl nestled deeper in her bed, as if sensing their restless presence in her room. Hayden took a deep breath and scooped the child up, blankets and all. Lily let out a sigh and snuggled under her mother's chin. Hayden kissed the blonde head and gripped her tighter. She was a tiny girl, even for a four-year-old.

Fearing her resolve would weaken, Cam whispered, "You ready?"

"I'm ready as I'll ever be." Holding her bundle tight to her shoulder, she followed Cam to his car. After he put the suitcase in the trunk, she handed him the sleeping child and headed to the garage, returning with the car seat. She strapped it into the back seat. Cam settled Lily in gently, clicking the latches without making the little girl stir.

Task finished, he looked to Hayden. "I guess that's it?"

Hayden nodded, her arms crossed over her chest. "Yeah." She touched his arm lightly. "Cam..."

She lowered her gaze, but said nothing.

"I'm sorry to involve you. I know this puts you in an awkward situation. I won't ever tell anyone you helped me."

"Don't worry about it. Tag will either get over it, or he won't."

#  CHAPTER 2

Cam wished to hell she didn't smell so good. It was a subtle scent, but it filled his car and made his gut clench. He'd considered her smell one of the best things in life—until the day she married Tag. He'd paid twenty dollars for a dance with the bride at the reception. When he'd held her, her body was warm; her scent strong from the heat in the crowded room. She'd smiled at him like she owned the world, happily unaware the week before their wedding, her new husband screwed his favorite bartender. In Tag's defense, he'd tried to be discreet, but when he pressed the heftier-than-average gal up against the plastic cover of the bar's ice machine, it cracked in half. When her bare ass hit the ice, she let out a squeal that got everyone's attention.

No one at his bachelor party told on Tag. And Brandy Beltrand, the bartender, didn't come clean, no matter how much Cam encouraged her to confess. He and Brandy were pathetic silent witnesses to a union that broke their hearts. Neither of them wanted to be the one to stick their neck out and try to stop it.

Once they said their _I do's,_ he accepted that he shouldn't and probably couldn't break them up. The only thing he could do to protect himself was to leave town and move to a zip code far enough away to ensure he'd never have to worry about bumping into the happy couple. He never could understand—of all the women in the world, why did Tag choose Hayden? He didn't even appreciate her. She was beautiful, smart, gentle... she had a light touch in all things as refreshing as a gentle breeze on a hot day.

And she made him think stupid shit like that.

He rubbed the stiffness out of his neck and reminded himself just because Hayden said she was divorcing him, that hardly meant it was over between them. He didn't know how Hayden expected this to go, but Cam knew his cousin. Even if he didn't love his wife, losing her was still losing. Tag would not give up easily, especially if he found out Cam was now involved. He and Tag had been buddies since they were in diapers, almost like brothers. And like any sibling relationship, there was competition, jealousy, and pride. Cam doubted Tag would ever peacefully accept Hayden moving on and dating another guy, and he'd sure as hell never let it be him.

Cam had already sloppily played his hand where Hayden was concerned. It happened after Tag and Hayden's wedding. As he left their reception, he'd pulled Tag aside and told him, "You realize, Cuz, you ever hurt a hair on her head, I will deal with you."

Tag was a full head shorter than Cam, but what he lacked in stature, he made up in bravado. Tag had given Cam a playful punch to his shoulder and an ornery grin. "I can guarantee you she won't be walking straight tomorrow because her legs will be weak. But I'll try to take it easy on her, for you."

The visual was instant and Cam wanted to drive his fist through Tag's face.

Tag took a step closer and whispered, "I married her buddy, not you. That may take some time to get used to, but you will."

That conversation marked Cam's rock-bottom. Cam left town the next day, never planning to return. And he didn't. At least not until his dad wrapped his car around a tree and couldn't keep up with his construction business.

That was over a year ago. His father was back to work, so why was he still here?

He cracked the stiffness out of his neck. It was hard to be honest, even with himself. He told himself it was because he was offered a good job on the local college football team. But that was a lie. With his background, he could have gotten a job at most any college or university. The truth was, he didn't want to leave Hayden again. He told himself he was good with being friends.

He could be near her and still move on with his life. Shelley proved that, right? They'd only gone out a few times, but he was happy. Okay, so maybe not happy, but he was content. Shelley was fun. More fun than any other woman he'd dated. If only she could give him that same rush as the woman next to him, his life would be so much simpler.

He cleared his throat, glancing in the rear-view mirror to make sure Lily was asleep. The little girl was curled up against the corner of her car seat, mouth cracked slightly, her breaths slow and steady. "You've left before. You sure this time?"

Hayden crossed her legs in the seat, turning toward him slightly with her back against the passenger door. "Definitely. I have to get out, Cam. I don't hate him, but I don't love him either."

"You say that because you're mad. When you two—"

"No. I'm done. I feel nothing. I don't love him anymore. And I'm not saying that out of anger, because I'm not even mad at him. It's like I finally realized we weren't meant for each other. We're not even compatible." She cleared her throat. "As a matter of fact." Short pause. "Last weekend, I heard about Tag and Brandy the week before our wedding and my only thought was—why didn't he just marry her in the first place? She's always been in his life. If he ever truly loved anyone, it's her. Don't you think?"

Cam swallowed and shrugged. Tag always bragged that Brandy knew tricks few women would even consider, and that was why he could never give her up. Cam knew Brandy never made the cut with Tag because she was chunky. Tag was too arrogant to date anyone who was less than perfect. __ But Hayden was right. Ever since they were in junior high, Brandy was always in Tag's life one way or another. If only she'd gone to Weight Watchers, she could have saved everyone a lot of heartache. __ Cam rubbed the back of his neck, ashamed of himself for even thinking of Brandy's weight. Brandy was one of the nicest women.

"Oh, my God, you're not surprised. You know, don't you?"

Cam shrugged.

"Cameron James Vorelli! How long have you known?"

He gripped the steering wheel. The car was suddenly a little stuffy. "I—"

"Don't you dare lie to me. I've always counted you as one of the good ones. Don't you ruin that for me."

He sighed. "You don't need me to verify what you already know."

"Is it true... the week before our wedding?"

Cam frowned.

"Don't you dare do this. You tell me. As my friend, you tell me what happened, right now."

"Fine. He screwed her. You happy?"

Hayden shrugged. "More of a smug feeling than a happy one. Is it true it was at the bachelor party?"

"Why do you want to know this? His nickname is Tag, for God's sake. He didn't get the name by being a Boy Scout."

"I thought—" Hayden shook her head. "He told me he got the name when he little, before he even went to school."

"He got it because he patted his pediatrician on the ass and my dad thought it was hilarious. Little Clifford was going to be a player one day, so Tag was born."

"Why didn't you ever warn me?"

"You wouldn't have listened."

"Of course, I would have. You're my friend."

"He's my cousin."

"So, that's why you protect him?"

"Protect him?"

"Yeah. You cover for him when he screws up. That's why you won't tell me what happened."

"Fine. He nailed her against the ice machine and the lid broke. When her ass hit the ice, she let out this hellacious noise—we all thought someone was torturing a cat or getting murdered, so we ran to check...and well, there they were."

Hayden bit her lip before breaking out in giggles. "He's such a romantic." She laughed until she had to dab tears from her eyes. "Dear God, he's such an idiot. Seriously, why didn't you tell me this six years ago? You were my friend. You could have saved me years of bullshit."

"Come on, you had to know he was a cheat. You guys dated for years. How the hell did you not catch on?"

"Because you always lied for him, you son of a bitch. How many times did I ask you, was Tag really with you, like he said — and every time, what the hell did you say?"

"Like I said—he was family and my best friend."

"I was your friend, too."

How could he explain man code to her? Or that he thought about telling her every single day, but then forced himself to slow down and consider his motives. Was he eager to tell her because he wanted the best for her, or was he paving the way for himself?

"I only believed him because I trusted you."

"Guys don't just rat out other guys."

"Oh, my God. I can't believe I'm having you help me. If I have you drop me off, you'll tell him where I am. Stop at the next exit. I'll call a cab. You men and your brotherhood crap."

"You're not taking a cab."

"You can't tell me what to do."

"You can't make me stop the car."

"I can and I will, unless you promise me you won't tell. You'll be loyal to me now, not him."

He swallowed hard. "I won't tell him."

"Promise me." Hayden's words were hard and a little louder than she probably intended.

Cam was about to assure her he'd do whatever it took to protect her. She meant more to him than any other human on this earth. His confession was stopped short when Lily started to cry. "Please, no fights. Please, Mommy."

The little girl stuffed her fingers in her ears. Irritation ran up Cam's spine. He and Hayden were hardly fighting. How many fights had the little girl seen to be this reactionary?

"It's okay, Lils," Cam said. "Your mom was mad at me for good reason, but I'm sorry."

"You're sorry? No more fights?" Lily pulled her fingers out of her ears, but her hands hovered as if ready to plug them again.

"No more fights." His voice was calm.

"No more fights, baby. Mommy swears." Hayden gave Cam a look of guilt and embarrassment. She sighed and rubbed her eyes.

The little girl bounced her legs. "I need to potty."

"We'll stop. There's a McDonalds up ahead," Cam said.

Once he parked, Hayden reached for the door handle. Cam reached for her, grabbing her arm. "I swear, you can trust me. I'm on your side."

"Are you sure? Are you really ready to help the enemy?"

"You're not the enemy."

"I will be very soon. As soon as those papers are delivered, everyone will hate me. Shoot, even my own family is going to hate me."

"I'll never hate you. I know you, Hayden, I know you're not walking away on a whim."

Tears filled her eyes. He wasn't trying to make her cry. Then she smiled. "Thank you, Cam. I needed to hear that."

He cradled her cheek in his hand. The desire to tell her he loved her burned through his soul, but he was rescued by Lily, who started shaking her legs. "I gotta pee-eee." Hayden was out of the car, unbuckled the child, and hurried her to the bathroom. Cam followed and waited.

#  CHAPTER 3

Trying her best to blink away the tears, Hayden listened to her daughter's voice echo from the bathroom stall without hearing her words. She told herself to keep it together, but it was hard. The guilt alone felt like a knife in her gut. Cam was a good guy and she was putting him in the worst position. She lied when she said she couldn't call anyone else. Mark would have picked her up, or any one of her girlfriends. But the horrible truth was, she feared Tag.

She couldn't tell Cam the whole truth. Of all the people in the world, he was the last person she wanted to know what she'd put up with; what she'd exposed her daughter to. A tear rolled down her cheek. She swiped it away and turned to the sink. The fluorescent lights were harsh. Her skin looked pasty and her eyes shadowed. The woman staring back at her looked and felt so much older than her twenty-six years. Turning on the faucet, she splashed the tepid water on her face, then patted it dry with a brown paper towel.

The door squeaked open behind her. Lily's blonde head appeared in the mirror. Hayden turned to her daughter. The little girl's pants were pulled up crooked, but she looked so confident and proud that she was big enough to do her "business" without her mom's help. The ponytail that held her silky hair was coming out. Hayden had wanted to cut it a bit shorter, but Lily insisted on having long hair—like Mommy's. Hayden would much rather her baby have a different hero.

"You crying, Mommy?"

"No. Soap in my eye."

"Oh. Lemme see."

Hayden squatted. Lily's tiny little hand lifted her eyelid as she did her examination. "No bubbles."

Hayden swallowed and tried not to shed more tears. "It must be all out."

"Good," Lily said placing a little kiss on the corner of Hayden's eye. "There. All better."

Hayden lifted Lily up so she could wash her hands. As Lily washed, Hayden couldn't help but think it would her luck that she'd get herpes in her eye for allowing Lil to examine her eye pre-wash.

Finished, Lily shut off the water. Hayden set her back on the floor then handed her some towels.

"Let's go see what Cam is doing."

Lily took her mother's hand and led her into the restaurant. Cam was standing near the door talking football with a guy in a flannel shirt. Cam looked like a giant— at 6 foot 3 inches, Cam towered above most normal humans. And fresh from the pros, he was still ripped with muscles. Every woman in the place gave him a once-over, some going so far as offering him bold stares and leers. Women could be so shameless. Hayden felt a stab of jealousy, which was absurd.

Cam was her friend. Nothing more. There was a time when she thought there might be something more between them, but then she gave herself a reality check. Cam Vorelli, the most handsome, athletic, and beloved guy to pass through the halls of Hazelton High would never be interested in her. One day, he was destined to marry a model, or someone really special.

But not Shelley. She wasn't good enough for Cam. She was a phony, shallow bimbo. Oh no, Cam deserved way better than that witch.

Lily addressed Cam first. "You wanna get a kitty?"

"A what?" Cam asked.

"A kitty," Lily repeated.

Hayden bent over and adjusted the child's pants. "Cam isn't getting a kitty." She looked up at Cam. "Lily is going to get a kitten."

"A kitten?" Cam whistled. "Aren't you a lucky kid."

"You can get one too. They have lots of them in Mittsburger."

"Pittsburgh," Hayden corrected. "And Cam isn't going to get a kitten. He's just giving us a ride."

"To the place with kittens." Lily said.

"No. He's giving us a ride to Uncle Mark's."

"But, but," Lily's mouth dropped open. "How we gonna get my kitten?"

"I suppose we'll get a car later." Hayden's heart sped up as she realized she still had a lot of holes in her plans.

"Tomorrow?"

"Well, maybe not tomorrow..."

"So, how we gonna get my kitty?"

Standing up straight, Hayden snapped at her daughter. "Enough, Lily. We'll figure it out."

Lily's face puckered. Hayden closed her eyes and rubbed the bridge of her nose. The last thing she needed was to start crying. "I'm sorry, Lil. I just—"

"You still got soap in your eyes?" Lily turned to Cam. "Mommy always gets soap in her eyes, but I fix them."

She could feel Cam staring at her, but she refused to make eye contact.

Cam knelt in front of Lily. "You want some ice cream?"

Lily wrenched her hand from her mother's and linked her tiny hand in his. "Yes. And some chicken nuggets. With a toy. Can I get a toy?"

"You can have whatever you want."

Lily wrapped her free hand around Cam's wrist and practically hung off the man's arm. He ordered the food. Hayden wanted nothing, but he ordered her a coffee and a sandwich anyhow. They said nothing to each other as Lily nibbled at her food. Between bites, the little girl chatted with Cam.

"Did you know I'm getting a kitten? Mommy promised."

"That's what you said. That's pretty awesome. Do you have a name yet?"

Lily looked down at the food in her hand. "I think I'll name him Nugget."

Cam laughed and picked up a French fry. "Or maybe Small Fry?"

Lily giggled. "Or Ice cream. Or Coffee." In her childish zeal, she pointed to the cup of coffee with so much flare, she knocked it onto her mother's lap. Hayden jumped up and started wiping herself off. Lily burst into tears. "I'm sorry, Mommy. It was accident."

"I know, baby." The thin cardigan Hayden wore was soaked. She was able to wring coffee out of the fabric onto the plastic food tray. Cam went for more napkins. Hayden tried to get as much of the liquid sopped up as she could.

"Take it off," Cam said. "It's soaked."

"No, it's fine." She wrapped the wet fabric tighter to her body.

"I've got a sweatshirt in my trunk; I'll go get it."

"No. It's fine." She sat down grabbing napkin after napkin cleaning up the table.

Lily wiped at tears. Hayden leaned over and kissed the top of her head. "It's all right. It was an accident."

"You mad, Cam?"

His lips were pressed in a tight line, but he managed to give the girl a smile. "No, but I'm thinking the name Coffee might be off the table."

Hayden rolled her eyes and laughed at his bad pun. Lily shrugged tiny shoulders and said, "Nugget's better anyhow."

Cam smiled. Leaning back against the padded seat, he rolled Lily's straw paper into a ball and openly stared at Hayden. She ignored his stare. She focused instead on trying not to shiver in the air-conditioned room. Hayden wanted to yell at him to stop trying to figure her out.

"You ready to hit the road, Lil?" Cam asked.

The little girl put her toy and the bag of apple slices in the Happy Meal box. "Ready. Can we get my kitty now?"

"No. It'll be too late. Maybe tomorrow."

"Yay! Tomorrow! Best day ever."

Lily sang a song all the way to the car. None of it made sense. It was mostly just the word kitty over and over. Hayden tried to remain patient. She couldn't let her mood dampen her daughter's spirits. But there were so many holes in her plan. What would she do for money? Why hadn't she driven herself, then she'd have had a car. But then if Tag realized she was gone and caught up with her on the road...

Cam's hand on her shoulder nudged her toward the car. She'd been walking in the wrong direction. She turned toward the car and lifted Lily off her feet. "Let's get you buckled up."

Lily settled into her car seat and helped her mother snap the buckles. Finished, Hayden started to get in, but Cam grabbed her arm and pulled her toward the trunk. He dug a hoodie out of a gym bag and handed it to her. "Take off the sweater."

"It's a cardigan."

"Fine, lose the _cardigan._ You're freezing."

"I'm fine."

"Hayden..."

"Fine." She tried to pull the cardigan off with her body positioned away from him. She didn't want him to see the bruises, but his warm brown eyes skimmed her arms and then his gaze locked on hers. She knew he knew—she was a pathetic basket case. A freaking loser whose life story could be a _Lifetime_ cautionary tale. Don't date a player, and certainly don't marry the dumb ass with the insane thinking that somehow saying 'I do' changes a damn thing.

"Hayden." That was all he said. That one word. But it said it all— the pity, the disappointment. She grabbed the hoodie and walked away.

#  CHAPTER 4

Hayden hurried to the passenger side of the car. She didn't want to talk about the bruises. As Cam got in, Hayden rechecked Lily's buckles and kissed the top of her head. Once the little girl was buckled, she asked, "Ready to go, sweetness?"

"Ready! Where's Dolly?"

Hayden pulled a rag doll from her purse and handed it to her daughter.

"Are you getting a kitten, Dolly?" Lily asked the blonde-haired doll. Hayden gave Lily a kiss on the cheek before settling herself into the passenger seat.

Cam started the engine but didn't put the car in gear. He turned to her, as if debating what to say to her.

"Not now, Cam."

"I'm not letting this go."

"I never figured you would." She pulled the arms of the hoodie down over her hands. Cam's jaw tightened. If Hayden didn't know him as well as she did, she'd be afraid of him. She'd have to cool him down before he left, or he'd kill Tag.

"So, where are we headed?"

"Mark's. Here's his address."

Cam read it and nodded slowly. "He know you're leaving Tag?"

"It was his idea."

"He's a brave guy. You realize Mark's place is likely the first place he'll look?"

"I know." She sighed and looked out the window at the passing interstate lights against the black sky. "I didn't know where else to go. My parents think I'm a failure. My sister is always on Tag's side."

"Seriously? Have you shown her the bruises?"

"Till death do us part. There's no get-out-of-marriage-because-he's-a-dick clause in her mind."

"There's being a dick and there's being abusive. Your family expects you to be his punching bag?"

"Technically, he's never punched me."

"Don't be an idiot, Hayden."

"Um? Excuse me?"

"You sound like you're justifying. A man doesn't have to throw punches to subdue a woman. And that's not me being a sexist, that's just physiology."

"I'm not defending him. I know it's abuse and I know it's wrong. I'm not stupid. I've tried to cover all my bases to make this go as smooth as possible. I called Chief Mitchell before I called you. He came to the house and I told him everything. I don't want to cause trouble for Tag at work, but I won't cower either."

Cam let out a long sigh and his shoulders relaxed. "Good thinking. He'd have more sway over Tag than anyone."

"Chief Mitchell promised to have a talk with him. Let him know he needs to get his act together or possibly lose his job too."

"Maybe this will go smoother than I thought."

"I'm done with all of it. He'll either agree to an amicable divorce or I'll file assault charges. He won't be able to carry a gun, thus losing his job, with a domestic abuse charge."

"Maybe he shouldn't be carrying a gun, you think of that?"

Hayden shrugged. "I'm the only person who makes him lose his temper."

Cam gave her a narrow-eyed look, shook his head and said, "Is that supposed to make me feel better? I'm supposed to be happy that you're the only person he'd likely want to destroy? And exactly how will you keep yourself safe? Not make him angry? That sounds just like—"

Hayden's voice rose, "Please, stop. I'm not being naïve. I'm just trying to get out of this with as much civility as I can. And keep as much of my family as I can." Tears burned her eyes. "I'm not an idiot, Cam. I know I'm going to be blamed for this and you know it. What's a few bruises between a man and wife?"

Cam shook his head and cracked his neck. His face was grim. He looked at her and his jaw twitched but he said no more. Hayden wanted to scream at him for being so thick-skulled. He knew how her family was. At any point in her life was her mother or better-than-perfect sister ever happy with how Hayden lived her life? What she was doing was going to leave her without any family.

"Look, you know how they are—my family and yours. It's going to be hard enough. Imagine if I lost him his job too?" A chill set in and she shivered. "Oh hell. I wouldn't have anyone in the entire town on my side. And your family?" She snorted. "My God, your family is big enough to run me out of town if they decided to make my life miserable." She wrapped her hands in the cuffs of the sweatshirt. "I just want peace in my life."

"There are laws—"

She shook her head. "I'm not making this any more of a battle than it has to be. I told Chief Mitchell everything. It's his call as far as Tag's job goes. That can be on his shoulders. I've got enough to deal with right now."

Cam sighed and gave her hand a squeeze. "You'll get through this. You have friends."

She smiled and cupped his hand with her free one. "Thanks." That was the only word she could get out before hot tears slid down her cheeks.

Cam pulled to the side of the road and pulled her close, tucking her head under his chin. "It'll be all right."

She sighed and relaxed against him. He was so warm, like spirit and flesh were equal. With her cheek pressed against his shoulder, she was safe. Slowly, her tears dried and her breathing calmed. Pulling away, she tried to smooth the creases her tears left on his shoulder.

"Sorry," she said.

"It's all right." He brushed her hair away from her cheek. "Listen to me, Hayden. Ultimately, what other people think or their opinions don't mean a damn thing. All that matters is you. You know that, right?"

She nodded. "And I also realize that I'm teaching Lily what love looks like. If I stay, I'm making my daughter a victim. Right?"

Cam nodded.

"See? I've thought it through. I'm taking care of things, so please trust me."

"I—"

"I'll work this out. One day at a time."

He took a slow breath that made his nostrils flare. "You shouldn't have to go through this."

She smiled. He was sweet not to blame her, but it was her fault. This situation was of her own making. "Don't pity me. I'm the idiot who married him. God, what was I thinking? That he'd change?"

Cam offered her a grin that looked as forced and comfortable as a fat lady in a too-small pair of Spanx. "They say women love a fixer-upper."

"Only the foolish ones," she said. She took a deep breath. "We better get to Mark's. He'll worry that Tag shot us both and left us for dead."

"That's dark." Cam put the car in gear and rolled slowly back onto the empty highway.

Silence filled the car. Hayden decided a change of subject was desperately needed, so she asked, "So, how is Miss Shelley?"

Cam shrugged. "She's okay."

"She _the one_?"

"The one what?"

Hayden punched his arm. "You know, the one."

"How the hell should I know? We've only gone out three times."

"Third time's the charm?"

He shook his head and said no more.

That was probably for the best. Hayden didn't really want details. She hated the idea of Cam being in love with Shelley. Probably because she'd never liked the woman. Not even in high school. She turned her gaze from him and looked out her window. The shadows of the passing trees played across her arms and body like twisted crone's fingers reaching out to cast a hex on her.

"Shell is fun," Cam finally offered. "She's easy to hang out with."

"Careful. That's what I said about Tag."

"I'm not worried."

Hayden pulled her hair back up into a ponytail. Then pulled it loose. Then secured it in a sloppy bun on top of her head.

"Feeling nervous?" Cam asked.

Hayden stopped fidgeting with her hair and shoved her hands under her legs. "Not at all. I turn my life upside down every day. This is so normal, how could I be nervous?"

"You're doing the right thing."

"I know." She looked out the window at the darkened houses. "So, is your return to Hazelton permanent?"

Cam shrugged. "I don't know. It is for now. Dad still can't lift a full load, and he refuses to hire more workers. I'm surprised the guys he has now haven't walked out on him. Since his wreck, he's been meaner than a rattlesnake. If I leave, Mom would be his sole target."

"You think she'd divorce him?"

Cam's laughter filled the car. "Hell no. My mother is a martyr. She's in it to the bitter end."

"Or is she just more devout than, you know..."

"My dad's an ass, but he's never touched her. At least not in anger."

"Yeah well, she behaves. Just ask Tag. She's the perfect woman. _They don't make 'em like Mary Vorelli no more,_ " Hayden mimicked her husband's favorite line. " _Dinner always hot and on the table. House is always clean. And she doesn't bitch when Uncle Cliff wants to have a beer or two._ "

"Tag and my father are real kindred spirits."

Hayden said nothing. Cliff Vorelli was an ass, but she wasn't telling his son that.

Cam flashed her a grin. "Besides, if she divorced him, she might have to date. Can you imagine that? My mom on a date, clutching her purse and advising — _just because the speed limit is 55 doesn't mean you have to go that fast. A body is permitted to go at a more leisurely pace_."

"She's right, you know. A person should go at whatever speed they're comfortable with."

"No, you can't. There are minimum speed limits."

"Really?"

He looked across at her and gave her a brow-dipped grimace. "How the hell do you not know that?"

Her shoulders lifted. "What do I look like? A traffic cop?"

"You're married to a cop."

"That doesn't mean I'm an expert in road rules and all that crap."

"That's right—stop sign." His eyes wrinkled in the corner.

"I still owe you for that. You ass. Telling me that all the stop signs with white rings around them were optional. I believed you. Oh my gosh, you realize—not only did I fail my driver's test, the cop testing me yelled at me. He called me a bimbo who should never, ever be allowed behind the wheel of a car."

"Come on. It was funny."

"No. It wasn't funny," she said with a giggle. "When that cop came back into the testing center, he threw his clipboard on the desk and told the other tester he needed a drink. ' _Damn kids. We're raising idiots.'_ That's what he said. It wasn't until I headed home that I realized _all_ the stop signs have white trim."

"On the bright side, I never took you snipe hunting."

Hayden sighed, nodding slowly. Guys took girls snipe hunting to get them alone in the woods and, if they were lucky, they'd well... get lucky. Sadly, Cam never even offered, but evidently Tag did. "You know, a snipe really is a bird. I googled it. It's a small bird with a slender neck and bill."

"Whatever, Miss Ornithologist. I take it you fell for it?"

"Maybe..."

"I should have known... one of Tag's favorite weekend activities. So, did you find any?"

"No." She sighed. "They don't live in West Virginia."

"Look on the bright side—it was the start of a beautiful relationship."

"That was mean."

Cam cleared his throat as he adjusted himself in his seat. "I'm sorry. That was a stupid thing to say. Look, there's Lily. She's worth all the headache, right?"

She sighed as she took a glance over her shoulder at the sleeping child. "That is true." Turning back to Cam, she admitted, "She is worth it. And she's worth enough to get her out. I can't let her grow up thinking all the screaming and yelling is the way life is supposed to be."

"And the bruises?"

"That only happened lately. And only a few times."

Cam's voice was harsh. "Don't start justifying it, Hayden. Pretty soon, you'll be telling me you deserved it. Go back to your theory that you make him mad and all that bullshit."

Hayden crossed her arms over her chest. Heat rose from her neck to her cheeks. "I thought we discussed this?"

"No, you said later, and it's later. Don't make light of this. He touches you again, I swear, I'll—"

Hayden placed a hand on his arm. "It's all right. You don't have to worry about me. I know it's out of line. I'm only saying that it only escalated to physical fights recently. It's not like I've been taking a beating for years."

The muscle in Cam's jaw twitched, but he said no more. The hum of the car motor and the rhythmic snore from the back seat was the only sound in the car for miles. Cam broke the silence by asking her to read off the directions to Mark's as they approached the Ft. Pitt Tunnel, the subterranean gateway to the city of Pittsburgh.

The city appeared as they emerged from the tunnel as if chiseled out of the Allegheny Mountains surrounding it. From darkness to instant bright light, the little girl stirred, yawning before nestling back in, mumbling something about a kitten and milk.

"Take the downtown exit. He has an apartment on Penn Avenue." She gave him turn by turn directions until they were pulling into a parking garage. He shut off the engine and opened his door. Hayden was unfastening a slowly waking Lily. The little girl rubbed her eyes. "Are we here? To the place with my kitten?"

"Well, we're at Uncle Mark's."

Instantly alert, Lily slid her body out of the car seat and hopped out of the car, her feet dancing on concrete in seconds. "I'm gonna sleep with my kitty." Lily's big brown eyes slowly took in her gray surroundings. A dim light flickered overhead, and a horn honked from the street. Lily stepped closer to her mother, wrapping a hand around her knee. "I don't think I like it here."

"This is just the garage, sweetie. We'll go over there and ride the elevator to Uncle Mark's."

Lily took a suck of breath. "This is his house? It's ugly."

Hayden laughed as she smoothed the child's hair. "It's the parking garage."

"Oh." The child bit her lip. "I s'pose that's all right."

"Well, good. Grab your backpack. I'll get our bags." Hayden went to the trunk and stood there, eyeing the heavy suitcase. She needed to get it, the car seat, and the child to the elevator. As she reached for the bag, Cam dipped in front of her. "I've got these."

"Thanks, Cam."

Hayden unlatched the car seat and Cam grabbed it. All she had to carry was her purse, the toy bag, and Lily. As they neared the elevator, Lily wiggled to get down. Hayden forced her to hold her hand. Looking at Cam, she said, "Well, here's to something new and better. I hope."

#  CHAPTER 5

As the doors slid closed, Hayden leaned her back against the elevator wall. Running away was turning out to be exhausting work.

Lily wrenched herself from her mother's grip to punch buttons on the elevator panel.

"Oh Lily, no." Hayden stepped away from the wall and pulled the little girl's hand away.

"Who cares?" Cam asked. "She's having fun."

Lily grinned and wriggled her hand free to press more buttons.

Hayden shook her head at Cam.

"What? It's the middle of the night, who cares?"

Lily's tiny hand hovered above the emergency alarm. Cam quickly covered the red button with his hand. "All but this one, Lil. This one brings the police."

"Like Daddy?" The doors slid open distracting the child from her question. Cam pressed the close door button, and the elevator resumed its ever-so-slow ascent to the eighth floor.

Hayden pressed against her cheek, biting nervously.

"It'll be all right," Cam said.

"It's just...he's not a bad dad."

"Who said he can't continue to be a good dad? Even divorced, he's still her father."

"But it's two different houses. Two Christmases. Oh, dear God, I feel sick. All these damned elevator stops are making me queasy."

"Mommy sweared," Lily shouted with glee, holding out her hand, palm up.

Hayden took a deep breath and dug into her pocket for a quarter. "Stupid idea. Paying her for swears. I'm going to go broke."

The doors slid open for the final time. The brass 8 affixed to the hall wall was a welcome site. Stepping out onto the thick-pile carpet, Hayden's feet moved soundlessly toward Mark's apartment.

Mark Salvan had been Hayden's best friend since kindergarten. Mark— the theater-loving, way-too-well groomed, therefore most likely the gayest member of the student body— was the perfect pairing to Hayden's quiet, bookish persona.

"I'll be!" A voice called from behind them. "If it isn't Cam the Man Vorelli."

Cam turned, a grin spreading across his face. "Rudy Dunn, you amazing SOB."

"What are you doing here? You playing?" The very large, approaching hulk of a man engulfed Cam in a hug.

"No, I'm not playing. Coaching for a small college an hour-or-so south of here."

"For real? You hung it up?"

Cam nodded. "I injured the shoulder and decided you were right. I'd never last in the league more than a few years, why tear the hell out of my body for a few million dollars?"

The men shared a laugh.

Rudy sobered first. "I wish I'd known you were living around here. We coulda been hangin' out."

"Give me a call sometime."

"I will, man. Number still the same?"

Cam nodded. "Sure is."

"Excellent. You here visiting? Got friends in the building?"

"A mutual friend. I'm dropping Hayden off to stay with Mark Salvan."

"Summer of Hayden, Hayden?" Rudy asked, a single eyebrow lifted high, worry lines instantly creasing his dark skin.

"Uh yeah," Cam said. "Hayden Matthews," Cam said, nodding to Hayden. "This is my friend Rudy Dunn. We were Saints together."

Rudy laughed. "We were Saints all right." He gave Cam a wink then grabbed his hand and pulled him in for a chest bump/man hug. "You take care, my friend. I'm going to be calling you; you better answer. I'll make sure you keep your head clear."

"Sure thing."

Rudy gave Hayden a look that felt nothing short of menacing. "Take care of my boy, you here?"

"Of course," Hayden said with a nervous swallow. After Rudy left, Hayden turned to Cam. "Did I miss something? Does he hate me? Do I know him?"

Cam shrugged. "Rudy is cagey. Don't let it bug you."

"What did he mean, _the summer of Hayden_?"

Cam ignored her question and knocked on Mark's door.

The door swung open. There was Mark. Handsome as any underwear model, his dark hair brushed back from his face and a shadow dusting his square jaw. He greeted them with an ushering bow. "Miss Lil. I see you brought your mother, and oh my, is it the dashing Cameron Volleri? I must say Boy Scout, you have aged better than a fine wine."

Cam realized he was insane to think dodging Rudy to get to Mark's would be the less anxiety causing option. He probably had a better chance of hooking up with Mark than he ever would Hayden.

Mark broke into a hearty laugh, baring perfectly straight, impeccably white teeth. "Don't worry, cutie, I wasn't hitting on you. Come on in, guys. Cam, set that suitcase down before you get a hernia. I'll take it back in a bit," Mark said before turning his attention to Hayden. "Love, I gave you the master. You'll have your own bath. And the walk-in closet is the perfect hidey-hole for Lil. I had a carpenter come in and build her the most darling princess bed."

"You shouldn't have done that."

"It was my pleasure. I've been wanting you to come stay with me for so long, I had to make it grand."

"But you didn't have to rearrange your house."

"Yes, I did. Darling, this is going to be a long stay. I'll accept nothing less. Besides, I have the entire other wing of the apartment. I took the opportunity to tear down the wall between the two bedrooms and made myself the master of all suites. Two and two's are the hot sellers now. I saw it on TV, and we all know TV never lies."

Lily tugged on Mark's shirt. "You got toys, Uncle Mark?"

He lifted Lily up and gave her a spin. "Do I ever. Come with me, girlfriend. I think you're about to be impressed."

Lily's voice was breathless as she turned to her mother. "Uncle Mark has toys for me."

Once Mark and Lily left the room, Cam moved a step closer to the door. There was no reason for him to stick around. "Mark seems to have everything worked out."

Hayden rubbed the back of her neck. "Mark has been planning my escape from my marriage since the bridal shower."

"He's a good friend. You're lucky to have him."

"I am." She closed the distance between them and gave Cam's arm a squeeze. "You're a good friend, too. I appreciate the ride. I swear, I'll never tell Tag you helped me. I don't want to cause a problem between you guys."

"Don't worry about that. You just take care of yourself and Lily. Understand?"

"I will."

"And call me if you need me."

"Oh! Here." Hayden dug through her purse pulling out a grocery receipt and scribbling a number on it. "My new number. I turned off my other phone. Tag could trace it."

"You realize, here will be on his short list of places to check?"

"I know. But all he knows is that Mark lives in Pittsburgh. This is a pretty big city to comb through."

"He's a cop. He'll be able to find this address."

"He'd be a fool to do it. It would be an abuse of power. That's what my attorney said. Mark is totally off the normal grid. You can't find him with an internet search and to use police resources is against Mark's civil liberties, or something."

Cam nodded. "It won't matter to Tag, so stay alert."

Hayden nodded. "Tag loves his job. Hopefully, he'll use his head."

"Let's hope. You have my number in your new phone, right?" Cam asked.

"One of my only contacts. Anyone else I call would probably give the number to Tag. I trust you won't."

"I won't."

Cam looked down the hall toward the noises Lily and Mark were making. "Sounds like she's settling in."

"Mark spoils her. It's hard to tell what all he bought her."

"That's good." There was an awkward silence. "I suppose I should go..."

"I appreciate this. I know it's late and you have work in the morning..."

Cam nodded. "Remember, if you need anything, call me."

Hayden walked him to the elevator. When he pushed the down button, Hayden grabbed his hand and squeezed it so hard it pinched. He looked at her. Her eyes were round, almost panicked.

"Tell me one more time that I'm doing the right thing," she said.

He gave her hand a squeeze and pulled her in for a hug. "You are doing the right thing. No one has the right to put bruises on you. Not ever. Don't forget that."

"I won't."

The elevator doors opened with a ding. A lady held the door open for him, so Cam let her go and stepped in. He gave Hayden one last look and then he was gone.

* * *

"Have you ever met your neighbor, Rudy?"

"Football player?"

"Yeah."

"Of course. He's a nice guy. He's in the gym all the time. He even made me an exercise program."

Hayden chewed on her lip. "He's a friend of Cam's; it seems. We ran into him in the hall. He asked Cam if I was the _summer of Hayden_ Hayden, then he glared at me."

Mark laughed. "If he's a good friend of Cam's, he probably doesn't like you at all."

"Me? Why?"

"Because Cam loves you, ya twit. Anyone who knows him, knows that any time you're in his life, he'll likely become collateral damage."

Hayden's jaw dropped. "What? How can you say that?"

Mark shrugged. "Poor guy is going to end up with a broken heart."

"I'd never hurt him. He's my friend."

Mark shook his head. "Are you seriously that thick-headed?"

"Evidently, I am." Hayden plopped her tired body on the couch. Mark was usually in her corner, now he was calling her names? This had been one hell of a long night.

Mark sat beside her, grabbing her hand and giving it a squeeze. "Sweetheart, you've got to know Cam loves you."

Hayden's eyes narrowed. "Of course, he's my friend."

"No, not love you as a friend. Loves you, loves you. Seriously, do him a favor and don't involve him any further unless the guy has a chance."

"A chance? At what?"

Mark spoke slowly, as if she was a child, "Don't involve Cam unless you want a relationship with him."

"We're friends..."

"You know what I mean, Hay Seed. Cam _loves_ you."

"Don't be silly."

Mark shrugged and gave Hayden a look she often gave Lily when she was too exhausted to argue any more. "Cam has loved you for years. Don't hurt him, sweetie. That would be cruel."

"I'd never hurt him. You know me, Mark. I would do anything for Cam. You guys are the best friends I've ever had. I love you both like family."

"I know, honey. The difference is, I don't want to play house with you, and he does."

"He does not. In all the years we've been friends, he's never said anything."

"You always had Tag. When did Cam ever have a chance?"

"I wasn't always with Tag. I was friends with Cam first. We've been friends since junior high. I didn't start dating Tag until I was seventeen."

Mark shrugged. "Just saying, I'm your biggest fan, but even I'd think you were a horrid little bitch if you led him on."

Before she could respond with any sort of defense, Mark stood and stretched, ending the conversation.

"You hungry?" he asked. "We should order a pizza." Mark pulled out his phone and scrolled through his contacts. "I'm starved."

Hayden grabbed the phone from him. "This is serious. No food. I want to know why you think Cam likes me."

"Loves you. Like, he has a serious hard-on-to-have-you kind of love."

"That's ridiculous."

"Is it? Don't be so dense, sweet cheeks. The guy has always done anything you want. Good God, he watched the Sound of Music with you how many times?"

"He likes it..."

"No straight man, sans me, and maybe a few who may or may not be hiding in the closet, likes that movie."

"But Cam is...well, perfect. He could have any woman. Did you see some of the women he dated when he was playing for the Saints? And Shelley, though she's a snotty, slutty little bitch, is a knock-out."

"You're not exactly chopped liver. You've got that vulnerable, doe-eyed Adelaide Kane thing going on."

"Adelaide who?"

Mark rolled his eyes. "Kane." He snatched his phone from her hand. "Do you watch nothing good on TV? Adelaide Kane plays Mary Queen of Scots on _Reign_. Excellent show. So many delicious queens. Even Elizabeth is a knock-out in this version."

"And you wonder why people think you're gay..."

"Don't be pissy." Mark tapped on his phone then handed it to her. "Adelaide is gorgeous. I was complimenting you and you're trying to pick a fight."

Hayden looked at the dark-haired actress. "She is gorgeous. I don't look anything like her."

"You're so humble...probably why you let sweet Cam slip right past you."

Hayden stood. "You're crazy. This has been a long day and I'm exhausted. If you don't mind, I'm going to get some sleep."

"Fine, no pizza. I suppose I'll show you to your room."

Hayden needed a quiet place to think. Mark tossing Cam in the relationship mix made a complicated day practically suffocating.

"Ahh, Hay Seed, don't look so pinched. Things will work out. I only mentioned the stuff with Cam because I like the guy and I hate for him to get hurt."

"He is the last man on this earth I would hurt."

"I know. I know. Come here, give me a hug." He patted her on the back of her head like she was a puppy before escorting her to her room. He showed her how to work the hidden TV and where to find the extra blankets and pillows before leaving her alone, quietly pulling the door closed behind him.

With Mark gone and Lily sleeping peacefully in the princess bed Mark set up for her in the most immense walk-in closet Hayden had ever seen, she settled into bed. Her body was exhausted, but her brain was wide awake. Did Cam love her? There was that one moment at her wedding reception—

_In the midst of all the chaos that was her wedding, there was Cam. After the customary father-daughter, husband-wife dances, Cam dropped his twenty dollars in the basket for a dance with her. When he wrapped her in his arms, he pressed her into him, gripping her as if he'd never see her again. Stripped of his tux jacket and tie, his crisp white shirt was a deep contrast to his dark skin. He smelled of whiskey and soap. His lips brushed against her ear, his warm breath sending a tingle through her body. "My cousin is one lucky son of a bitch."_

She'd always assumed he'd made the comment out of politeness, but lying in bed, staring at the ceiling, she replayed that moment over and over in her mind. _Did it mean he loved her?_ One thing was certain—Cam always made her feel like everything would be all right—as long as he was around. That wasn't love, was it?

#  CHAPTER 6

Cam yawned. He didn't get much sleep last night. He was too busy wrestling with hope and guilt. If Hayden did get divorced, could there be a chance for him? That thought alone made him a horrible friend, so he wouldn't even acknowledge the ones that left him sweaty-palmed and dry-mouthed all night.

She asked him for help, not to complicate her life. Was he taking advantage of her? If not her, the situation? He was acting like he was seventeen again and love struck by a girl with a charming smile.

He did love that smile. It always started slow, as if she was trying to stay cool, but then humor would overtake her revealing a smile so broad and radiant, it made her glow. Before Tag got in the way, Hayden was his. After Tag, he stuck with her, firmly planting himself in the friend-zone with Mark. Being the eternal friend might be all right with Mark, who was most likely playing for the other team, but for Cam, it sucked. Having to sit back and watch his enigmatic cousin steal her away hurt as much as a ninja-kick to the gut.

"What the hell, Vorelli? You plan to blow that whistle or just suck on it?"

"Shit," Cam muttered. He'd forgotten to blow the whistle to start the next drill giving his players a full minute break. That earned him dirty looks from the head coach but appreciative grins from his players.

"Hit it," he yelled, blowing the whistle that sent the rows of players through their morning drills. His group of guys were now a full set behind Coach Ward's crew. If he had them make up the missed set, they'd be late to the offensive run-throughs. Best to cut it short and get on with it.

As the scout team headed toward the center of the practice field, Cam blew his whistle again and waved his group on over. "Take ten and be back on the field ready to go."

Coach Ward approached him slowly. The gray-haired man's head was moving back and forth. Even against the glare of the sun, Cam could tell he was pissed.

"Look Cam, I heard you were being courted by South Lake next season, but you're still the offensive coordinator here. Holy shit. Your boys barely broke a sweat today."

Instantly red-faced, Cam said, "South Lake has nothing to do with anything. I already told you; I turned down the job."

"Then what the hell's going on?"

"Nothing. Just didn't sleep very well last night."

Coach Ward gave him a look. His upper lip curled and his eyes narrowed. "Didn't sleep or stayed out all night? I drove by your place and you weren't home. Where the hell did you go?"

"You're checking up on me? What the hell?"

"Date my baby girl and I check on things. You gonna answer the question or not?"

Heat rose from Cam's collar to his neck. He didn't consider a few dates _dating_. He swallowed his irritation. Shelley was Ward's daughter. He supposed he could answer the question. "A friend needed help...moving."

"Mmm, hmm. That friend have tits? I heard you were at McDonald's with some little piece." Ward spit a line of tobacco juice in the grass and planted a pair of beefy hands on his hips. "I suggest you remember what's important around here. A winning season and Shell."

"I think I know how to run my life."

"Better use your head. Hurt my little girl, and you'll regret it."

Cam's spine stiffened and his jaw clenched. "You threatening me, Bob?"

"Screw around, and you'll see." Coach Ward waddled off with his crooked, short-legged gait.

Cam took a deep breath. What the hell was he thinking going out with Ward's daughter? Throw in the bonus annoyance of her grandfather being the president of the college and his boss, he felt painted into a tight corner.

His world felt as uncomfortable as the damp grass that seeped through his shoes and soaked his toes. As he walked back toward the locker room, he considered Shelley. His life would be so much simpler if he could fall for her. They had a lot in common. Their first "date" was a scouting trip to find a center. They'd spent a week together driving around the east coast interviewing high school seniors. Shelley was easy-going and fun to be with. So, why wasn't he crazy about her?

Because Hayden was always there. Always a distraction. Not once had he ever dated a girl he didn't compare to her sooner or later. He thought of Rudy and his _Summer of Hayden_ comment. Cam cringed at the memory. The summer after the wedding was tough. It was like someone ripped open his chest and he was bleeding out— not to mention the pain. Rudy and some other players meant well that summer when they hooked him up with a lingerie model. She was gorgeous and should have been a total distraction for any red-blooded man, but in a moment of passion, he called her Hayden and she didn't let it slide. At every party the team threw and she attended, she made sure to publicly excoriate him, sometimes yelling across crowded rooms, "What's my name again, bitch?" Or she'd sidle up beside him and say, "Hey Hayden. Oh sorry, that's not your name?" In hindsight, the girl— Holly— had a pretty good sense of humor about it. He felt like a real shit to have done that to her. Or to any woman, so, he stopped dating. It wasn't fair to ask women to play a game where the rules were rigged and they were destined to lose.

Then there was Shelley. She was the most uncomplicated woman he'd met in a long time. Friendly and humorous—she could even talk football. She made being back in Hazelton tolerable. He could even be around Hayden and her husband without feeling like all the air was sucked from the room. His life was moving on.

Then with one phone call, it came to a screeching halt.

"You all right, Coach? You look like you're about to vomit."

Chase Prescott, the willowy, red-shirt quarterback looked concerned.

"I'm fine. I was out late last night and didn't get much sleep."

"I understand, Coach. Well, I mean I don't, cause you know I wouldn't go out during the season, but I've heard..."

Cam knew Prescott knew all about going out. The players didn't realize most of their locker room conversations carried out into the hall. But the kid liked his spot on the team enough to lie. Cam respected that. "I just need a cup of coffee."

"You want me to get it for you? Coach Ward said to tell you to get your ass on the field. Now."

Cam took a deep breath. Maybe it was time to end things with Shell. No matter what happened or didn't happen with Hayden, he didn't need this shit. "Tell him," _to go screw himself,_ "...that I'll be right there."

"All right."

Cam went to the bathroom. Washed his hands. His face. Filled his cup with coffee. Then meandered back to the practice field when he damned well felt like it.

Once practice was over, he gathered up his gear and headed straight for his car, bypassing the coaches gathered in Ward's office. He'd had enough of the cranky old fat ass for one day.

Safely in his office, he thought of Hayden. Wondered how she was doing. He wanted to call her and make sure she was all right. There was nothing wrong with that. He dialed her number. She answered on the first ring.

"Hey, Cam. I was just thinking of you...hoping I didn't cause you any problems."

"Not at all. I was calling to ask you the same question."

"I'm fine. I have to admit, I'm a little nervous today. My attorney said Tag will be served the papers before noon. I don't know how he'll take it."

"You want me to talk to him?"

"No. I appreciate the offer, but I don't think that would help. He's very jealous of you, you know."

Cam understood that feeling completely. "No, I didn't know that."

"Really? Hmm. I always thought it was pretty obvious." Hayden took a deep breath. "But seriously, don't worry about it. It'll be all right. I'm doing the right thing— I am doing the right thing, right?"

Guilt twisted his gut. Was he encouraging her for her own good, or was it for his? Then he thought of the bruises on her arms. "You're doing the right thing. Think of Lily. Do you want her to marry a guy like Tag?"

"No. Never."

"Then that's your answer."

"Thanks, Cam. You always make things make sense."

He didn't know what to say. Her voice made his chest feel tight. It was kind of low, hesitant. On a good day, when she smiled, he could hear it in her voice. There was no smile today. He could hear the growing fear in her voice. She couldn't back out now. "Listen Hayden, everything will be all right. I'm not saying things will be easy, but you're headed in the right direction."

Hayden sighed. "Always the sensible one. What would I do without you and Mark?"

Cam straightened the stapler on his desk. He hated being reminded of how deep he was in the friend-zone.

"Mommy, Mommy." He could hear Lily over the phone. "Did you ask Cam if he saw Dolly?"

"Shh," Hayden tried to silence the little girl.

"Dolly?" he asked. "Did she leave it in my car?"

"I think, but don't worry. I'll get her another one."

"You can't buy a Dolly. They don't sell Dollies in stores," the little girl whined.

"I'll check when I'm done here. If it's out there, I'll run it up." Cam was ashamed of how badly he hoped the doll was there and needed to be returned.

"You don't have to do that," Hayden assured. "You could stick her in the mail."

"The mail?" Lily cried. "No, Mommy. She'll die."

"Lily," Hayden's voice was firm. "Go color while I'm on the phone."

"I don't want to color..."

"Lily." Hayden had the mommy-command voice down. "Hush and go."

"Fine. You're a mean mommy."

Cam couldn't help but chuckle. He could see Lily in his mind. She could pout fiercer than anyone he'd ever met.

"I'm a wicked witch," Hayden sighed into the phone. "This morning she wanted her favorite cereal bowl. How do I explain it's at home, and we're not going back there?"

"Does she miss Tag?"

"Not yet. She's used to him being gone for days. But I figure she will, eventually."

"It's not like she'll never see him again."

"I know. You're right. I keep thinking of this as an all or nothing sort of situation. Probably my sister constantly telling me, _you'll ruin your family. Poor Lily will grow up without a daddy._ She'll have a dad; he just won't be making my life miserable. And then there's Sara— she's like— _you don't divorce a man for cheatin', you make him buy you something. That's how I got my dining set._ God, she's such a moron. Remember when she told Mr. Smith in American History that Hitler wasn't dead? He was frozen and on a deserted island?"

"Yeah, I remember. I think he retired after that year."

"She isn't the brightest light, but she's always been a good friend. When I was in the hospital with my appendix, she took care of Lil."

Cam heard all about that. Sarah took care of things all right. Played lady of the house real well.

"Oh my God, I bet she screwed him, didn't she?"

"I didn't say anything."

"I'm beginning to realize that it's when you're silent, you're hiding stuff."

"I'm not hiding anything. I didn't do anything."

"But Tag did, didn't he?"

"I'm not saying anything."

"That bitch. I mean, I expect it out of him, but she's my friend."

"Seriously Hayden, I don't want in the middle of this."

"You know about all of his affairs, don't you?"

"I better get going."

"This isn't the end of this, Cameron James. You'll tell—"

"No, Hayden. I'm not going to tell you anything. I won't be your informant. You want confessions, you talk to Tag. Though at this point, does it really matter? You can't exactly move forward if you're obsessing about the past." He knew he sounded mean, but damn it, she wasn't a stupid woman. All she had to do was use an ounce of imagination and she'd be able to figure out who all her husband had been screwing. "I've got to go. Shell is calling me."

It was a lie, but he felt like he had to say it. It was a spiteful move, but hell, he was feeling spiteful.

#  CHAPTER 7

"Honey, I'm home!" Mark yelled from the doorway.

Hayden rolled her eyes as he made his way into the kitchen. Leaning over her shoulder, he whistled as she stirred the pot of spaghetti noodles. "How very domestic of you. You know, my dear, you may be the first person to use that stove."

"It was the shiniest one I've ever seen."

"I thought about taking out the kitchen and putting in a sauna, but I decided to keep it to maintain the resale value."

"A house without a kitchen? You're ridiculous." Hayden shook her head and laughed.

Mark turned to the refrigerator, caressing its smooth stainless sides. "Now, this, my beverage master, was the kitchen's savior." He opened the fridge door and pulled out a beer. He popped the lid, as it hissed, he said, "Perfection." He took a long drink. "Ahh. Icy cold. I set the thermostat for the bottom of the fridge lower for the beer and the upper half warmer for the wine." He gave the black handle a stroke. "She never fails me."

"Speaking of the fridge, I noticed you maintain quite the liquid diet."

"Indeed, so that reminds me— where, pray tell, did you find the food? Beg from neighbors? Schlep your pretty self to the local grocer?"

"I ordered them online and had them delivered."

"No shit? That's a thing?"

"Welcome to the cyber age."

"Well, I'll be. I may start eating at home more." He took a long drink. "Oh, who am I kidding? I have no intention of ever cooking."

Hayden laughed. Mark's kitchen was a modern marvel with high-end appliances and sleek quartz counters. A far cry from her kitchen with its ancient appliances and banged-up cabinets. In a kitchen as grand as Mark's, she expected to find free-range and organic this and that—instead, she found a large pantry stocked floor to ceiling with beans, bottled water, and Diet Pepsi and a refrigerator full of beer and wine. Hayden had to ask, "What's with the bean stash? Have you totally lost your mind or is it part of some diet I've never heard of?"

"It's my apocalypse hoard. Beans may not be fancy, but them and the water will keep a body alive."

"And the Diet Pepsi?"

"They go with the Twinkies. Even in the darkest times, a man needs dessert."

"I missed the Twinkies."

"They're in the broom closet."

Hayden gave him a look. "So, where's your broom?"

Mark pulled off a chunk of Italian bread and dipped it in the sauce. "Seriously? You think I have a broom? This building has maid service and I have Franny Sue for emergency clean-ups." Franny Sue, a graying Beagle with lazy ways opened her eyes, scanned the room, and promptly went back to sleep. It was as if she knew better than to end a good rest thinking there might be a food spill in this apartment.

Mark popped a piece of sauce covered bread in his mouth. "My God, that is wonderful. I haven't had home-cooked sauce since my nana died. Mother tried for years to cook, but she was a disaster. Poor woman can wax eyebrows like a fiend, but she's all thumbs in the kitchen."

Hayden called for Lily as she drained the noodles. The little girl said she'd be there in just a minute...she was in the middle of something and couldn't be interrupted.

Hayden rolled her eyes.

Mark laughed. "I love that girl. She's such a little genius. I went out with one of the women in our costume department and had to break it off because I couldn't understand a word her little hobbit said. I kept having to have her translate and it got tedious."

"You're awful. Calling a child a hobbit."

"You're zoning in on the Hobbit thing and not the break-up?"

"Oh, I totally expect you to find a reason to break up with a woman. Any woman. You're the pickiest man I've ever met."

"Don't be a hater, love. You're just jealous of my selectiveness. Look where not being picky got you."

"Ouch."

Mark shrugged. "Too soon?"

Hayden turned the heat off under the sauce. "More like too often."

"True. I feel like I need to drum it into your head. Our little Lil is like a little sponge. She has my flair for drama and fashion and her mother's sweet heart. I don't want her to learn to be a doormat for a man from her sperm donor."

"He's better than a sperm donor. Tag is guilty of a lot of things, but he—"

Mark held up his hand. "I have nothing nice to say about the man, other than he sired Lily. That's it. Other than that, he's a bad influence and a danger to her."

Hayden grabbed the pot of sauce and carried it to the table. She took a deep breath. There was no use arguing with Mark about Tag. Her friend had seen too much over the years to ever be convinced there was any good in Tag Matthews.

Hayden gave him a pat on his head. "She's the biggest reason I'm here. I won't let her marry a guy like Tag. I want her to be strong and independent. I want her to be better than me."

"Now, darling." He wrapped an arm around her waist and pulled her in for a side hug. "You are a wonderful woman. I'm so proud of you for leaving. You are showing Lily how strong women deal with asshole men."

"You know what guys," Lily said walking into the kitchen carrying her opened coloring book. "I have worked and worked I still don't have this done." Lily set the Barbie coloring book on the table with a shake of her head.

Mark picked it up and flipped through the pages of good-work-for-a-four-year-old pictures. "You're finishing the whole book?"

"Yes, isn't that what you do, Uncle Mark?"

"I don't think I finished every page of a coloring book in my entire young life."

"Really?" Lily asked with big eyes.

"Lil always finishes one book before going on to another." Hayden smoothed her daughter's hair.

"Now, that is impressive," Mark said.

"Those were all baby coloring books. This is my very first big girl coloring book. This may take until I am old and in college."

Mark laughed. Hayden helped Lily into her seat before dipping her a plate of buttered noodles. Lily preferred her noodles plain, picking them up by hand and slurping them one by one.

"When do I get my kitten, Uncle Mark?"

Mark wrapped noodles around his fork until it looked like it was about to give birth. "How about we go when we're done eating?"

"Really? Can I pick out my kitty?"

"Of course."

Lily slid halfway out of her chair.

"Where are you going?" Hayden asked. "Uncle Mark said after dinner. Not right now."

"But the kitten store. It'll close."

"We're not going to the store, Lily. I work with a crazy cat lady who always has kittens she needs to get rid of." He offered Hayden a frown. "Poor woman. It's like people know she won't turn away any creature and so every other month, some heartless bastard dumps a pregnant cat on her porch."

"Heartless bastard," Lily echoed.

Hayden gave Mark a look. Mark blushed. He patted Lily on her hand. "Don't repeat what Uncle Mark says when he's angry. That's a bad word."

Lily's mouth dropped open, then she smiled, and held out her hand.

Mark took a deep breath and stuffed his hand in his pocket and pulled out a dollar. "There. I've got credit for three more swears."

Hayden bit her lip. Cam offered to bring the doll up. She hated to leave the apartment with the possibility that he might stop by. Not only would it be rude to not be here to thank him, she was eager to see him. Maybe too eager. She bit the side of her nail. "Could we do it tomorrow?"

"To-morr-ow," Lily wailed and dropped her chin to her chest. "You said that yesterday."

"It's just that..." Hayden paused. What could she say? Cam _might_ come up? Or he might not. But in the slimmest chance that she could see him...

"Don't pout, Lil, you'll get scowl wrinkles when you're old and people will always think you have sand in your pants."

Lily added a curious stare to her pout and crossed her arms tight across her chest.

Mark gave Lily a wink. "Hayden dear, I was hoping Miss Lily and I could go tonight."

"But I can't—"

"Hayden, darling, you aren't invited anyhow. I wanted tonight to be a sort of bonding moment between a young girl and her eligible, handsome uncle. As a matter of fact, I'm thinking we should plan to leave at," Mark looked at his watch, "say 6:00 when the lady down the hall leaves for the gym?"

"You're using my daughter to troll for women?"

"I wouldn't call this woman a troll. She's more like a goddess. She was on the Olympic volleyball team. Legs for miles. Short, platinum hair, snappy dresser. I may have found my true love. I just need to get her attention."

Hayden cleared her throat. "You may want to make sure she knows you're not gay."

"You think?" Mark frowned. "Damn people and their snap judgments. Just because a man works in theater—" Mark glanced at Lily who stretched a tiny hand toward him. "Put that hand down. I paid ahead." Lily giggled.

"It doesn't help that you can sing along with most every musical..." Hayden added.

"You know, I just realized I may be a lesbian trapped in a man's body. I like girly things and girly parts...though, I would be the fashion-conscious sort of lesbian who never wears flannel."

"What's a lesbian?" Lily asked.

"A thespian is someone who works in the theater," Mark said without missing a beat. He gave Hayden a wink.

Satisfied with the answer, Lily sucked in a few more strands of spaghetti. "I'm full. Can we go get my kitten?"

"In about..." Mark looked at the gold watch on his wrist. "Thirty-seven minutes."

"Thirty-seven minutes?" Lily whined. "That's so long from now."

"But we have to wait so we can run into the nice lady at the elevator. Maybe get her number..."

"Mommy can do that while we get my kitten."

"Oh no," Mark said. "Your mom can't be involved. We don't want the nice lady to think Mommy is my girlfriend."

"Why not?" Lily asked.

"So, I can talk her into being my girlfriend. I can't do that if I already have one."

"Daddy does."

Hayden choked on her spaghetti. Coughing until her eyes watered, she couldn't catch her breath in order to respond to her daughter's comment.

Mark lowered his head until he made eye contact with Lily. "Sweetheart, some men measure their manhood by the number of girlfriends they have. Real men find a good one and do whatever it takes to make that one woman happy."

"I'm gonna be a good one," Lily assured.

"You most certainly will. You deserve to be treated like a princess. Starting right now."

Lily squealed and clapped her hands. "Kitten time!"

Mark stood and lifted the child from her chair, he danced around the room with her as he sang, "Pussy cat, pussy cat, where are you..."

Lily giggled, her head tipped back, chubby cheeks flushed.

"Come on, sweetie, let's get you ready to go." Hayden took her daughter's hand and led her to the room they shared. As Hayden put on the little girl's shoes, she gave her her ground rules. "You have to sit in your car seat. No arguing with Uncle Mark. No telling him that you don't have to use your car seat when you ride with Daddy."

"But I don't—"

"But you should. Daddy is being bad to let you out of your seat."

"Daddy's can't be bad. They're dads and they make the rules."

Hayden groaned. Her poor baby was being groomed for a Neanderthal husband. One who made all the rules and ran a harem. She definitely had to break this cycle.

"Dads don't get to make all the rules and your dad has no right to let you out of a car seat. You could get hurt, very badly if there was a wreck."

"Dads don't wreck, only Moms do."

Hayden nearly dropped the shoe she was holding. She wanted to scream, 'Your dad is a complete and total ass', but she didn't. It was important to not alienate the other parent, right?

"I'm sure your dad was teasing. Trust me, dads wreck too."

"Not my daddy."

"Yes, your daddy has wrecked more than a few cars." Hayden grabbed Lily's jacket off the chair with the force one would use to pick up a boulder. Her cheeks were suddenly hot and her jaw clenched so tight she could feel a headache growing at the base of her skull. She couldn't undo all of the wrongs in a single day, so she took a deep breath. Besides, screeching at Lily wasn't going to prove her point. It would probably just upset the child and push her to miss her derelict, full-of-shit father sooner rather than later.

"All right. Let's get you out of here. A night with a man like your Uncle Mark is such a good idea."

Lily started to nod, but then her eyes popped open and her mouth dropped. "But Daddy says Uncle Mark isn't really a man...prolly 'cause he's not a dad."

Hayden pinched the bridge of her nose hard. "Lily," she said with a loud sigh. "Your father is a total idiot. Please stop listening to anything he has to say. Uncle Mark is a man. A very good man. And he loves you and he's waiting to take you to get a kitten. So, if you have questions that you need a man to answer, you ask Uncle Mark and not your ding-dong father, all right?"

Lily looked confused but nodded.

Hayden couldn't help but blame Tag for making her skid off the high road and crash head-first into the gutter.

#  CHAPTER 8

A hot bath didn't do much to help Hayden relax. Neither did the glass of wine. She would have gone for a second glass, but Lily didn't need two boozed-up parents. Wrapping herself in a towel, she left the near suffocating heat of the bathroom. Funny how something starts out enjoyable then quickly tries to choke the life out of you.

Hayden searched her suitcase for something nice, in case Cam came up. But not so nice that she looked like she was trying to impress him. She needed something—she dropped the pair of jeans she was holding, her face twisted into a frown. It was Cam. He was her friend. Nothing more.

She pulled out her usual evening wear—a tee shirt and a pair of yoga pants. Bending over, she brushed out her long brown hair. Her hair was on the thin side, so when it was damp, she couldn't brush it straight down or it would look lifeless and greasy. Brushed upside down, it kept some of its body. And the extra body made it look better in a ponytail. More sloppy chic and less haggard mom, or so she hoped.

The doorbell rang.

Hayden jumped. Cam. She checked her hair again in the mirror—not that it mattered. He was Cam. Her friend. Just her friend.

Besides, he'd dated some of the most beautiful women. Mark and his insane theories were screwing with her head.

Hayden thought of the women Cam had dated. She couldn't remember an exact face or even a name, because he never dated any one woman for very long. She used to joke that he was a serial dater. He'd say he hadn't found what he was looking for. She never took that comment seriously, but what if he was being truthful? Could he not find the right one because she was the one?

Hayden's cheeks burned. How silly could she be—thinking she was anything more than a friend? It was preposterous. Cam could have any woman he wanted. The Vorellis were tramps. Cam was simply smart enough and thoughtful enough to avoid marriage.

She let out a long breath. Mark was in insane—encouraging her to be ridiculous.

The bell rang again prompting her to run barefoot to the living room, suddenly worried he'd think no one was home and leave.

She swung the door open and there he was looking handsome as ever in a tee shirt and jeans. "Hey," he said in greeting. "I brought the doll."

When he leaned in to hand her Dolly, she could smell his fresh scent—soap and citrus. She hugged the doll to her chest and invited him in with a wave of her free arm. Her heart sank when he seemed to hesitate at her invitation. Maybe Shelley was waiting for him in the car? Or he was in a hurry to get home to her? It was Friday. They probably had a date tonight.

A rush of relief went through her when he stepped across the threshold.

She closed the door behind him. "Would you like a drink? Tea, coffee, beer?"

"A glass of tea sounds good. Is it sweetened?"

"Of course."

"Good. Shelley has gone sugar-free on everything."

Hayden nodded, but said nothing. Her mouth was suddenly dry, most likely from all of the guilt she was swallowing. Mark was so far off. Cam had a gorgeous girlfriend. Her sudden obsession with him was crazy. Was it because she was single? Was she becoming one of _those girls—_ the kind who leaves one guy for another because she is too afraid to be alone?

Was that what was wrong with her? Her erratic thoughts made it difficult to breathe normally. She tried to hide it. She didn't want Cam to think she was so out of shape that walking to the kitchen for tea made her gasp for breath. The more she worried, the harder it was to breathe normally.

Her hands shook as she pulled the pitcher from the refrigerator. Taking a deep breath, she turned smacking Cam in the chest with the pitcher. "I'm sorry," she said. Her cheeks burned. Fortunately, it was a covered pitcher so nothing spilled.

"I shouldn't have snuck up on you."

"You didn't. I'm just... distracted."

Cam nodded. "Still worried about the papers?"

"The what?"

"Divorce papers? Weren't they delivered today?"

Nodding, she filled a tall glass with ice and tea then set it on the table in front of him. "I haven't given it much thought, honestly. I've been... it's been a busy day." She poured herself a cup of coffee gripping the mug with both hands to stop them from shaking.

"That's good."

She nodded. There was an awkward silence. Hayden blurted, "It was really nice of you to bring Dolly. Lily will be so happy."

"Speak of the little devil, it's awfully quiet. Is she here?"

Hayden shook her head. "She and Mark are picking up the kitten. So far, they've been to the toy store for Barbies. Now, they're at the theater watching a princess movie, and then the plan is to get ice cream and then the kitten." Hayden showed him a selfie of Mark and Lily outside the mall. "I get selfie updates every ten to fifteen minutes."

Cam smiled. "Sounds like a good night."

"Uncle Mark does nothing by halves. And he's on cloud nine. Lily got him a date with his dream girl down the hall."

"Mark dates women? I thought for sure—"

"He was gay?"

"Well, yeah. Tag said—"

"Tag is an idiot. I can't believe you'd ever listen to him."

Cam gave her a raised brow, as if he was pointing out that Hayden was the idiot who married the guy.

"I'm sorry if I sounded harsh," she said. "I'm freshly mad at him."

"What did he do now?"

"It's nothing new. I was talking to Lily tonight, and she was vomiting back all these misogynistic theories her father filled her head with. Women can't drive or make choices to name a few. It really ruined my evening."

Cam opened his mouth to speak, but Hayden interrupted him. "You know, I'm not mad that Tag says such idiotic things, or even that he says them to his gullible daughter... I mean, Tag is just being Tag. I'm mad because I'm the idiot. I married him. I had a kid with him."

"Would you change that? Go back in time and not have Lily?"

Hayden took that suck of breath moms need to dispel the sharp pain that comes with imagining her child suddenly gone. "No, I wouldn't give up Lily for anything. But I could have chosen her a better father."

"You know it doesn't work that way. Different guy—different kid."

Her daughter was her everything. She was the laughter, joy, and purpose for all she did and was doing. She gave Cam a smile. "Thanks, Cam. I needed that reminder. I suppose this whole situation has me on edge more than I think. It's like I'm in limbo... waiting for him to respond."

Cam took a long drink. "Tag is a wild card. I'd worry about you if you weren't worried."

"It's been quiet. Maybe everything will go perfectly. Maybe he's as ready to be free as I am. Maybe he'll sign them, return them to the courthouse, and we'll be divorced by Christmas."

Cam tipped his glass as in a toast. "Here's to perfect plans."

#  CHAPTER 9

Cam never believed in perfection. It was the lie of perfection that made his parents so angry. Throughout his life, he could work his ass off to do the best he could, but it was never good enough. So, when Hayden offered hopeful platitudes of the perfect divorce, he immediately imagined the worst-case scenario.

She and Tag would reconcile, have a pack of kids, and for the rest of his life, he'd have to smile and pretend he was happy as hell that Tag had everything he wanted. That's what he expected the universe to hand him if he dared to shoot for perfection. The clock ticked, echoing off the walls of the quiet apartment. He swallowed the rest of his tea in one long gulp, shoved the glass to the center of the table, and stood. "I should get going."

Hayden's eyes widened. "So soon? You just got here."

She hopped up from the table and stepped in his path. He took a suck of breath. She looked soft and tempting, her skin still pink from her bath and smelling of flowers and rain drops. What he wouldn't give to hold her, curl her body into his. Thoughts of kissing the tender skin along her neck, down her shoulder raced through his head confirming to his logical side that coming here was definitely a mistake.

"I have a... well, Shell's mom's birthday party is tomorrow. And since I was coming up here, she asked me to stop at Monroeville Mall and pick up a mixer or something."

Hayden tugged at the tendrils of hair that escaped her ponytail. "I understand. I uh, well, I'm glad you didn't make a special trip just for the doll. You've done so much for us already."

To Cam, Hayden sounded chirpy. That high-pitched fake happy tone that she thought fooled him into thinking nothing was wrong. "Are you, okay," he asked. "Have you heard from Tag?"

"I'm fine." Her smile was broad. "And no, not today."

"You sure you're okay?"

She shook her head. "Stop asking." Her eyes glistened. "I'm fine."

Cam looked down at her, studied her. She was definitely twitchy. Something had her nervous. "If there's something wrong—"

Her laugh was brittle. "I'm fine. Just fine. Great, actually."

He frowned.

Her smile broadened. "I swear. You can go. Be sure tell Shelly's mom happy birthday for me."

"Sure."

She walked him to the door. "Thanks again. For the doll. And the ride yesterday. And the pep talk. It means a lot."

"That's what friends are for."

Hayden nodded. Her eyes misted. She would probably cry as soon as he was out the door. "I'm lucky to have you, Cam. You're a great friend."

He cringed every time she called him her friend. But he was her friend. Always would be. If he kept thinking he could be anything more than that, he'd lose her completely. She obviously needed him, or someone right now.

He could do this.

He took a deep breath, which was a mistake. She was too close. Smelled too good. He needed to put some space between them and get himself together. In his haste to distance himself, he tripped over a throw rug.

"Don't kill yourself getting out of here." Hayden pressed a finger to the edge of her eye and gave him a sad smile.

"Do you need me to stay?."

She crossed her arms over her chest and looked at him. He dropped his gaze to the floor. Her bare toes were only inches from his tennis shoes. Cam couldn't help but think those toes were sexy too. Small with plumb colored nails. Little feet supported shapely ankles. He swallowed. His face felt like he'd been standing next to a fire. It wouldn't take a mind reader to figure out he was desperately uncomfortable here.

"Please, go. Stop feeling sorry for me."

"I don't feel sorry—I just—" What could he say? That he'd love to stay; he'd love to hold her. To finally be honest and tell her he loved her. "It's not pity. I've just got to go." He headed for the door.

Hayden touched his arm, and he turned to her, then wished he hadn't. She looked more vulnerable than whatever little fur ball Lily and Mark might find tonight.

Her hand looked fragile against his arm. "Be honest with me, Cam. Is my leaving Tag going to be a problem for us?"

"That's a ridiculous question. Why the hell would it be a problem?"

"It's just... you seem...in such a hurry to get out of here. Is it Shelley? If I'm single, can we not be friends?"

He sighed. She needed a friend. Someone she could lean on while she dealt with Tag. And he'd promised her he could be that. But now, being here, alone with her, he realized he couldn't be that friend. He couldn't share buckets of ice cream while she chatted about whatever new asshole would replace the old asshole, if she even went through with the divorce.

This was torture. He couldn't sleep a wink last night. His brain tortured him all night switching between thoughts of beating the hell out of Tag for hurting her to his body's need to touch her, hold her, kiss those lips.

And that wasn't at all what she needed in her life right now. Mark could be that friend. He took a deep breath and said with as much sensitivity as he could muster, "It's nothing personal. I want to support you, I really do. I just—"

"I understand. Tag's your family and it probably complicates things with Shelley."

"Fuck Tag. And Shelley has nothing to do with anything. Damn it, Hayden—"

He shut his mouth. What could he say? That he needed to leave before he said something that would end their friendship forever? If he told her he loved her and she went back to Tag, that would forever be between them.

She stepped closer to him. "Then what is it?"

"I can't do this."

"You can't be my friend?"

"Not right now."

"Then when?"

"When this mess is settled."

Hayden nodded. "I was wrong to involve you. I've put you in the most awkward situation. I knew it was a bad idea to call you, but I..." she took a deep breath. "I was scared. I was afraid if Tag came in and it was Mark packing me up, it would get ugly. I called you because, though he'll never admit it. Tag is scared to death of you." She squeezed his arm. "That was selfish of me."

He closed his eyes. "You're not selfish. I'm glad you called me. And I want you to keep calling me."

"But you said—"

"It's just tonight. It's being here with you looking like you do and—damn it, it's just too much for right now."

Her head cocked, and she studied him. She licked trembling lips, took a deep breath and asked, "Be honest with me, Cam."

She looked like she might throw up. He started to worry. What could she have to ask him that would make her so nervous? Was she going to tell him she and Tag were reconciling?

She licked her lips again. "Do you... do you love me?"

His heart pounded erratically making him feel like a caged animal waiting for slaughter.

Hayden came a step closer. "I need you to be honest with me. Please."

"What do you want from me, Hayden?" His words sounded harsher than he wanted. She flinched, and he felt like an ogre. "Damn it." He looked at the ceiling as if the answer to this mess was up there.

Her words were quiet, almost a whisper. "I want to know."

"No, you don't."

She grabbed his hand. Looking him in the eye, she said, "Yes, I do."

"What the hell?" Cam gripped her hand in his. "Where is this coming from? Like you don't have enough shit going on in your life right now, we've got to do this?"

The color washed from her face before turning blaze red. "I'm sorry. I'm embarrassing myself. I can't believe I asked that." She pulled her hand away and pressed it to her cheek. "You're right. I'm so sorry. Please, can we pretend I never brought this up? You're my friend. I can't lose you, especially not now."

Cam nodded. His brain screamed at him to stop being a chicken shit and tell her the truth.

"You should go," she mumbled the words as she fled to the kitchen.

He followed her. Leaning against the door frame, he watched her grab dishes and toss them into the sink. "You planning to break them or wash them?" he asked.

"I don't know. I'm just..." she went to the fridge and pulled out a Diet Pepsi. She twisted off the cap with a vengeance. "I'm such an idiot." She examined the lid. "Maybe I'm scared. I don't know. Mark said some things last night that had me thinking...you know about how things could have been...if I'd dated you instead Tag. Classic case of living in the past to avoid the future, I suppose." She pressed the bottle against her flushed cheek. "I'm rambling." She set the bottle on the counter. "It's not every day I make a total fool of myself."

"You haven't made a fool of yourself."

"Liar." She flashed him a fragile smile, her eyes watery. "But thanks for saying I didn't."

"Things are chaotic right now."

"I know." She bit her lip. "Really. You can go."

"I'm not leaving you like this."

The smile she tried to fool him with tugged at his heart. He wanted more than anything to pull her close and never let her go.

She took a shaky breath. "I swear, I'm fine."

Was she wanting him to be in love with her? "Hayden..."

She put her hand up as if that would stop him from talking. "Please Cam, don't. Can we pretend I never said anything? Please? I can't lose you." A tear slid down her cheek and she wiped it away. Her chin quivered, and she looked at the opposite wall.

He closed the distance between them and pulled her in, crushing her body against his. Brushing his cheek against hers. "Damn it, Hayden."

"Don't be mad at me."

Letting out a long breath, he said, "I'm not mad. It's just—"

"I know. We're friends. And I want nothing to change that." She wrapped her hand in the fabric of his shirt.

"Hell," he growled. What did he have to lose? He took a deep breath. "The answer to your earlier question is yes. I do love you. I've always loved you. Always." Pulling back just enough to see her face, he added, "And not as your friend. Is that what you wanted to know?"

Her breaths were shallow. She licked her lips and nodded.

"I have never wanted to just be your friend. But that's all you ever offer, so I deal with it."

"That's why you're avoiding me?"

Closing his eyes, he held her tighter. "I was trying to avoid complicating your life. I figured you have enough on your plate. But I come here and you're alone and suddenly I'm not sure I can play this game anymore."

Her hands twisted into the fabric of his shirt. "I can't lose you."

"You will not lose me."

"But you said you couldn't—"

"I'm saying I'm done pretending. You mean a lot to me."

She looked up at him.

Damn, she was beautiful. He swallowed the urge to kiss her.

"You're right. My life is very complicated right now and you're the last person I would ever want to hurt."

"You're not going to hurt me," he lied. He felt like she was gutting him. He told her he loved her and she said nothing. This was a fate worse than unrequited love—she knew how he felt, and it changed nothing. "But I really should go."

He let go of her, stepped around her, and headed for the door again.

"Don't leave," she said. "We need to talk about this."

He shook his head as turned to her. "Seriously Hayden, there's nothing to talk about."

"Yes, there is. You said you loved me. That's not something you say and walk away from."

"You do when you're forced to say it."

"Do you mean it?"

"Why the hell would I say it if I didn't mean it?"

Hayden shrugged. "Maybe you feel bad for me?"

"I don't tell women I love them out of pity. You always have been and always will be very special to me."

She closed the distance between them, stepping into him. He wrapped his arms around her as if by instinct.

"Good, because I love you, too. If you only knew how much I've missed you. Or how jealous I was—am of every woman you have traipsed in and out of your life over the years. I would tell myself it had nothing to do with me wanting you, but because none of those women were worthy of you. Now, I realize, it's because I was completely jealous. I don't want you with other women. I want you with me."

Cam couldn't believe what he was hearing. It was everything he wanted to hear, from the lips he wanted to hear them from. Maybe he was wrong. Maybe some things in life could be perfect.

#  CHAPTER 10

"I want a chance, Cam," Hayden said. "When all of this is sorted out..." She took a deep breath. He looked stunned, like she'd told him she wanted to sever an arm and replace it with a sword. Or something equally ridiculous. She couldn't think straight. She'd just admitted she loved him, without considering what it might do to him or their friendship. She considered nothing beyond the fact that he loved her and she loved him. Could it be that simple?

He stared down at her like he was studying her. His jaw twitched. He didn't seem happy about her revelation. Maybe he was disappointed in her. Her divorce wasn't final, and she was feeling like a complete idiot.

"I'm sorry. Can I take that back? It's too soon. I should have waited until everything is final." Hayden could hear her mother's voice in her ear, shaming her. But she didn't feel any shame. She loved Cam. Telling him the truth felt like the most natural, perfect thing in the world. "Oh my gosh, I should feel ashamed, but I don't. Is that crazy? Am I crazy? Are we crazy? I mean, this isn't the right time, but I feel like we have or could have—"

He pulled her closer, so close she could feel her own heartbeat echo against his chest. All thoughts, even the half-baked ones that kept falling from her mouth like poorly thrown pebbles, disappeared.

Cradling her face in his hands, he kissed her. It was a gentle kiss as if he was testing her. Or quieting her. She slid a hand up his arm around his neck to pull him closer. His response was immediate. Wrapping his hand in her hair, he held her lips to his. It was more perfect than she could ever have imagined. His lips were gentle, yet unyielding.

When he pulled away, he took a long, deep breath. "I've wanted to do that for a lifetime."

"Really?"

"Hell, yeah."

She pressed her cheek to his chest. "For a minute, I was afraid I'd just lost my best friend."

He wrapped her tight and kissed the top of her head. "You'll never lose me."

A soft sigh escaped her lips. She let her body lean into his. For the first time in her life, she felt like everything was right in her world. Nothing bad could happen. Nothing could hurt her. As long as she stayed right there.

Lifting her chin, he made her look at him. Once again, his eyes bore into hers as if he was still trying to figure her out. She supposed he wondered if she regretted kissing him. She took his hand from her chin and kissed it before pressing it to her cheek. He sighed and smiled.

"This could be complicated. I don't know how long it takes to get a divorce. And your family—"

"Stop."

Hayden covered her mouth with her hand. "I'm sorry. I'm being ridiculous. I don't want to scare you. Maybe you don't even want—"

Cam smiled. He held her head in his hands. "I want all of you."

"All?"

"I am so far ahead of you. I've been in love with you since I was a kid. Nothing will change that."

Standing on her tiptoes, she kissed him. "This feels so good. I love you."

Her words seemed to buckle any reservations he might have. This time, his kiss was relentless, uncontrolled. His hands moved down her neck. They felt firm and huge against her body securing her to him. She relished the feel of them as they moved over her shoulders to the curve of her hips. A soft moan escaped her lips as his lips left hers to trail kisses down her neck to the hollow of her throat.

She pulled away from him. Biting her lower lip, she looked up at him. Her face was flushed; her chest heaving with each breath.

"Hayden, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have..."

"Yes, you should." She stepped into him wrapping her arms around his waist. "I just wanted to look at you. Make sure it was for real."

* * *

Her body relaxed against his. He kissed the top of her head and wrapped his arms around her. Her hands trailed across his ribs to his back. Her touch was almost more than he could handle. He'd imagined being in this situation hundreds, no thousands of times. Lifting her off her feet, he held her against him. No matter how close he got to her, it didn't feel close enough.

Her hands slipped under his shirt. The feel of her hands on his bare flesh made him want to expose every inch of her, explore her from head to toe. His hips pressed against her pelvis as if his lower body had a mind of its own pushing her onto the table. Her legs wrapped around his legs, her body ground against his. It was almost more than he could handle.

He wanted her, but his brain taunted him. This was a bad idea. His heart and his body told him his brain needed to shut the hell up. His brain was the reason he kept losing. It's what made him the nice guy who always finished last. The simple fact was he wanted her, and he should take what he wanted. Especially when it was so deliciously offered. Shoving her shirt above her head, he ran his lips across the swell of her breasts. She held onto him and wrapped her hands in his hair and pressed him closer as she brushed her lips against his ear.

"Beautiful," he said, trailing kisses from her throat to her belly button. "So perfect."

"Tell me you love me."

Her words made his heart beat faster. Leaning above her, he studied her. He wanted to remember the curves of her face, the swell of her lips, and the flutter of her eyelashes. "Hayden Renee, I don't just _love_ you _._ I want you." He kissed her lips. "I need you." He kissed her forehead. "You are my everything."

She brushed a wayward hair off his forehead and whispered, "How did I get so lucky?"

He kissed the hollow of her throat. "Because there is no one else like you. I've asked myself a million times why you're so special—why couldn't I ever get over you? Why could I never fall in love with someone else? Someone I could have? But I could never do it. I could never find anyone to replace you, no matter how hard I tried."

"I don't want you to replace me."

"There is no replacing you. I know that better than anyone." Cam sighed and closed his eyes. He wasn't a reckless man. When he gambled, he held his cards close and never raised the stakes beyond what he had in his pockets. But here he was, raising the stakes as high as they could go before throwing his cards on the table. "I would give anything, do anything to be with you." He took a deep breath. "But not here. Not like this."

"The kitchen table isn't the most romantic of places. And now probably isn't the best time..."

He nodded. "You're right. Not until you have time to sort things out."

She leaned back on her elbows. "We agree. We need to stop."

He kissed a fading bruise on her arm. "For now. Hopefully..."

Shaking her head, she kissed him. "There's nothing you need to hope for. I'm not confused. I want you, Cam. I've never felt more certain about anything in my life."

He kissed her. Her body was warm and pliable. The feel of her was like a drug that made his heart pound and his body go hard. He slid his hands under her ass and pulled her body against his. Going slow was no longer an option. He wanted her, and she was his for the taking. This could be the turning point. She'd be committed to him, not her husband.

_Husband.... shit... screw him._

All Cam had to do was look at the bruises on her arms to remind him that Tag crossed the line and deserved no loyalty. Cam had warned him. If he ever hurt her, all bets would be off.

#  CHAPTER 11

He pulled away, dragging his lips from hers. "I can't believe I'm going to say this, but we can't do this." Cam let out a groan through gritted teeth. "This isn't right, Hayden. Not now. Not like this."

She leaned her forehead against his chest and sighed. "I know. You're right. This is wrong. I don't know what I was thinking. I'm sorry..."

He hugged her close. "Don't be sorry." He smoothed her tangled hair. "Trust me, I'm not at all sorry. I want this more than anything. But when it happens, I want it to be perfect. No regrets. No complications."

"I would never—"

"Trust me." He tipped her chin, so she had to look up at him. "It's better this way."

"You're right," she sighed. "I know you're right. It's just..." she picked at a loose thread on his shirt. "Very, very disappointing."

Cam smiled. "Good. I hope you're damned disappointed."

"Bitterly."

"Perfect." His phone buzzed. He ignored it. Then it buzzed again and again.

"Shouldn't you check that?" Hayden slid off the table. "Someone wants to talk to you real bad."

"I'm sure it's nothing important." He shoved his hand in his pocket and silenced the phone. He wrapped his arms around her and nuzzled his lips against her neck. Breathing in the scent of her, he began to doubt the wisdom of waiting.

She was here. They were alone. Why was he waiting?

Because he loved her, and he knew her. Once the passion cooled, she'd regret it. And he could never risk her feeling any shame for loving him.

His phone rang again. He reached in his pocket and powered it off.

"Are you sure you shouldn't check that?"

He shook his head and tried to kiss her, but she pulled her head away.

"What if it's an emergency?"

"It's not."

"You don't know that."

He nodded. "Fifty-two players have that number. Trust me. It rings all the time."

"That's sweet of you. To be available for them."

"Yeah, I'm sweet."

Hayden grinned. She touched his lips with her fingers. "I always wondered what it would be like to kiss you."

"Why didn't you?"

Hayden smiled. "You were in a whole different league than me."

He shook his head. "I wish I'd had the brass to ask you out years and years ago."

"I wish you had."

Hayden's phone chimed. She pulled it from her pocket. "I can't ignore mine. It's Mark. They're headed back. Do we want food?"

Cam sighed. "I hate to say this, but I should go."

"So soon? Mark is offering food."

"I'd love to stay, but I think it's best I go before Lily gets back."

"Yeah, I suppose." She chewed on the side of her cheek.

He wrapped an arm around her waist and pulled her close. "Listen." He tilted her chin until she had to look at him. She kept breaking eye contact with him, like she was suddenly suffering from doubt. He couldn't lose her to guilt. Not now. "There is nothing on this earth I want more than you."

He ran his thumb across her chin. He wanted her more than anything he'd ever wanted in the world.

She licked dry lips and asked, "So, you're not running out of here because... you have something... or are getting cold feet?"

He smiled. Wrapping his hand in her hair, he moved close, his voice a husky whisper, "Absolutely nothing about you makes any part of me cold."

His kiss made her lean into him, her arms wrapped tight around his waist.

Planting feathery kisses across her cheeks, he said, "I'm only leaving because your little girl chatters quite a lot. We don't need Lily telling Tag I was here too often. If he doesn't have a problem with the divorce now, he will if he thinks I'm involved."

"You're right. Tag has always been irrationally competitive where you're concerned. It borders on insanity."

"And I don't want to do anything that gives Tag an edge by making you feel guilty. He'll use every trick he's got to change your mind."

"I'm not changing my mind. I'm done. It's over."

"I know. But—"

"No buts. I mean what I say." She pulled him closer. "I wouldn't have... complicated things... if I didn't want to close one door and open another. Do you know what I'm saying?"

He nodded slowly. "I have to admit; it feels too good to be true."

"I agree. I'm not used to being this happy," she said. "And it's going to happen, right?"

"I'm not letting go. If that's what you're asking." He pulled her in for one last kiss. She walked with him to the elevator where she waved good-bye as the doors closed. He took a deep breath in the still of the descending car. He never felt more excited and terrified in his life.

* * *

Cam walked through his back door shortly before midnight. He tossed his keys on the counter and headed toward the shower. His mind and body were still wired. He wasn't sure if he'd be able to get to sleep, but he knew he had to try. If he phoned-in another shitty practice, Ward and the rest of the staff would start asking questions he couldn't answer.

Speaking of unanswered questions, he still hadn't returned the barrage of calls Shelley hit him with while he was with Hayden. The tingle of guilt over ignoring her made his neck feel tight. He wasn't ready to talk to her. Not yet. He needed to be honest with her, but he also needed discretion. Was she open-minded enough to allow him to break it off and keep Hayden a secret? He sighed. What woman would do that? She was going to be pissed. This might be a mess. "Shit," he said to the empty room.

"Bad night?"

Cam spun to the sound. There was Tag lounging on his couch in the darkened living room.

"You are one hard son of a bitch to hunt down," Tag said as he hoisted himself from the couch slowly, like he'd just finished a marathon and was exhausted. He walked toward the kitchen. Cam followed him.

"I've been looking for you everywhere," Tag said.

"What the hell are you doing here?"

Tag walked to the fridge and pulled out a couple of beers. He kicked the fridge door closed and smacked the bottle tops off the counter edge to open them. He handed one to Cam who dropped himself down on a chair.

Tag downed most of his beer in a single gulp. He was wearing a long sleeve flannel shirt with khaki shorts. Cam wondered if he was hiding his own scratches and bruises on his arms. Cam's instincts told him to confront Tag about manhandling Hayden, maybe see how well he enjoyed being batted around by someone bigger?

Cam cautioned himself to remain calm. Punching Tag in the face would definitely raise red flags. A deep breath helped Cam relax. "So, why are you here, and how the hell did you get in?"

"Your window wasn't locked."

"Isn't that breaking and entering?"

"Nah. It's a necessity when your bitch wife throws you out of your house."

"Hayden threw you out?" He thought about calling him a liar and asking him what kind of game he was playing. Instead, he faked surprise. "What the hell did you do?"

Tag shrugged, palms up. "Who says it was me?"

Cam laughed and took another swallow of beer.

"I should have known you'd take her side." Tag gave him a disgusted look. "She's always had you wrapped around her finger, like a puss."

Cam frowned. "I know you. And I know her. Are you seriously going to try to convince me none of this is your fault?"

Tag laughed. "Ah hell, what do I care? Yes, it's all my fault. I married a damned saint and I've been a shitty husband. I'm the bad guy. Everyone can hate me and pity her. Is that what you want to hear?"

"Save your piousness for the priest. I don't really give a shit what you do."

"You may be the only one. Seems my business is everyone else's business. I swear, I can't go to Sunday dinner without hearing what a shit I am. Poor Hayden," he mocked. "Jesus, that's all I hear anymore. She even has Chief Mitchell on my ass. He says if I go near her, not only will I lose my job; he'll put my ass in jail."

Cam leaned his arms across the table. "What the hell did you do?"

"What did I do?" Tag dropped himself into a chair at the kitchen table. "Why would you assume I've done something?"

Cam realized Tag was looking skinnier and more fatigued than he remembered. Tag was usually as energetic looking as he was handsome. For a guy of twenty-six, he was looking rough. He had worry lines etched into his forehead and his dark hair was looking oily and disheveled. A punch of guilt hit him as he looked at his cousin. He'd been making out with the man's wife. Professed his love. What if Tag did truly love her? Cam took another long swallow.

Tag interrupted his pinch of guilt with his confession. "I'll tell you what I did—I got married too damned young. To a bitch everyone thinks is perfect. Compared to her, everything I do is a shit show."

Cam tossed his empty bottle in the trash and grabbed two more from the fridge. He popped those open and took them to the table, sliding a bottle to his cousin.

"Thanks, man."

Cam ran a hand through his hair and sighed. "So, you need to stay here until things calm down, or what?"

"Yeah." Tag shifted in his seat. "The thing is, there may not be any calming down. Hayden wants a divorce. And I think she means it this time."

Cam prayed Tag didn't ask him to talk Hayden out of it. That could lead to an awkward conversation.

Tag pulled papers out of his back pocket. He'd wadded the thick stack into a large lump. He unfolded the pages, smoothing out the wrinkles as best he could. "I got these today. I showed them to Tom—of course, he said he's a prosecutor, not a divorce attorney—but he says if he was me, he'd sign on the dotted line and be done with it. Seems Hayden wants nothing—I keep the house, the car... everything—and she agrees to 50/50 custody with Lil. I have twenty-four hours left to sign the agreement or the terms will change and she'll rake my balls over the coals."

"Yep. Sounds like she's serious." Cam took a drink and tried not to look like the Steelers just won the Super Bowl.

"Oh, she's pissed all right. And so, here's the thing—rationally, I know a divorce is a smart move. I'm sick of her constant fucking nagging about every little thing. I'm tired of having to make excuses for everything I want to do. Hell, every time I do any goddam thing, they throw Hayden in my face. I get friendly with a waitress and everyone gets pissed at me."

"Be friendly? Is that a euphemism for screwing one?"

"Up against the squad car, behind the Steak and Brew." Tag put his hand out for a knuckle bump.

Cam ignored the gesture. "Marriage usually means you keep your dick in your pants."

Tag smacked the table and laughed. "Ain't that the mother fuckin' truth. Marriage is a total sex killer. You know when the last time was that I had sex with my wife?"

"No, and I don't want to know—"

"Two years. Two long, dry years."

"Maybe if you weren't screwing other women?"

Tag shrugged. "That's what she says. But that's bullshit. I should have known she was frigid. I pretty much had to marry her to get a piece of ass in the first place. And she has no sense of humor. I told her—" Tag interrupted his story for a hearty laugh. "I came home drunk one night and told her I'd already had pussy earlier that day, so she should let me put it in her ass just to mix things up a bit. She tried to throw me out of our bedroom. I told her she could go fuck herself, it was my house. Now, she sleeps in Lily's room." Tag scratched his head. "Seems she's getting the last laugh. Got the whole house now."

"Are you an idiot?"

"It was a joke."

"Jokes should be funny."

"Come on, don't tell me you're going to lecture me too? I should've known. You, of all people..."

"I suggest you sign the damn papers. You don't need to be married. Not to Hayden, not to anyone."

"Maybe you're right. Maybe a guy like me needs to be free. I don't need to be given shit from my boss and my family every time I want to be a man."

"Since when is screwing around part of being a man?"

"Listen to you, you two-faced son of a bitch. Mr. Flavor of the Month. Don't give me your high and mighty shit. You've seen more ass than a proctologist. You've been with Shelley what, a whole three weeks? That might be a personal record for you. Why aren't you the asshole?"

"I'm not married."

"You're right. That's the only difference between us. That's why it's okay for you to run through women like it's a marathon."

"So, get divorced. Seems like she's giving you an easy out." Cam tapped the papers on the table.

"I would." He scratched the top of his head. "It's just... it's too easy. Why isn't she wanting anything?"

"Maybe she's tired of it and just wants out."

Tag nodded slowly like the words made sense, but he still had reservations. He cleared his throat. "There's the family too. They love her. Shit, Grandma Tate told me if I ever divorced her, she'd cut me out of the will like she did your old man. Then I have to hear her go on and on about Vorellis being Dago tramps."

Cam imagined Great Grandma Tate's reaction. The Tate family had lived in Hazelton since before the Mason-Dixon line separated it from the south. They maintained a long-standing tradition of God, country, kin. To the Tate's, your good name was a thing to be proud of. The hard-drinking, meaner-than-a-Hatfield-or-McCoy Vorelli influence on the bloodline wasn't something any of the Tates or even the Andersons were happy about. Carol Tate Anderson Vorelli, the grandmother he never met, was instantly smitten with the dark-eyed, dark-haired Italian scoundrel. She was so lost to love, when Max Vorelli tired of the coal mine and the rural thrills of West Virginia, Carol left her kids with her parents and ran away with him. They were on their way to New York when they died in a car crash on the Jersey Turnpike. Grandma Tate raised the two kids, Cliff, Cam's dad, and Connie, Tag's mom.

Cliff had been a baby and only knew his parents through photos and stories. Connie was old enough to feel the sting of the abandonment. She was, by no rational estimation, stable. She suffered from wanderlust, never in one place for very long or in any relationship longer than a few months. Her marriage to Randall Matthews only lasted a year. He ended it after Connie got pregnant with Tag while he was serving aboard the USS John F Kennedy. Connie's craziness and Cliff's antics were a constant source of humiliation to the grandmother who raised them. None of the other five kids she raised gave her those problems.

"She must be pissed if she compared you to my dad."

Tag laughed. "She was pissed all right. I asked the old girl if she'd give Hayden a few tips on how to keep your man at home—that she must have been a bit of a wildcat to keep great grandpa Earl happily at home for fifty years."

Cam shook his head. "I swear to God; you're an idiot. I can't believe you said that."

"She threw her cane at me." Tag chuckled, head tipped back, eyes crinkled in the corner. "Shit. I meant to tell Uncle Cliff that story the other night. He'd see the humor. All this BS with Hayden, I forgot all about it."

"If it made Grandma Tate cringe, Dad would love it. Ungrateful jerk."

"Ungrateful? Hell, that old biddy just can't take a joke."

"Infidelity isn't a joke to her."

"Whatever." Tag sighed as if bored with the conversation. He got up and rummaged through the fridge. "You got any food in this place?" He left the fridge door hanging open and opened the freezer. "I'm starved. I had a burger at the bar, but the damn thing was still mooing and I couldn't eat it."

"There are protein bars in the cabinet."

"That's not food, Cam. Damn, no pizza? How can you maintain a bachelor pad without pizza?"

"Look in the meat drawer. There should be some turkey breast."

Finding the bag of meat, Tag carried it back to the table and started eating it slice by slice.

"So, what did you want from me, besides the couch and food? I mean there had to have been other, better places you could've stayed. You want me to talk to Grandma? Get her on board with the divorce?"

Tag took a swig from his beer then let out a long sigh. "She'll never agree and honestly, I don't give a damn anymore. No, what I'd like for you to do—and you'll probably not want to do it—is to be Hayden's little girlfriend again and find out who she's cheating on me with."

Cam choked on his own spit and had to take a drink to stifle the cough. "What makes you think—"

"Hayden has put up with my shit for years. What changed?"

"Maybe she's had enough?"

"Maybe, but I doubt it. She's gotten a whole hell of a lot sassier in the last few months. Somebody is encouraging her, making her feel like she's got some lady balls."

Cam sighed and rubbed his chin. It tempted him to tell his cousin it was him. He was the one. And they weren't cheating. Not technically. He loved her. And she loved him, so he needed to sign the damn divorce papers so they could all get on with their lives. _"_ Just let her go. So what if she's got someone?"

Tag spit turkey bits as he yelled, "What do you mean, so what?"

"Yeah, so what? You've spent the entire night bitching about being married. It's not like you want her. Let her go."

"Easy for you to say. She's mine. I married her. She's the mother of my kid. I get divorced and there's some other asshole in my kid's life. Some other man playing on my field."

Cam's throat went dry, so he took a drink. It almost hurt to say the words, but he felt obligated by a respect for vows to say, "Then quit cheating on her and work it out."

Tag gave him a wink. "That will never happen. Monogamy leads to insanity."

"Then sign the damned papers." Cam imagined reaching across the table and choking the shit out of him.

"I know it sounds crazy. It's like I'm sick of being married. I imagine being single and I love that idea. But then I think of her being single and it pisses me off. It's like I fumbled on the goal line in front of a crowded stadium." Tag rubbed his face and let out a growl. "I swear, sometimes I wish I'd never met her, or that she'd disappear."

Cam's spine stiffened and his nostrils flared. "What the hell does that mean?"

"Take a chill, Cam. I know you're her bitch. I'm not threatening her. She may drive me nuts, but I'd never hurt her."

"You wouldn't, would ya?"

Tag rubbed his hands. "All right. What did Hayden tell you?"

Cam ran a hand through his hair. "Nothing. I talked to Mark."

"That faggot? Shit, I shoulda known. What did he say?"

"That your fights are becoming physical."

Tag laughed, rocking the chair back on two legs. "Drama queens. Both of them. Hayden was screaming at me—bitch knows the neighbors call the police about everything—and I grabbed her. Maybe a bit too hard. She wouldn't shut up, so I covered her mouth with my hand and she bit me."

"She bit you?" Cam shook his head. "No one told me that."

"See?" Tag showed him the palm of his hand. It was bruised with a line of red, swollen wounds. She'd done some damage.

"Did you hit her?"

"No—fuck no. Is that what they're saying?"

Cam shook his head. Tag was so much like Cliff Vorelli, it was scary. They were both lying assholes who didn't care about anyone but themselves. No wonder they got along so well.

"You can quit staring at me, Cam. I didn't hurt her, and I don't plan to hurt her. If the stupid cow wants a divorce, she can have it. As long as she isn't screwing around and making me look like a fool."

"Sign the papers."

"Is that an or else?"

Cam took a deep breath. He was growing weary of the conversation and imagining how much simpler it would be to break his neck and make her a widow. "I'm thinking when she bit you, it didn't end there. But it's probably best we stop talking about that and you just sign the papers."

Tag grabbed a pen from the basket of mail Cam kept on his table. He looked Cam in the eye. "You swear to me she isn't taking it from some other guy?"

"I promise you. She's not screwing another guy."

"What about a woman? Do you think she's turned lesbo?"

"No," Cam practically yelled the word.

"Too bad. That would be the most exciting thing to happen in our marriage, ever."

"Sign the damn papers."

Tag chuckled as he signed the pages. Cam let out a relieved sigh and couldn't help but smile as Tag threw the pen on the table and polished off the fresh beer Cam set in front of him. "Cheers to living the single life," Tag said with a grin.

Cam clinked his bottle to his cousin's and let out a long sigh of relief. Cam was one step closer to having everything he wanted.

#  CHAPTER 12

Hayden bathed Lily in the egg-shaped tub that had more bells and whistles than she had patience to deal with. Barely listening to the child's account of her adventure with Uncle Mark, she offered a few oh my's and ah's so the child didn't realize her mother's thoughts were a million—no, sixty-eight miles away.

She knew in her gut it had to be Shelley calling Cam so incessantly. He didn't even glance at the phone. That might also be the reason for getting out of the apartment so fast. Hayden rested her chin on folded arms across the edge of the tub and tried not to feel totally and completely disgusted with herself. She'd practically attacked him. She probably scared the hell out of him. Or made him think she was the biggest tramp ever. What was wrong with her? Was she so desperate not to be alone that she would throw herself at a guy?

Not that Cam was just _a guy_. And it wasn't like she'd planned on doing what she did. It just felt right at the moment. The mental debate raged. Was kissing him a mistake? No doubt she enjoyed it, but did it make Cam think less of her? The timing could have been better, but being with Cam felt like the most natural thing in the world.

"Look Mommy, horns. You should have a pair." The little girl twisted her shampooed hair into lopsided spikes on each side of her head.

"Yeah, horns might be perfect for Mommy."

"Or a crown." Lily patted down the horns replacing them with tufts of hair in a circle—her crown.

"Why, that's so pretty," Hayden said. "I wonder why fashion models don't do that with their hair?"

"Prolly afraid of soap in their eyes." Lily shrugged her small, white shoulders.

"True. And it would dry crusty."

Lily patted her bubbly head. "Then it'd prolly stay like that forever."

Hayden gasped. "Forever? That's a seriously long time. I suppose we better rinse you before you dry out." Hayden turned on the faucet. The warm water refreshed the soapy smell of the pink bubbles. Hayden filled a cup with fresh water and tipped the little girl back and rinsed her hair.

"Hurry, Mommy. I don't want to be bubbly forever," the little girl laughed showing all her small, white teeth.

Thoughts of forever instantly equaled Cam in Hayden's mind. Her heart did a complicated flutter in her chest. It was hope, fear, and mortification all in one. She thought of calling him, but hadn't she already been the aggressor? She forced him to tell her he loved her. Then she practically molested him. What else was he going to say? No, he didn't love her—knowing full well she was in a vulnerable position. She tried to remember if his haste to leave started with the phone calls. It was probably Shelley calling. He probably hurried out to call her. Or worse, go see her. Hayden closed her eyes. "Oh God, he's probably with her right now."

"What did you say, Mommy?"

"I was, uh, praying."

"Cause it's time for bed?"

"Yeah, that's it."

"I'm gonna sleep with my kitty."

"Then let's get you finished up and out of the tub."

Rinsed clean, Hayden grabbed Lily a towel, wrapped her in its velvety terry fabric and lifted her out of the tub. Lily kept talking, not even pausing during the drying process or as she pulled her kitten covered nightgown over her head. Hayden tried to pay attention, but fear was winning over any elation she'd felt when he admitted he loved her. All she could imagine was Cam and Shelley together, and Cam regretting he ever drove to Pittsburgh.

"I'm gonna sleep with Ms. Bianca. But I'm putting her in a box beside my bed. Uncle Mark says I could squish her if I put her in my bed. I don't want to squish her, do I, Mommy?"

As she brushed out Lily's damp hair, Hayden caught bits and pieces of the conversation and tried to fake attention. "Yes, that would be nice."

"No, Mommy! Bad Mommy! It wouldn't be nice to squish Ms. Bianca."

"Of course not. That would be awful." Hayden rubbed the back of her neck. "That's not what I meant. I meant whatever you plan to do to not squish her is nice."

"Oh, good." Lily's eyes were round. "Cause you scared me. Where can I get the box?"

"What box?"

Lily turned threw her arms out in exasperation. "Are you listening?"

"I was half listening?" Hayden offered.

Lily shook her head and pursed her lips. "I don't know what to do with you. I guess I'm gonna hafta talk to Uncle Mark. He listens to me."

"The box?" Hayden asked herself aloud. "A box! For the kitten."

"Uh, yeah."

"See, I was listening. But yeah, we'll have to ask Uncle Mark."

While Hayden tidied up the bathroom, Lily ran to get her kitten and her uncle. As Hayden hung the towel over the bar, the pair emerged with the mewing kitten and a basket from the laundry room. Mark grabbed a few towels from the cupboard and a roll of toilet paper. He lined the basket with the towels and then unraveled the roll of tissue ripping it into hundreds of pieces to make the kitten a nest. "There," he said, looking over his handy work. "Ms. Bianca should be snuggly in there and sleep all night."

Hayden took Lily to her "room" in the walk-in closet and tucked her into her princess bed before setting the drowsy kitten beside her. Lily must have been equally exhausted. She was asleep by page two of her night-night story. Hayden kissed her cheek and backed quietly out of the closet. It was the biggest closet Hayden had ever seen—they had smaller bedrooms in their house.

Mark switched the television to mute as she walked into the room. She plopped down next to him and groaned.

"Why the groan, sweet pea? Here I was assuming Stella got her groove back."

"I've never seen that movie, but I'll assume you're insinuating something happened with Cam."

"You going to deny it? Before you answer, you have beard-stubble burn on your neck."

"Oh!" She covered her neck with her hands. Her cheeks were red hot. "How in the world did you ever notice that?"

"I see everything." He gave her a wink.

"I'm so embarrassed."

"Why? I'd think you'd be grinning from one ear to another."

"Nothing happened."

"Nothing?"

"Nothing much. We kissed. Then Cam pointed out it was too soon."

"Wise man. No sense making you feel guilty and sorry for your lame-ass soon to be ex."

"That's what he said." Hayden rolled her lip between her thumb and forefinger.

"You don't seem convinced."

She shrugged. "His phone started ringing, and he said he had to go."

"A ha." Mark leaned back on the couch. "And you're thinking it was Shelley?"

"How could I not?" Hayden pulled the couch blanket over her head. "I made a fool of myself."

Mark pulled the blanket off her head. "Did he admit he loved you?"

Hayden nodded.

"Then even if it was Shelley, and even if he scooted on out of here to see her—I can assure you it's to break things off face-to-face like a man."

"You think we can make it work?"

Mark nodded. "As long as you don't back down from the divorce."

"That will never happen."

Mark eyed her so hard, Hayden felt insulted. "You don't believe me?"

"I believe you believe it, but Tag is like a virus—no matter how many times you wash your hands of him, he's infectious."

"No more. Tag crossed the line. I've forgiven the cheating time and time again. I've helped bail us out of debt. I've taken the blame that I'm the bitch who causes all the fights. I have tried to make it work because I made a vow. But I can't do it anymore. I will not live like that."

"And you shouldn't. Hell, you should've left years ago."

"I never wanted Lily to come from a broken home."

"I don't know why women think a shitty home is better than a home without Daddy in it. Hell, I never knew my dad and look at how great I turned out."

Hayden giggled and gave his leg a shove. "You're the gayest straight man I've ever met."

"The lady in the elevator thought Cam, and I were brothers... wanna call me gay now?"

Hayden gave him a long look then leaned forward and tousled his slick-backed hair into a more casual style. "Oh my gosh, you do look alike." Hayden's eyes widened. "You know Cam's dad is a total man-whore. Could your mom have been dumb enough to... you know... with Cliff?"

"I don't know. The old girl was never famous for her good decisions. The next time I'm home, I must ask her."

"Your poor mother."

"Why poor mother? I have a right to know."

"Of course you do, but how many men have you asked her about over the years?"

"It's our Father's Day tradition," he laughed. "I don't know why she just doesn't give me a list of possible suspects. It's not like she ever travels. It has to be someone from Hazelton."

"I think it stands to reason that she's trying to protect you. Which makes me wonder if it isn't Cliff. He's a horrible person and an awful father. He always called Cam a girly-man; imagine what he'd have said to you."

"You calling me a girly-man?" Mark used dramatic flair in pushing his hair back in place.

Hayden laughed and settled herself in on the couch tucking the blanket around her.

"You tired, darlin'? Your little racing heart wearing you out?"

Hayden closed her eyes and smiled.

Mark patted her on the leg. "I'm glad for you. That boy loves you. With Tag, when you left a room, he'd be working it while you were gone. With Cam, you leave a room and he's watching the door, waiting for you to come back."

"You really think?"

"Honey, I know. Cam and Hayden... that's a pairing I've had my eye on longer than I've loved boat shoes with khakis. They're just perfect together."

"I'm getting a little nervous. What if he changes his mind? What if being a slut is a Vorelli thing? Cliff, Tag... hell, even Connie can't stay in a relationship for more than a few months. What if he's just thinking with his nether regions? Maybe it's just a sex thing?"

"Aren't you full of yourself?" Mark laughed. "Honey, he's dating Shelley Ward. The gal is built like a brick shitter and not at all hard on the eyes."

"Thanks for the reminder, asshole." Hayden threw a throw pillow at him. "So, what do I have to offer?"

"Well, you're also built. But like a cute little pocket doll—you know, tiny enough to scoop up and carry around in your pocket? And you're pretty in that girl next door, I bet-any-mother-would-love-you kind of way. And you're Hayden—the sweetest, most wonderful gal on the planet."

"But I also come with major complications. Any man in his right mind would run."

Before Mark could answer, the landline that hung on the wall in the kitchen rang. The sound made them both jump. Mark turned to the ringing phone and laughed. "Holy shit, I forgot that was even there. Who in the devil..?"

He jumped up to answer. "Hello, Mrs. Green. Yes, she's here. Just a sec."

Hayden followed him to the kitchen and gave him a head shake. He shrugged and shoved the phone at her. With a deep breath, Hayden took the phone. "Hello, Mom."

"I've been calling you over and over. What is going on? Tag has been here three times today trying to find you."

"I left."

"What do you mean, _you left_?"

"It's over. I filed for divorce."

"You did what?" Her mother's voice hit such a high pitch, she had to move the phone from her ear.

"I filed for divorce."

"Without even talking to your dad and me?"

"I didn't think you'd support me. Last time I left, you guys told me I had to work it out. Well, I tried that. Nothing changed for the better. If anything, things are worse."

"Worse how?"

"He's never stopped cheating. His drinking is more frequent, and when we fight, it gets physical."

"Does he punch you?"

"Punch me? No, but he—"

"Hayden, I'm sorry, but you sound like a spoiled brat who's watched too much Oprah. Fights and working through the hard times is part of your commitment."

"I have bruises where he grabs my arms, and he threw me—"

"That's just called marriage. Tempers fly."

"It's not normal. It's insane. Dad never—"

"How would you know what your dad did or didn't do? You were just a baby, like Lily, when we worked out our issues. The brutal truth is that marriage is hard. You have to work on it, not run away. Have you even talked to Tag today? He says you turned off your phone, which I'm guessing is true because you haven't answered and of my calls and I've tried all day. I finally had to call Mark's mother and get his number."

Hayden bit her lower lip. "No, I haven't talked to him since I left. There's really nothing left to be said."

"Of course not. You're a coward, running from the hard stuff. If life isn't a bowl of cherries, little Hayden is ready to dump it and grab something else from the menu."

"I tried really hard. Saying I didn't is hardly fair."

"Fair or not, is it true? Who took you to Mark's? Cam?"

Hayden's cheeks burned. There was no way in hell she was answering that question.

"Cameron Vorelli isn't your husband. You've been negative about your marriage ever since he came back to town. Don't think I haven't noticed."

"Cam has nothing to do with the fact that Tag is a cheat... and that he puts bruises on me. Am I supposed to put up with that?"

"No. You call your father and he'll have a talk with Tag."

Hayden rolled her eyes. She could imagine her aging father going toe to toe with Tag. Supposedly, in his day, her father could hold his own in a fight, but he was few decades and several pounds past his fighting prime.

"This is insane. I can't believe you're telling me to put up with this. You realize Tag cheated on me a week before our wedding. How am I the bad guy?"

"I'm not saying Tag is perfect; I'm saying you have an obligation to make your marriage work."

"I tried."

"No, you didn't. Not really. You walked out on Tag, emotionally, soon after Lily was born."

"Because I can't count on him. I'm miserable. Why can't you support me? Shouldn't you want me to be happy?"

"Can you swear to me that Cameron Vorelli isn't involved? Promise me you're not leaving your husband, abandoning your family, for another man?"

Hayden bit her lip.

Her mother sighed. "You can't. Listen to me Hayden—marriage is hard. The fun part...the excitement and the passion...that only lasts a short while. Then a new, or in your case, Cam, comes along and your heart races and you feel like a new something will solve every problem. But it's a lie. That too will fade in time. You only have one choice—honor your commitment. You made a vow before God; there is no wiggling out of that."

"Doesn't adultery get me out?"

"Maybe. If Tag was the only one guilty. But you've been cheating on Tag your entire marriage by allowing Cameron into your heart. I told your sister on your wedding night, after watching you two dance, that he was going to be a problem. Luckily, he left."

"And we still couldn't make it work. Cam is not the problem here."

"If you think that, you're a bigger fool than I thought. Now, call your husband. Stop acting like some sheltered brat. Tag is trying. He even told me that he moved out of the house so you could come back home. He wants Lily to be in her own house. He doesn't sound like such a monster to me."

Hayden's eyes burned and no matter how hard she tried to be strong, she couldn't stop the tears. She offered an unintelligible good-bye and hung up the phone.

"What did she say?" Mark asked as she tried to run past him. He grabbed her by the shoulders and held her there.

"The usual."

"That you should take him back?"

Hayden nodded. She wiped at the tears and tried to calm herself. "I don't want to talk about it. I'm too tired."

"Your mother is a dumb bitch, no offense."

She laughed and wipe at the tears on her cheeks. He gave her a bear hug, holding her until she stopped crying.

"You've got to stay strong, Hay bale."

"I'm trying, Mark." She pressed her cheek to his chest. "I swear; I'm really trying."

#  CHAPTER 13

The next morning, Cam woke early. He showered, attended practice with an engaged brain, and when it was over, he went through a drive-through to pick up lunch for him and his visitor. He wasn't inclined to help Tag save his marriage, but he was willing to keep him from starving to death, for old-time's sake.

Juggling the paper bags and his bag of sweaty gym clothes, he opened the front door. His apartment was a basic one bedroom with a kitchen, living room combo. Essentially, he had a three-room place: bed, bath, living area. From the front door, Tag's sleeping body was on full view. He was sprawled out on the sectional that separated the dining area from the living room. A pillow covered his face, and an arm hung limp grazing the hardwood floor. Beer bottles and an empty pizza box cluttered the coffee table.

Cam was about to yell and wake him up, but a phone rang. Cam only needed to take three strides into the room to see Tag's phone laying on the floor. The screen lit up with a picture of Hayden with horns and a forked tongue. Cam's heart stopped. Hayden had told him she'd turned off that number. Yet here it was, ringing on his floor.

Tag groaned and reached for the phone pulling it under the pillow to his ear. "What?" His voice was hoarse, harsh. A second later, Tag was up, rubbing his head. "No, no. I'm not mad. I was asleep." He swung his legs to the floor. "Yeah, I was trying to find you," he said.

Cam cracked his knuckles. Tension made his neck tight. If he didn't know better, he'd think his cousin cared for her. He didn't want to admit it, even to himself, but it worried him. His cousin was the master of the smoke screen. Would Hayden realize Tag was only pretending to give a shit?

Picking up one bottle after another, Tag checked each one until he found one with a swallow left. He downed it. "I figured you were at Mark's, but his bitch mother wouldn't give me his number."

Cam made his way to the fridge, somewhat relaxed by Tag's belligerent tone. He didn't want to look like he was eaves-dropping, but didn't want to go so far he couldn't hear. He grabbed a beer, opened it, and took it to Tag.

"Thanks, man," Tag said mouthed. "Fine. I'm sorry I called the woman a bitch. I suppose the bigger question is why did I need to call her in the first place? Why weren't you answering your phone?"

Tag moved the phone from his ear and hit the speaker button.

Cam thought that was an odd move until he realized Tag was using the location service. Cam shook his head and watched as the icon spun until it locked in. She was at a park, miles from Mark's apartment. Cam smiled. She was a smart girl.

"I didn't want to fight," Hayden said.

"So, you just shut off your phone? Real mature."

There was a pause. Then Hayden took a deep breath. "I don't want to fight about this. I just want out."

Tag frowned. "You want out, huh?"

"Come on, Tag. You have to feel the same. We're not working."

"What about Lily?"

"I'm doing this for her."

Tag stood. From the looks of his posture, Hayden hit a nerve. "Running away and hiding from me—that's what's best for Lily?"

"I just wanted to make sure you'd be reasonable. After the other night—"

Tag took a deep breath and returned to his seat. "I'm sorry about that. I lost my temper." He looked briefly toward Cam. "I shouldn't have yelled at you."

"Yelled. Yeah, sure," she said. "You _really_ shouldn't have yelled."

"I am sorry. I swear, I'll make it up to you."

"If you want to make things right between us, sign the papers and take them to the courthouse."

"It's that easy for you? Just sign a few pages and it's all over?"

"Yeah. It's that easy."

"You don't even want to try to work things out?"

"Nope." There was barely a second pause before Hayden said, "I'm letting you off the hook easy, Tag. Push me and I swear to all that's holy, I'll file abuse chargers and you'll lose everything."

Cam took a deep breath. Every muscle in his body was tense. It surprised him Tag kept the conversation on speaker. He had to know Cam would kill him if he ever hurt her.

"I am sorry about that. I'd never hurt you on purpose."

"You crossed a line. There's no going back for us. Let's do this like adults... for Lily."

"Yeah." Tag stared at the floor. "Just answer me one question, honestly—you got someone else?"

Hayden paused. Cam wanted to scream at her to answer the damn question. The long pause made her sound guilty as hell.

"My mom already accused me of that," she said, still not denying it. Cam was breaking out in a sweat.

"Well, is there?" Tag repeated the question.

"No. I didn't leave because of another guy. I just want to be happy. We're not happy, Tag. Neither one of us want to be in this marriage."

Tag wiped at his eyes. Cam felt a twinge of sympathy, but logic and self-interest told him Tag would get over this just fine and be better off in the long run to be single.

"Fine. They're signed. I'll drop them off when I go to work." Tag set his beer on the table. "Can I talk to Lily?"

"She's with Mark getting ice cream. I'll have her call you later."

"Will you bring her home?"

"I...don't think that would be a good idea."

"I'm giving you what you want. I moved out. I'm staying here at Cam's sleeping on his damned couch, so my little girl can be in her own house. She could use the stability."

"That's actually... reasonable."

Tag grinned. "Don't sound so damned shocked."

"I'm trying not to be." Hayden laughed. Cam's gut did a flip-flop.

"Give me an address. I'll come get you guys."

"That's unnecessary," Hayden blurted. "Mark is coming down tomorrow to see his mom. We'll come with him then. Maybe you could take tonight to get your stuff out? Or at least what you need until we work it out long term. Eventually, I'll get a place—"

"I said you could can keep the house."

"Your mom gave you the house. It's yours."

"And I want my daughter to have a home."

"She'll have a—" Hayden took a breath. "I'm sorry. You're being considerate and I'm being a bitch about it. Let's just agree to take this one step at a time. You drop off the papers; I'll bring Lily home."

"Good. Thank you."

"Tag," her voice cracked. She was obviously nervous, scared, or a combination of both. "I don't want you there. At the house. Not while I'm there."

"Jesus Hayden, you act like—"

"It's not negotiable."

"Am I allowed to be alone with Lily?"

"Of course."

"So tomorrow, I can take her out for ice cream, or is that exclusive to the fa—Mark?"

"I'm sure she'd love to spend time with you."

"It'll give you some time to spend with whoever it is you're screwing because we both know it hasn't been me."

The line went dead.

Tag hung up the phone and turned to Cam. "Oh, she's screwing someone for sure. You hear that? I could hear sweating over the phone. Bitch lies for shit."

"I got you lunch," Cam said, hoping Tag would forget about the pauses and the evasion.

"I swear to God; I find out she's cheating on me, I'll—"

"You'll do what?" Cam turned on him. Anger made the blood vessels in his throat bulge. "And watch what the hell you threaten because I don't give a damn if she's turning tricks at the Blue Fox every Friday, I will snap you in goddamned half if you ever lay a hand on her. Do you understand me?"

"Jesus Cam, calm down. You'll have a stroke." Tag sauntered past him to root through the bag of food on the table. "I get bottom-of-the bag fries."

"Whatever. Eat them all. I'm not hungry."

"You really need to lighten up."

"Yeah, sure. That's the problem." Cam grabbed two ibuprofen from the cupboard. "You say stupid shit like that and I'm the problem."

Tag took his food to the couch and flipped on the TV. "I'm just sayin', she makes it out like it's all on me, but she's gettin' it somewhere. Maybe Mark isn't a faggot..."

"You're going off the edge." Cam gave him a look and a headshake. "I need to get out of here."

"You pissed?"

"No. I need to go to Shelley's."

* * *

Cam balanced the mixer he'd picked up for Shelley on his hip and knocked on the front door of the split-level house. She didn't answer. He turned to leave but saw a shadow pass by her kitchen window. Someone was there. He knocked again. Still no answer. She was probably wearing earbuds. He turned the knob, and the door swung open. Listening from the lower level foyer, he could hear the television, smell bacon cooking. It wasn't like Shelley to cook, but then who ever heard of burglars who break in to houses to cook meals?

Four steps up, he was eye level with the main floor. As usual, there were clothes and shoes scattered all over the place. Shelley saw time as tragically limited and cleaning wasn't ever at the top of her to-do list. She preferred fun.

As if on cue, she laughed. Her laugh was distinctive—part guffaw, part snort. He frowned. Initially, he'd planned on breaking it off today, but as the moment drew closer, he was losing his nerve. Today was her mother's birthday, and she was obviously in a great mood. He could wait until tomorrow. He'd drop off the mixer and bow out of the party. Maybe claim a headache—no, he'd tell her he had the flu, so he could justifiably keep a wide distance from her.

That was a decent plan. He climbed the last few steps, hurried through the living room to the kitchen. "Hey Shell, I got your mixer..." His words died on his lips as the scene before him fully registered in his brain. There was Shelley and some dude with enough hair on his back to pass as a gorilla making bacon—stark-assed naked.

"Shell?" he asked again.

Shelley squealed and grabbed a hand towel from the counter to cover her body. Hairy man turned with her, but he didn't bother trying to hide his full naked glory. Cam had to give the guy nods for having some enormous kahunas to even attempt bacon cooking in the buff. Then there were his literal kahunas, which Cam wished he'd never seen. Cam turned and headed toward the door. On his mad descent to the exit, he couldn't help but think the guy was surprisingly chubby, built a bit like a young Coach Ward.

"Cam!" Shelley caught him on the steps. "I thought I texted you and told you I'd come to your place after noon."

"I needed to get out of the house and thought I'd save you the trip."

"Oh... uh, thank you?" Shelley looked from him to Hairy Man's direction and bit her cheek. "This isn't what you think."

Cam had to laugh. That was the worst save ever. She should talk to Tag about making plausible excuses on the fly. "Then what the hell is it? There aren't too many explanations—new cooking show?"

"I just... it's just... we're friends."

"Friends? Okay. Well, I'll let you guys get back to it. I hope you were safer in the bedroom than you are in the kitchen. Cooking bacon naked is one bold move."

"Jokes? You're making jokes?"

Cam shrugged. "What do you want me to say?"

"Be pissed? Maybe call me a slut... something."

He shook his head. "Shelly, I... look, why don't we talk about this later? After you've had your breakfast, got dressed."

He handed her the box with the mixer. She hugged it to her naked body as she settled herself on the carpeted step.

Cam went two steps down before he remembered to add, "By the way, I think I'll skip the party."

"Oh, no! Don't do that. Couldn't you just get mad and punch Gary or something?"

Gary appeared at the top of the steps. He'd covered his nudity with a hot pink apron that said _world's okayest cook_. "Hey babe, let's not get hasty."

Cam looked up at him.

Gary backed away. "You two probably need to talk, so I'll just go."

It only took Gary seconds to disappear. His footsteps hurried down the hall. The bedroom door closed. Then the lock clicked.

"I'll get dressed and we'll talk," Shelley said.

"There's nothing to talk about."

"One mistake and it's over? I didn't mean for it to happen."

"You don't need to explain."

"Yes, I do. You have to understand—Gary is just an old friend. He messaged me on Facebook a few days ago and we had dinner and a few drinks and—"

Cam thought of Hayden. How could he bust Shelley's ass over this when he was no better? "Don't worry about it. I'm not mad."

"Really?" She gave him a sideways stare.

"Really."

"You forgive me?"

"I forgive you."

"So, we're good?"

"Well, there is no more we. But as friends, we're good."

She stared at him a moment, then her shoulders sagged. "I must admit. That hurts a little. You catch me cheating on you and you're like, no biggie. Shit, get a little pissed. Please."

Cam sat beside her, took her hand in his and gave it a squeeze. "I can't be pissed when I'm guilty myself. The last two nights, I've been... I haven't exactly been faithful."

"Hayden?"

He nodded.

"She's married, Cam."

"She left him."

It was Shelley's turn to nod. "When we first went out, my friends were like, seriously, you know he's hung up on Hayden. I could see they were right and knew we'd never last—not in the long haul."

"With every woman I go out with, she is my issue."

Shelley nodded. "Gary is mine."

"Who's Gary?"

"Naked Bacon Man."

"So, are you two—"

"No. He's married."

Cam nodded.

She leaned her head against his shoulder. "He's also a Cowboys fan."

Cam cringed. "Dear God, what have you done?"

Shelley laughed. "He's the least likely guy I should fall for."

"But you can't help it."

Shelley nodded. "Daddy hates him."

"A married guy who is also a Cowboys fan? For once, I agree with your dad."

"He's going to leave his wife."

"For real?"

She nodded. "Soon."

"Why wait?"

"His daughter has a heart condition."

Cam shook his head.

"Seriously. He doesn't want to cause her stress."

Cam nodded. "So, to marry you, the daughter needs to..."

"She needs heart surgery."

"Holy shit, Shell."

Her eyes filled with tears. She bit her lip a second then said, "I know. I'm an idiot. And my daddy would kill me if he knew Gary was back in my life. I know it's a lot to ask, and you don't owe me anything, but could you please not say anything about Gary?"

"Your secret is safe with me."

"Thanks, Cam. You really are the best. I hope one day you can find a woman who can take your mind, or your heart off of Hayden. You deserve to be more than the neutered third wheel in her train wreck marriage."

"I think she's really leaving him."

"They always say that. Last time, Gary couldn't leave until his ailing mom died. Seems there's always something. Hopefully, Hayden doesn't play that game with you."

"I told her how I feel."

"And she said?"

"She says she loves me."

Shelley nodded. "I think she does. I can see it in how she looks at you. How she hates me," she chuckled. "I take it you two are keeping this on the down low until her divorce is final? And if not, I suggest you do because Grandaddy and Daddy are old school. They think you're a cheater and you'll not have a job."

Cam nodded. "Nothing will happen until she's divorced."

"Like a good little lukewarm Catholic?"

"Yeah, something like that. I also don't need Tag turning this into a personal thing if he knows about us."

She adjusted the box in her lap. "Losing his wife to you would definitely kill his ego."

"I do worry about his reaction." He debated saying too much. But as they sat there, he realized she was special. She was a friend he could trust. "He's getting physical. She says he's never hit her, but she has bruises."

"Do you believe her?"

He shrugged. "She tried to hide the bruises from me. I don't think she wanted me to know he was hitting her."

"It's a matter of pride. No one wants to be a victim."

Shelley was smart. He was glad he told her. "So, for her safety, I would like to keep this under wraps. Let her get her divorce with no complications."

"So, to the rest of the world, we can still be a thing?" She put _thing_ in air quotes.

"if you'd like. At least until you get things sorted out with Mr. Naked Bacon."

"By my best recollection football season and divorce proceedings take about the same amount of time. As long as no one makes the play-offs. That should be enough time to decide what I need to do about Gary."

#  CHAPTER 14

A horrible night's sleep did nothing to help Hayden's mood. She rose from bed feeling more tired than before she crawled between the Egyptian cotton sheets. Now, thanks to her mother's inability to keep a thought to herself, the entire town knew what was going on and they were all weighing in—her family, his family, friends, acquaintances—their business was everybody's business. Tag's mother, always the voice of insanity, was threatening to kick her ass in social media posts. Hayden wasn't overly worried for her physical safety. Connie rarely had enough money for gas to get from Florida to West Virginia. The worry was moreover having to return home today. She wouldn't be able to pick up a gallon of milk without hearing whispers. Was it a crime to be happy?

She checked in on Lily. She was still snoozing peacefully. Only Ms. Bianca stirred when she peeked in the door, but the kitten yawned and stretched, her white fur thinning near her belly to show pink skin. The smell of coffee came from the kitchen calling to Hayden like a zombie hunting down brains.

"Holy—Liz Taylor on a lily pad. You look like hell."

"I feel like hell." Her slippers made a scuffing sound on the tile floor. She poured herself a mug.

Mark frowned. "What in the hell did your mom say? You were so happy... basking in the new-love glow."

Tears stung her eyes. Hayden rubbed her nose and shook off the desire to cry. "They all know. Mom must have sent out a mass email. I think I'm trending on social media."

"You went online?"

"Just enough to know I hate my world."

Mark gave her a hug. Patting her head like she was a puppy or a child. "There, there, young Padawan. In the future, in a galaxy not so far away, you will live in a different world. A better world. A world where fights and mind games don't count as quality time."

"Be serious, Mark. They're all blaming Cam. Saying I'm leaving Tag because of him."

"Dumb shits." Mark let go of her and headed to the coffeemaker to pour himself another cup. Dressed in his usual black slacks and crisp white shirt, he looked sharp, elegant. Hayden was jealous. No matter how hard she tried, she never looked as crisp as Mark.

"I shouldn't have kissed him. Or told him how I feel."

"For God's sake, Hayden. Like they have a clue. They're just a bunch of bored biddies stirring trouble."

"A lot of them are my family. It hurts."

"As far as I'm concerned, anyone who thinks you should stay in this marriage isn't worth two shits, so forget about them."

Hayden chewed on her lower lip. Mark was so sure of everything. It was easy for him to say _so what_ to people's opinions. "That's easy for you to say. You live in a different world. You're surrounded by people who accept you as you are."

"Darlin," he said, pointing his mug at her as he leaned against the counter. "That didn't happen by accident. I live in a world of my own making. Do you not remember what high school was like for a guy like me? I was a movie-obsessed, questionably masculine, fat little bastard."

"You weren't that fat," she mumbled. Life wasn't always easy for Mark. He grew up with a single mom who was the sweetest human being, but she wasn't always the most responsible adult. Mark worked nights and weekends at the movie theater and scouted thrift shops for things he could fix and resell at a higher price to afford things like clothes and movies.

"I was a little dumpling, thank you. My point is, I purposely altered the course of my life. I didn't listen to people who told me who I was or what my limits were. And even more important, I only let those people who respect and care for me into my world. Except for my mother, no one gets the opportunity to treat me like shit twice. And Mother only gets a pass because she gave birth to me and obviously got the short end of the stick from my sperm donor."

Hayden nodded. "You're right. I know you're right."

"Listen Hay Bale, you know I love you. Probably more than any human on this earth. And because I love you, I want to see you happy. And not to sound like a goddamned yoga mat, but I want you to live your best life." He gave her cheek a pinch. "Smile. I miss that smile. Forget all the assholes giving you grief. They can get over themselves."

"And if they don't?"

"If they don't, they aren't meant to be part of your world."

"But it's my family."

Mark shrugged. "The alternative is to forget all about having a relationship with Cam. Forget that you love him or that he loves you. That is your other option. And trust me, that option will crush, and I mean absolutely crush Cam. Is that what you want?"

"Of course not."

"Well darlin', you opened this can of worms. Cam was happily moving forward in life, without you. You gave him hope. Go back to Tag now and you hurt Cam. That, my dear, is a bitch move to the umpteenth degree and it will piss me off. I love you, girl, you know I do, but I told you. I warned you—don't give Cam false hope. Time to pull up your big girl pants and decide who matters more to you, them or us."

Hayden couldn't ignore the prick of tears behind her eyes this time. She tried to take a deep breath and clear away the torment of emotions that hit her like a ten-foot wave. Tears rolled down her cheeks faster than she could wipe them away.

"Come on, don't cry."

"You don't understand."

"I do too. That's why I'm playing hardball. This is how they manipulate you. They guilt you and bully you."

"So, you're trying your hand at it?" Hayden asked.

"I want what's best for you. If it takes being mean, I'm gonna be mean. Enough is enough."

She nodded. She couldn't speak past the tears. It wasn't like Mark to be so harsh. She set her mug down on the table. Her hands were shaking so badly, she feared she'd drop it on the floor.

Mark grabbed her hands and pulled her in for a hug. "Listen." He kissed the top of her head. "This stuff with Cam. It's ancillary. You were leaving Tag before I ever even brought up the shit about Cam loving you."

"That's true," she whispered.

"And he does love you. The real kind of love. The kind of love you deserve." He squeezed her tighter. "Now, be honest, would you really hurt Cam? I can only imagine how happy he was the other night... knowing he might have a chance with you."

Hayden wiped away the tears and smiled. "No. I won't hurt him. Not ever."

"Then it will be okay. As long as you remember who and what is important in your life, the rest is just chatter."

Hayden nodded. "I better blow my nose. I'll get your pretty shirt all snotty."

"We don't want that," Mark laughed and handed her a kitchen towel.

She rolled her eyes at him and grabbed a paper napkin instead. She blew her nose and took a deep breath. "What do I say to my family when they tell me I made a vow?"

"Nothing. It's not their business."

Hayden grabbed another napkin and blotted her eyes.

"And for you," Mark gave her one of those very serious looks he reserves for wayward actors who failed to do their jobs and jeopardized his budget. "You must remember, your vows didn't cover tolerating adultery and abuse."

Hayden nodded. "I know. I know."

"I know you know it here." He tapped her forehead. "But I want you to know it here." He pressed his hand to her heart. "You know Hayden, it is okay to put yourself first, sometimes."

Fresh tears burned her eyes. "Thank you, Mark."

"I'm going to go check my shirt for boogers and then we'll head back into the lion's den."

* * *

The drive home was uneventful except for Ms. Bianca's vocal disdain for the cat carrier and Lily's insistence that the kitten be set free. Hayden rolled her eyes and snapped a "fine, whatever" at the child, but she had to admit the child was right. The shrill mew was grating on her nerves more than she'd realized. Once the kitten was nestled on Lily's lap, Ms. Bianca was all purrs.

"You don't have to do this," Mark said as they approached the _Welcome to Hazelton_ sign that had been crafted by the high school shop class and hand painted by the art teacher. Hayden read about it. Its ribbon cutting was headline news in the local paper.

"It'll be fine." She pinched her lip as they headed down Main Street. Everything was the same as she'd left it three days ago. Grocery store, gas station, the pizza shop/hair salon/craft store combo. The owner, a middle-aged widow, was either a small-town entrepreneur or suffered from ADD. Everything was still there. Main Street hadn't changed a bit. Only now, it had a foreign, almost hostile feel.

The Blue Fox was filling up. The post-afternoon, pre-night shift crowd. Hayden scanned the gravel parking lot for Tag's car. It wasn't there, but that didn't mean he wasn't there. He didn't need a car to walk there from Cam's apartment. Cam's place was only one street to the east of Main Street.

Mark flipped the blinker at the last road leading off Main Street. Down a narrow, tree-lined road that opened up to a quiet cul-de-sac was the white ranch she and Tag had called home. Cam's car was parked in the drive. Hayden took a suck of breath. She wanted to see him more than anything, but not here. Not in broad daylight when every wagging tongue in town thought they were cheaters.

He must have spotted Mark's car because he climbed out onto the gravel drive and waved at them. Hayden couldn't stop the smile that crept across her face. She missed him and was glad to see him. Gossips be damned. But as she reached for the door handle, her smile froze and her stomach dropped to her toes. The passenger door swung open and out stepped the always stunning Shelley Ward.

#  CHAPTER 15

Unlatching the straps of the car seat was a chore with shaking hands. Hayden jerked on the latch. "Every damned thing in my life has to be difficult," she mumbled to herself as she pushed the button so hard it squeezed all the blood from her thumbs. The damn snap wouldn't give. "What the hell?"

"That's a swear," Lily said with a giggle.

Hayden took a deep breath. Mark rubbed her shoulder. His touch was light, but firm enough to get her attention. She looked over her shoulder at him. "What?" she asked.

"Move. I'll take care of this; you go talk to Cam."

"No." Her nose had that familiar tingle that threatened tears. "He can go to hell."

"Mommy. Swear!"

"Stop it, Lily." Hayden's words were sharper than she'd planned. The little girl burst into tears. Hayden wished she could crawl into the SUV's back seat and cry too.

"Go. Talk to him. Find out what's going on."

"I know what's going on. He has a girlfriend." She wiped at Lily's eyes. The little girl looked as sad as the big-eyed kitten on the front of her sweatshirt. Hayden felt like an evil witch yelling at such a fragile human. "Don't cry, baby. Mommy's sorry. I'm just being so cranky."

Lily dried her eyes with the back of her hand. "I get two swear quarters?"

"I'll give you a whole dollar."

Lily grinned and kicked her feet. "I'm gonna buy 'nuther kitty."

Hayden gave Lily one more kiss. If the child asked for the crazy cat lady starter kit, she'd allow it. Anything to make up for the hell she was putting her child through. She smoothed Lily's baby fine hair. Tucking behind her ear what she couldn't get to stay in the ponytail holder. "I love you, sweets. I'm sorry I yelled at you."

"Mommy's being a bitch. Yeah, yeah we get it. That happens, Lil. When Mommy's go a really long time without... play dates." Mark draped an arm over the car door. The black paint a sharp contrast against his white shirt. "Get your ass over there and talk to Cam."

Lily's mouth formed and O.

"And yes, Miss Lil, I do have a pocket full of quarters for you," Mark said.

Lily's giggles rolled up from her belly and shook her shoulders as they passed to her lips.

While Lily climbed out of the seat Mark freed her from, Hayden whispered to Mark. "I knew he had a girlfriend." She took a deep breath. "I'm such an idiot. What did I think? That he'd run home and break it off? She's beautiful and uncomplicated. I'm—"

"What he wants," Mark said. "Now, go. Talk to him. I've got Lil."

"I don't want to talk to him."

"Hayden." It was Cam.

Hayden gasped and spun toward him. Her heart surged at the sight of him. Still dressed in gym clothes that accentuated every muscle in his chest and arms, Hayden felt like an idiot for ever thinking he'd want her. As a footnote to the thoughts in her crowded brain was the fear that he'd overheard any or all of what she'd been talking about.

"You need help?" Cam asked.

"Therapy maybe. Explain my shitty taste in men."

"Another..." Lily didn't finish the sentence. Mark dug into his pocket and placed a handful of quarters in her hand.

Cam touched Hayden's arm. She swatted him away.

Cam took a step closer, leaning so close to her she could smell him. Fresh sweat, soap, and sunshine. "Shelly is here to help."

"I don't need her help. I don't need anyone's help."

"I wanted to see you," he said. "Shelley offered to come with me to stall the rumors."

Hayden looked him in the eye. He seemed to be telling the truth. Or at least the truth as he believed it. Why would Shelley want to help her?

"Let's go inside where we can talk."

"Don't tell me what to do." Hayden took two steps away from the car and stopped. She had nowhere to go from there.

"Please, Hayden." Cam's jaw clenched in a hard line. She doubted he'd ever accept no for an answer and if she was honest with herself, she wanted him to make her believe.

Hayden crossed her arms over her chest and nodded. Cam grabbed the suitcase from the opened trunk and followed Hayden into the house. He set it in the hallway.

Hayden turned to him, her foot tapped on the laminate flooring. "What do you want to talk about? Did Mark and I surprise you? Break up your little party? Is having Tag at your house pushing you out of your grazing land and into my house?"

"No," Cam's jaw twitched. "Of course not."

"Then why are you here, with her?"

"Mark texted me and told me what time you guys were coming and asked me to run interference with Tag. He wanted you to at least be able to get out of the car without a hassle."

"And Shelley is here... why?"

"I told her how I feel about you and she wants to help."

Hayden didn't know how to respond. She'd bought a lot of lies over the years being married to Tag, but she never dreamed she'd be fed a line of tripe from Cam.

Hayden took a deep breath and forced a smile. "That was nice of her, but I only have the one bag. You guys can go."

She turned to go to her room, but he grabbed her by the arm and pulled her back. "Not to help carry. To stop the rumors. If you haven't noticed, everyone is going nuts."

Hayden's shoulders sagged. "I know. I've been reading it."

"I told Shell about us. I told her I love you and how I want us to be together once this is all over. Shelly supports that. She supports us."

"And coming here... she accomplishes what?"

"Like Shelley said, if people still think she and I are a couple, they won't suspect that you and I are together."

"Wow. That is really nice of her." Hayden's voice oozed sarcasm.

"If you want to go public with this—with you and me—I will. I'll do whatever you want. But I thought we agreed it was better for you to get the divorce and then—"

"It is. It is better to wait." Hayden's head was beginning to hurt. What Cam said made sense, but it didn't. What woman would hand Cam over to another woman without a fight? It was a lie. She just didn't know who was lying, Cam or Shelley.

"I love you, Hayden."

"I know. You keep saying that."

"You think I'm lying?"

Hayden shrugged.

The look on Cam's face made her heart hurt. She wasn't trying to hurt him. She rubbed the growing pain in her head. "I'm sorry, Cam. I don't mean to hurt you. It's just... I need to get my life in order. I have so much going on in my head, I can't even think straight."

"I'm sorry I let Shelley come."

Hayden shook her head. "It's not that. Not completely. Her being here is just a reminder that I need to get myself together. You say she's here to help. I'm inclined to believe you, but then logic tells me that's insane. Accepting insanity as normal got me where I am now."

"I'll get her. She'll tell you."

"No." She grabbed his arm. "I shouldn't be so suspicious. Her being here will throw people off. It sure worked on me."

"I'll take jealousy as a good thing?" His smile was charming. A bit hesitant, but full of hope.

She touched his cheek. The stubble was rough under her thumb. "Yes, I'm jealous. How could I not be? Shelly is—"

"Not you. I want you, Hayden." He closed the gap between them, pulling her into him.

His body was warm. Hard. She closed her eyes and let her body fold into his. "You say that now. But things will get more and more complicated. This truce with Tag... I don't know how long it will last. And then there's my family. And your family. If at the end of it all—"

"Not if, when."

"Okay, when." She cupped his face with her hands. "When this is over, I'll call you, and if—"

"Dammit," he growled. "It's no use trying to talk to you."

"I'm trying to be reason—"

He kissed her. It was the kind of kiss that made her dig her hands into his arms to stay on her feet. It was the kind of kiss that cancelled any doubts she had about how he felt.

When he pulled away, he didn't go far. She could feel his breath, ragged and warm against her cheek. She moistened her lips, smoothed out the fabric of his shirt where she held onto him, and said, "When this is over, I'll certainly be calling you."

"But this is good-bye? Is that what you're telling me?"

"I love you, Cam. I truly do. But I have to get off the roller coaster. I have to do this the right way. Today, when I saw Shelley here, it felt like there was a hole burning through my gut. I yelled at Lily, which she didn't deserve, so I agreed to let her get another cat, which is insane."

He kissed her forehead.

"I can't get through all of this and deal with a new relationship too. It's not fair to you or to Lily. I'm an emotional wreck." A sudden fear hit her. In asking for a time out, was she tossing the ball to Shelley? Handing over this perfect man? "But I don't want to lose you."

He pulled her close, pressing her cheek to his chest. "I love you, Hayden. That will not change. Take whatever time you need. I'll be waiting."

"I know it's the right way, the adult way to do this. But I'm afraid—I'm afraid I'll lose you."

"I've waited half a lifetime for you. I'm not going anywhere."

#  CHAPTER 16

The next few months blurred into one long trial for Cam. He worried about calling Hayden and causing trouble for her divorce. He worried about not calling her and her forgetting how she felt about him. His only source of information on how things were going with Hayden and the divorce came from Tag, who was still crashing at his apartment.

The steady supply of updates was the only benefit to having a new roommate who couldn't hit the toilet when he took a piss drunk or sober. Through Tag, he knew that Hayden kept her word. She filed the divorce. She gave Tag the car and waived alimony. Tag gave her the house—for Lily's sake. Hayden was working for Mark and according to Tag, didn't seem to have a boyfriend.

The only hiccup so far was the parent counseling. Before the court would drop the gavel on the divorce, Tag and Hayden had to agree to a parenting plan. Cam didn't know who suggested the counseling, but he doubted it was Tag. He bitched every time he had to go. According to Tag, the counselor, a woman who had an impressive rack for an old lady, always took Hayden's side. Cam assumed that meant Hayden had a pretty sharp therapist. Which was good but didn't help Cam relax.

Worry was killing him. For starters, he couldn't eat or sleep normally. Even the best bacon double cheeseburger tasted like cardboard. The only thing that made him feel somewhat normal was a good workout. With his cousin taking over his home, it forced him to spend most of his free time at the field house gym. There, he had Shelley to keep him company. Turns out, Shelley was as good a friend as she had been a girlfriend. She was keeping him from going insane by listening to him during their miles-long runs.

"Stop worrying," she said as they came off the track breathless and sweaty. Shelley rubbed her neck and face with a towel.

"Who said I'm worrying?" He wiped away his own sweat with the sleeve of his shirt.

"I see it in your face. The way you only half-listen to anything I say." She gave his arm a squeeze. "She loves you. For real. Have you heard anything about how the divorce is going?"

Cam shrugged. "Only through Tag."

"She hasn't called or messaged?" Shelley blotted around her eyes with the towel, keeping her perfect make-up untouched.

"She told me she wouldn't. She's afraid Tag will contest the divorce at some point and worries about having her phone records checked."

"Call her gay buddy. Let him be the go-between."

"I've thought of that, but wasn't sure..."

"It's what I'd do. Hell, you want me to call her? No one would dream I would be your go-between."

"No," Cam shook his head. He couldn't imagine that would help at all. "She wasn't exactly happy to see you at her house."

Shelley smiled and winked at him. "That's a good sign. Any girl in her right mind should assume I am a threat."

Cam laughed. Shelley snapped his hip with her towel and sauntered off toward the shower. Naked bacon should get his shit together and lock that down. Shell was a helluva a girl.

"Text the friend," she called over her shoulder as she disappeared through the head coach's office.

"Sure. Maybe." He waved at her and headed for the shower. Clean and changed into jeans and a button-up, he pulled out his phone to write yet another text he'd probably delete. There was a missed call from his mother. He rolled his eyes. There were only two reasons she called him—when she wanted something or to punish him with guilt-laden lectures meant to make him a better son. He should talk Tag into moving in with his parents and end two problems with one move. His father still needed help; but help from Cam only pissed him off more. It was as if having Cam do his work was like taking comfort from the enemy.

The longer they played the game, the more it annoyed Cam.

"Hey, Mom. What's up?"

"It's Grandma Tate."

His steps slowed to a stop. Grandma Tate would be 93 this summer and though she was still a spry old gal, that could change in a heartbeat. "Did something happen?"

"She was taking down wallpaper and twisted her ankle stepping off the ladder."

"She was on a ladder?"

"Yes. Stubborn as a mule, that one."

Cam took a deep breath. And smiled. Grandma Tate was the best sort of stubborn. "I'm leaving the field now. I'll go check on her. She at home?"

"Where else would she be? I tried to get her to come home with me, but she refused. She never wants to make things easier on anyone."

His mom and grandma never saw eye to eye. Truth be told, Helen Anderson didn't see eye to eye with any of her family but Cam. "I'll talk to her. Don't worry."

"First your dad gets injured, then Tag, now this. I feel like this family is falling apart."

He wanted to tell her to drop the melodrama, but there was no point. "I need to go. I only have two hours until practice."

"Fine. No one ever has time to talk anymore..."

With that, Cam hung up and took off. When he got to his Grandma's, he felt a sharp stab of reality. This sturdy old brick house was the given in his life. Grandma Tate was the one person he could count on to always support him. She was his biggest fan.

He opened the door to the kitchen with his key and announced his presence as he moved through the house that was more familiar to him than the home he grew up in. "I hear you've been watching too much Home and Garden TV."

Laughter wafted from the TV room, a comfy nook off the dining room. Probably meant to be storage, but to Helen, it was the perfect cozy corner for her recliner and her flat screen TV.

Cam followed the laughter. She was sitting in her recliner, feet up, covered in a self-made afghan. A TV tray with a plate of food sat beside her. He gave her a kiss on the cheek. She looked healthy. Color was good, and she didn't look like she was in pain.

"I put a bag of frozen peas on her ankle and gave her two ibuprofen."

It was Hayden.

Cam turned. She was sitting on the floral loveseat by the door. "Hayden." His heart skipped a beat. She looked tired, but beautiful as ever. Her hair was wrapped in a bun on top of her head and she was wearing glasses and a worn-out sweater, or cardigan as she'd had corrected him the night he helped her escape. That seemed like a lifetime ago.

"Hayden," he said. "I didn't know you were here."

"I called her," Helen said. "When I fell, it tripped my life alert and your mother came running." Helen rolled her eyes. "I'm surprised she didn't call an ambulance."

"She cares about you."

"Hmm," Helen frowned. "Probably hoping to find me dead."

Cam shook his head and chuckled. "You know better than that."

"I know. I know." Helen sighed. "I shouldn't be so salty. She tries. It's not her fault she drives me crazy."

"So, how is this ankle?" Cam removed the bag of peas. The ankle was swollen, but not nearly as bad as some he'd seen over the years. He pressed against the muscle, bone, and sinew to get a better understanding of how bad it was injured. She barely flinched. He put the peas back and patted her knee. "Looks like you'll heal. You able to walk on it?"

"A little. I can sleep in my recliner and I have the bathroom right there."

Cam shook his head. "No need to sleep in the recliner. I'll stay and help you get to your bed."

"Oh, you don't have to do that."

"Tell you what," Cam said, giving her a serious look. "Either I come stay here or I send Tag to you. One way or another, I'm getting a week away from my houseguest."

"Oh, dear lord," Helen shook her head. "Hayden, would you be a dear and put sheets on the guest bed? Seems Cam will be my guest for a bit."

"Of course," Hayden said. As she passed Cam, she gave his hand a small squeeze. He smiled at her. She still loved him.

When he turned back to his grandma, she gave him a knowing look. He sat on the love seat, ready for a lecture.

"Promise me, Cameron." She adjusted herself in her seat and looked him square in the eyes. "When it happens, end this slow brew between you and Hayden. That will only lead to trouble. No hem-hawing or meandering about like you're known to do. Be quick. Like tearing off a bandaid."

"I don't know—"

"I'm old, not blind, deaf, and dumb. I see the looks between you two. Besides, your mother filled me in, thinking I would execute my influence over you and make you forget about Hayden."

"That won't ever happen."

"I realize that. Honestly, she should have married you in the first place, but things are as they are. She's your cousin's wife."

Cam took a deep breath. No matter how much he loved his grandma, not even she could talk him out of loving Hayden. "Grandma Tate, I respect—"

"Oh, be still. You're not listening. When their sham of a marriage is officially ended, my wedding gift to you both will be tickets to Vegas. Marry her fast. Then tell the family."

"Just like that, huh?"

"Just like that. Better to beg forgiveness than to ask for permission. This family will never give their permission. They'll accept any manner of foolishness, but they won't agree to it ahead of time."

Cam nodded, still a bit stunned. "You're serious? You know I love her and I get no lecture about how disloyal I am?"

"Bible says the adulterer forfeits, so the hell with him. Besides, I'm old, Cameron. My work here is almost done and I want my years on this earth to be more than a dead daughter, drunken grandkids, and miserable great grandkids. You will heed my words and live happily ever after. You will break the misery cycle."

"You and grandpa were happy."

She waved him off. "Go. See if Hayden needs any help."

Helen went from laughing to serious to red-eyed and on the verge of tears during his visit. Cam squatted by her chair. He felt it his duty to cheer her up—remind her of the good times in their family. But as he sat there, his mind spinning, he couldn't come up with a single memory. But they weren't all bad memories, not completely. An amalgamation of holidays and events passed through his mind. Sure, there was often tension, but there were laughs. Until someone got drunk. Then it often ended in fistfights, shoving matches, and smashed dinnerware.

As if she could read the confusion, she gave him a smile. She patted his hand. Her hand was cool and soft, the skin so thin he could see every blue vein.

"You're a good boy. Now, go."

"Are you okay?" Maybe it was elder depression. Hadn't he read something about that?

Her hand, so small and fragile, squeezed his. "I'm better than ever. Bum foot and all."

He stood; but couldn't leave. Even though the chance to spend even a minute with Hayden called him like a siren, he couldn't walk away knowing she was sad. Grandma Tate was the family stalwart. Whatever was torn in their lives, she mended it. If she was sad, he had to return the favor.

Cam leaned forward, kissed her cheek, and pulled her in for a hug. She was a tiny woman, but she had big shoulders. "I love her, Granny. Almost as much as this firecracker of an old broad I know."

Helen laughed. "Maybe I'll hitch a ride to Vegas with you guys. Be your witness. Play the slots. I've always wanted to try my luck."

"It's a date." He gave her one more squeeze. "Thank you."

She settled herself into her chair and closed her eyes. "You're welcome, darlin'." As he was walking from the room, she said, "Now, mind you, I'm approving an old-fashioned courtship here. Nothing that will send us all straight to hell. At my age, I've got to stay on the straight and narrow."

#  CHAPTER 17

Finding sheets in Grandma Tate's overstuffed closet wasn't an easy chore. Hayden started looking on the top shelves of the closet with the blankets and extra pillows and worked her way down. Ultimately, she found them in a dresser inside the walk-in closet all the way in the back behind nearly a century of winter coats. The coats rubbed her hair as she ducked under them creating static, making the hair on her arms stand up. Backing out, she bumped into a body. It was Cam. She knew it before she turned around. She smiled as she turned into him. His body was hard; his warmth radiating through solid muscle pulling her in like fire on a cold night.

Having him near made her smile. An involuntary reaction to him. A future with him was what kept her strong through all the red tape the divorce brought with it. At first, she tried to keep her hopes in check, taking life one day at a time waiting for it to all go to hell, but then she allowed herself to hope. Standing there, in a room that smelled of mothballs and aging fabric, she realized she was right to have hope. The time apart didn't seem to make Cam lose interest. When he looked at her, it was as if he had to force himself to look away.

She smiled up at him. "You shouldn't sneak up on people."

"I didn't sneak up. I just didn't give you any warning."

"I think that's called sneaking."

"Nope. That's called strategy."

"That sounds sneaky."

He looked thoughtful a moment, then nodded. "You're right, we'll call it fate."

"Fate." She smiled. "I think that's what it is."

He took the load of pillows and blankets from her. "The bed looks fine. Why bother make it?"

Hayden pulled back the comforter. No bedding besides the mattress cover. "This is why."

Cam tossed his stack of bedding on the rocking chair. Hayden grabbed the fitted sheet from the stack, but Cam took it from her. "Should I tell the old gal she's being sexist assuming I don't know how to make a bed?"

"Do you?" Hayden asked.

"Of course, I do. I've lived alone my entire adult life." It took Cam three tries to line up the fitted elastic with the right side of the bed. Once he got it on, he gave her a wink. "I'm just slow at it."

Hayden grabbed the top sheet.

"Skip that," Cam instructed. "Waste of effort. Just throw that blanket thing back up over it. Good to go."

"But you need—"

"Nope, never use it."

"What do you do with your top sheet?"

"Cut it in quarters. It's perfect for drying my car after I wash it."

Hayden shook her head.

"What?" he asked. "I just made this bed in three minutes, and that was counting all the damn times I had to move that sheet, so that's their fault. They should mark the short side's corners."

"There are only four corners. They'd all be marked." Hayden chuckled. She considered suggesting they could mark the short sides from the long side, but she wouldn't. Cam wasn't wrong very often, so when he was, she enjoyed it. His cheeks would turn pink with embarrassment or frustration. She wasn't sure which. Maybe a bit of both.

"I see you grinning. Enjoy it. Your time will come."

"Not me. I'm never wrong."

"Never?" he asked.

She thought of her marriage. Heat rushed to her cheeks. "At least not about little things. Just the big, life altering things. Those are the things I screw up."

Cam sat on the bed.

Hayden shoved a pillow into its case, then picked up another.

He grabbed her by the hips and pulled her gently toward him. "Stop it," he said, his voice low, almost a whisper.

"Stop what?" Her fingers played with the seam of pillow she held between them.

He took the pillow from her and tossed it over his shoulder. "Stop beating up on yourself."

She shrugged. "We," she swallowed, trying to buy herself time before she admitted to the worry that still woke her up at night. "I've been getting some therapy."

"The parenting stuff?"

She shook her head. "Some individual too. The parenting coach recommended it."

"Has it helped?"

She shrugged. "I suppose. Sometimes it made me feel like an idiot, sitting there, saying out loud all the things, from the women to the abuse that I turned a blind eye to. And for what? To still end up with a failed marriage? What was I trying to save? I realized it's most likely that I'm just an idiot."

"You're not an idiot."

She looked down at him. He looked serious, like he meant what he said. "How can you say that with a straight face?"

"Because you're not an idiot. You fell for the wrong guy. Shit happens."

"But how? How did I ever believe he loved me? Why did I put up with his crap, time and time again?"

She could feel the tension in his fingers as if what he was about to say could make her slip through his grasp. "It wasn't a lie, Hayden. Tag loved you. Hell, part of him still does and I imagine always will."

"Then how can he—"

"He's a selfish little prick. Always has been. In Tag's world, he will always come first. Maybe Lily will win out now and then, but he'll let her down too. So, when he told you he loved you, you believed it because it was real. And you stood by him because you are, by your very nature, loyal. People like you don't make commitments and then walk away easily."

"So, what are you saying, exactly?" She kept hearing the rumors about him and Shelley still hanging out constantly. Was this his smooth, kind way of blowing her off. Did he want Shelley over her? Could Hayden blame him if he did?

"I'm saying, you're not a fool. You didn't fall for a lie and you gave it your best shot. Now, it's time to move on."

"With you?"

"That is my hope." He grinned up at her.

She brushed the dark hair back from his face. "Live and learn?"

"Exactly."

Cam always knew how to make her feel better. It was one of his many gifts. "Thank you, Cam."

"Anything for you. You know that."

She kissed him. A light brush of lips. She cradled his face in her hands. His skin was warm against her palms. She kissed him again. He pulled her closer, her body leaned into him. Her phone buzzed, and she groaned. "I need to go."

"Stay. At least for a little while. I've missed you."

"I've missed you too, but I can't stay."

"Can't or won't?" He didn't let go even though she was pulling away.

She brushed her fingers through his hair. "Can't. Trust me, Cam, I want nothing more than to stay with you. When I'm with you, all that out there isn't so scary."

He looked up at her. "I worry you'll get cold feet."

"Sweetheart, nothing about you makes me cold." She kissed the top of his head. "I've missed you so much. I thought about calling you a million times a day."

"Same here. Nice of the old gal to turn an ankle so I could see you."

"She doesn't know, does she?"

"Seriously? Of course, she knows. She knows everything."

Hayden bit her cheek.

"Relax. She sent me in to help."

"It's nice to know someone is on our side. My family refuses to lift a finger to help me. This is the bed I made, etcetera. It's like they think if I have to make down payments my own, I'll stay married."

"Down payments?"

She sat beside him but held onto his hand. "I'm getting a place in Welch."

"You're not staying in the house?"

"That's Connie's house. She gave it to Tag when we got married. If he wants to give it to Lily later, that's up to him."

"Why Welch?"

"It's outside of Hazelton. Tag has been cool about everything so far, but I don't want to be living here when... well, you know."

"When he finds out about us?"

"Exactly. It won't be pretty." She pulled him to his feet by his hand. It was a strong hand. Big enough and capable enough of protecting her, but she had to protect him too. Tag knew how to push buttons. And Cam had some damn big buttons. His temper being one of them. If there was ever to be anything between them, it couldn't happen with Tag driving past the house any time he wanted. "And besides," she smiled at him, "I want a new start. I went from my parent's house to Connie's. I never even got to house shop, so that was fun to get to do. This place is cute as a button and it has a little private drive, so I feel like I'll be able to live without everyone and their brother, or in my case mother and sister, knowing and judging."

"That's good. And I like how the plan looks on you. You finally look hopeful, excited."

"I am. I've been working for Mark. At first, I refused. It felt like pity. I told him I'd be his assistant for free to thank him for all that he's done, but once I started helping him, my lord, I didn't realize how much he has going on. I realized he needed someone full time, so I took the job."

"He's a good man. I'm glad you have him."

"I am blessed. I have two of the really best men this world has to offer in my corner."

"I've wondered how you were doing. If you needed anything."

"I'm realizing I can be strong. I don't _need_ anyone."

Cam's eyes narrowed.

She placed her hands on his cheeks and held. "Needing someone isn't the same as wanting them. I love you, Cam. Not because I'm afraid to be alone or feel like my world will end if I don't have a man in it. I love you because you see the real me and don't look away. I love you and I want you. And wanting someone is better than needing them."

#  CHAPTER 18

Hayden kissed Helen good-bye, promising to bring Lily for a visit soon. Lily loved to spend time with Grandma Tate. As Lily said, Grandma Tate never told her to hush. Ever.

Hayden walked to the front door with Cam less than a step behind her.

"Does this door even open?" Cam asked.

Few people used the front door. Most of Helen's visitors came through the kitchen. "Your mom's car was in the drive when I got here, so I parked on the street."

Sure, there had been plenty of room in the drive, but there was no way she would saunter in through the kitchen door with Mary there. Cam's mom was not her biggest fan. Even when she and Cam were school friends, Mary ignored her. Once she married Tag and could no longer be ignored, she got cool stares and polite conversation. Now, ever since Cam came back to town, Mary was back to ignoring her and when forced to interact, she was politely hostile. Like today, Mary's greeting to her was a friendly reminder that she was no longer part of the family and didn't need to bother with Helen. Had Helen not yelled from the kitchen for Hayden to help move her, Hayden would have turned and left, gladly.

The homey living room, its walls cluttered with photos; its bookshelves lined with at least a hundred _world's best grandma_ what-nots was the heart of the Tate-Anderson-Vorelli family and could be as busy as Grand Central Station, so kissing Cam good-bye here was a risk. She gave him a quick peck on the cheek and grabbed the door handle.

"That was lame." He grabbed her hand. "Get back here."

"No. It's just..." She looked around the room. "We can't. Not here."

Cam nodded. A slow, cautious nod.

"Cam, I—it just—"

He wrapped his hands around her waist and pulled her close. Planting a kiss on her forehead, he said, "It's okay. I understand."

"Do you?"

"Sure. It's awkward for you."

There was a stress on the _for you,_ like it wasn't at all awkward for Cam. Just her. "Anyone could walk in the door."

"They'll come through the kitchen. I can pretend I don't know who you are before they make it to the living room."

"Stop making light of this," she laughed. "Your family already hates me. Don't you realize that to them, I am the enemy? Honestly Cam, does it ever worry you you'll probably lose everyone?"

"What do I care? I'll have you."

Her eyes stung. She took a suck of air. Cam had a way of making everything feel like there was nothing to worry about. Hayden cupped his cheeks with her hands and pulled him in for a kiss. "I love you. You know that?"

"Not half as much as I love you. I hate hiding. I hate pretending you mean nothing to me."

"It's almost over. We did the six weeks of counseling and signed the final dissolution, or whatever it's called, with our attorneys. As long as neither of us contests and the counselor agrees we can parent without fighting, we will present it to the judge and according to my attorney, the judge will declare us divorced."

He brushed his fingers through her hair. "It's like waiting for Christmas when I was six. So much nervous energy. On the upside, I spend a lot of time at the gym and I am probably in the best shape of my adult life."

Hayden knew that meant gym time with Shelley, but she didn't say that out loud. Who was she to act like the jealous girlfriend when it was her idea to split until the divorce was final? Instead, she kissed him again.

Her phone beeped, and she sighed. "I really have to go. I have an appointment, then I have to pick up Lily. Maybe I can bring her over to see Grandma Tate tonight?"

He brushed his thumb against her lips. "I'll be sure not to go anywhere."

One final kiss and she was out the door and backing her car out of the drive.

The leaves were at full color. The narrow country road glowed as the sun filtered through the red and orange foliage hanging over the blacktop road like a tunnel. Her world felt perfect. Blessed and beautiful.

Her parents and her sister still weren't happy about the divorce, but so what? Cam was right. She'd have him. They'd either come around or they wouldn't.

The counseling center was an annex off the county health department. Hayden parked her car and headed into the building. The place had a trailer feel with its saggy, squeaky floors. Hayden signed in on the pad and sat in one of the stained chairs. She sorted through the stack of magazines until she found one that promised she could walk off ten pounds in thirty days.

The front door opened. The sound caught her attention, and she looked up. Tag gave her a wave as he walked toward her. Dressed in his uniform, he caught the eye of the other ladies in the waiting room. The receptionist gave him a cozy wave, and he rewarded her with a wink.

"Hey," she said as he approached.

He sat beside her. "You been here long?"

"I just got here."

"Good. I was worried I'd be late." He pulled a little doll out of his shirt pocket. "I got this for Lil. Will you give it to her?"

Hayden took the doll. "Why don't you give it to her?"

"I can't see her tonight. I have to work."

"Tomorrow?"

Tag shrugged. "I need to move out of Cam's. Uncle Cliff says I can use the hunting cabin. Since he broke his back, he can't hunt. So, the place isn't being used."

"As soon as I sign the lease on my new—"

Tag shook his head and leaned his elbows on his knees. "Seriously Hayden. I know you want to feel independent and I respect that, but don't move Lily out of her house. Don't you think us splitting is enough change for her right now?"

Hayden bit her lip. She wanted a fresh start. She wanted the cute little house on the private lot in a new town away from the gossip. But Tag made a good point. She had to do what was right by Lily. "You're a good dad, Tag."

"So, you'll stay?"

"I'll stay. Then when the time is right, you can move back into the house."

"I'd like that."

"And I'll move out."

Tag gave her a look that was part defeat, part disappointment. "You don't have to keep reminding me it's over. I get it."

Hayden adjusted the little doll's dress. She was a little blonde thing with eyes that opened and closed. She wore a black skirt and a red, embroidered top. Lily would love her.

The therapist called them in. Hayden tucked the doll in her purse before standing. Tag put a hand on the small of her back as they walked back to the counselor's office. She almost asked him to remove it, but he was trying to get along. She supposed she could relax a little.

In the counselor's office, they agreed on most everything—even specified visitation with grandparents. Hayden's parents would never care, but Tag's mother, Connie, wanted it added to the legal agreement that she could have visitation with Lily, guaranteed. Hayden agreed. She knew that Connie knew her son was a wild card. If he lost his parental rights or disappeared with some bar skank, she'd have to rely on Hayden's generosity to see her only granddaughter. Connie could be loud, obnoxious, and even downright frightening, but she loved her granddaughter. And so far away, she already didn't get enough time with Lily.

"Seems we have everything hashed out. I believe we are ready to sign off on the parenting agreement, which I will forward to Judge Meece."

Hayden dug a pen out of her purse and stood to sign. Finished, she handed the pen to Tag, who looked less than eager to sign off. Her palms started to sweat. They were so close to the finish line. He couldn't back out now.

Hayden cleared her throat. "Tag," she said. "Lily loves you. Nothing will change that."

"It's just her mom who doesn't love me anymore, right?"

Hayden flushed. "I wasn't trying to fight. I was only reminding you you're not losing your daughter just because we won't be together."

Tag nodded. "Thank you. You're all heart."

Hayden ignored the jab. Once they signed everything, Tag gave her an awkward hug and left.

Hayden gathered her purse and her jacket.

"Can I ask you a personal question, Mrs. Matthews?"

"I suppose..." Hayden paused at the door, turning back to the woman.

The therapist closed the file she had for Hayden and Tag and laid her hands on top of it. "I've been meeting with Tag outside our sessions."

"Oh?" Hayden was shocked. The woman was middle-aged, but then she did have pretty big boobs.

"For therapy," she stressed as if reading Hayden's thoughts. "He wanted help with his temper."

"Oh." This time it was the sort of oh that comes from a positive surprise. "That's good to hear."

"He's really invested in being a good parent. And making it up to you for failing you in the marriage."

"That's good," Hayden mumbled. It was beginning to feel like guilt, not therapeutic advice.

"And for Lily's sake, I would hope you'd meet him halfway on this. Give him a chance to be a different man."

"I will. I truly enjoy not fighting with him. I'd like nothing more than to continue to get along."

"I'm so glad to hear that. I hate to see families that can be saved destroyed in the process of divorce."

Hayden swallowed. She suddenly felt cold. She wanted no more delays, and she was done trying to save this sinking ship. "I think; in our case, Tag and I get along better without the romantic entanglements. I think we're building a much better relationship based on mutual respect."

"This is the end of the process, Mrs. Matthews. Your decision here will affect your daughter's life forever. Children of divorced parents are more likely to divorce themselves. They have more trust issues. Your husband has been working hard at this and I just hope that you are putting in the same effort."

"I've been to every meeting. I've even seen my own therapist. Maybe you and Tag have a special bond so you're only seeing his work in the process, but trust me, I've put in the effort too."

"No need to get angry. I'm just wanting to put all the facts on the table."

"Thank you, for the advice. Trust me, this isn't a decision I made on a whim. I've struggled with this for years." Hayden was so mad. She could barely hide the shaking. How dare this woman make her the bad guy? Oh, she knew why. Tag had a way of charming everyone. Handsome, funny, strategically vulnerable. Tag was never the bad guy.

"It's just that in my line of work, I've found that almost any marriage can be saved as long as there isn't a third party."

"In that case, we're doomed because Tag has been bringing in third party complications since the week before our wedding and he's never slowed down for anything. Not even the birth of our child. Now, am I done here or not?"

#  CHAPTER 19

Hayden rehashed the therapist's comments as she drove. Was she a monster for wanting to be happy? Screw happy. She didn't start the divorce process so she could be _happy_. She wasn't a child. She knew _happy_ was an elusive, often selfish goal. Being happy was Tag's thing. He wanted every day of his life to be a party.

She hadn't asked for anything so impressive. She didn't ask for a big house or a new car. Hell, she didn't even expect vacations. All she wanted was a simple life, a peaceful life. A life where she knew when her husband said he had to work late that he truly was working late, not diddling the bartender or dropping the grocery money into a slot machine.

She'd have been content with a marriage that simply wasn't miserable.

What was it her therapist had told her... people instinctively fear change? They didn't really blame her; they were simply trying to maintain the status quo. He predicted they'd eventually come around. Hayden thought of her family and laughed. Poor bastard didn't know what the Greens were like. It would be a cold day in hell before the Green family signed onto a divorce. It simply wasn't done. No changes. No forgiveness.

Pulling into the Green drive, she took a deep breath. Going home was never easy. Her parents preferred, no demanded perfection. Even their lawn wasn't permitted to grow a single blade of crabgrass. Hayden shut off her car and said a prayer for strength, which she doubted would be answered because God was probably pissed at her for being a failure too.

She shut the car door, and it slammed. She cringed. The living room curtains moved. Hayden could see her mother peeking out. She was probably bitching about the car door. "Hayden never takes care of anything," Hayden mocked as she wound her way up the brick-lined walk. The edging was perfect, of course. But looking closely, she noticed her father had even filled in all the cracks in the walk with some ubiquitous gray putty. Hayden was continuously amazed her parents found the time to obsess over the details like they did.

The door swung open. "It's almost 5:30. I was beginning to worry."

"Counseling ran late."

Her mother nodded. "Did you guys get things worked out?"

"We came up with a parenting contract, if that's what you mean."

Her mother's eyes filled with tears. She shook her head. "I just don't understand how you think a broken home is what's best for Lily."

"It's been a broken home since she was born. I'm trying to fix it."

"I suppose that's how you justify it."

Hayden opened her mouth to argue but closed it. What good would it do? Her mother would never hear her. Not in a million years. Instead, she stood her ground like her therapist said. She didn't need them to approve. She was an adult. These were her choices. "Justification or not, it's how it will be."

Hayden's heart fluttered and her mouth went dry. Talking back to her mother was not permitted. But she did it. Her mother gave her a look. It was the same look she'd get for giggling in church. It was meant to shame her. Hayden stared back boldly. Her mother sighed and walked into the house, allowing the screen door to close in Hayden's face.

Okay, so not exactly a _Brady Bunch_ reaction, but she didn't choke her out either. Hayden took a deep breath and let herself in the house. She followed her mother through the living room and dining room to the kitchen. The carpets still had vacuum cleaner marks. Her mother vacuumed three, four times a day to keep the marks fresh.

"Your sister is coming for dinner," she said without looking back at Hayden. "You could stay."

Hayden knew she could spend her evening shoving razor blades under nails, but she didn't want to do that either. "I can't. Helen turned her ankle, and I promised to stop in and check on her this evening."

"Is she all right?" Her mother finally turned and faced her. She pressed a hand to her chest. "I should send something."

"She's okay. Just needs to stay off it for a few days."

"Let me see what I have." Her mother opened and closed cupboards. "You should have told me sooner. I need to send something."

"You don't have to send anything, Mom. I'm sure she has food."

"That's what's wrong with your generation. No sense of duty or commitment. When a friend is down, you send something." Hayden always imagined her mother should wear a dress and pearls as old-fashioned as she sounded, but she always wore jeans—with a seam ironed down the middle of the legs like slacks—and a world's best mom or grandma sweatshirt with a lace collar that she would add herself to give the fleece wear a less casual look.

"Here we go." Her mother pulled a cake pan wrapped in plastic out of the freezer. "Here. Take this. It's a lasagna." She slid the frozen pan into a brown bag and handed it to Hayden. "Thaw it before you cook it for her so it cooks evenly."

"All right. I better go. Where's Lily?"

"In the basement with your father."

Her mother went to the basement door and yelled down, "Sean, your daughter is here to get Lily. She's late and needs to go."

"All right," her dad yelled back. "Just a minute."

"She said she needs to go." Her mother's tone was sharper, louder.

"You don't need to yell at him. I'm not in that big a hurry."

Her mother shrugged. "One failed marriage under your belt and you're suddenly an expert on relationships."

Hayden's hold on the lasagna tightened. She took a deep breath. Her dad and Lily emerged from the basement. Hayden set the lasagna on the table just in time to catch Lily for a hug. The fragile little arms wrapped around her neck were her reminder to do the right thing. This child deserved better.

"Get your coat and backpack, Lil. We need to go check on Grandma Tate."

Lily hurried to the living room.

Hayden gave her dad a hug and a kiss, said good-bye to her mom, and met Lily at the door. She could hear her dad ask why she was running off so fast and her mother answer, "You know Hayden. Never worries about anyone but herself."

Hayden scooped Lily up and carried her to the car. She strapped her in her car seat. Hayden's head hurt. She wished she had parents who loved her so much they overlooked any bad that she could do. Tag had that with Connie. No matter what he did, Connie made excuses for him. Hayden had to admit she was jealous of him. So many people loved Tag without a single condition attached. She kissed Lily on the head, silently promising herself her daughter would always be loved.

On her way to Helen's, she noticed Mark's car parked at his mother's apartment. Lily also spotted the black Land Rover and yelled, "Uncle Mark's here."

"Seems he is."

"Stop, Mommy. I want to see him."

Hayden nodded and pulled the car over.

She knocked on the door and Lita, Mark's mother, answered. "Hayden," she said with a squeal and open arms, pulling Hayden in for a hug that was part dance, part hop. "What a surprise. Come in." She dragged Hayden through the door. "I've missed you, sweetheart. Mark said you two were working together. Besties together, just like high school. I hope that means you'll be dropping in on me often. I'm old and needy, you know."

Lita was loud and brash, but she had a heart as big as her weekend hairdo. "I can't imagine you as needy."

"You forgot to say I wasn't old."

Hayden blushed. "Of course, you're not old."

Lita laughed. "Sit, darlin'. Can I get you a drink? Something to eat?"

Lita's apartment was on the second floor of an old Victorian. It was a small two bed, one bath. It was the same home she'd been in since she and Mark were in grade school. Being in the familiar place eased some of the tension in Hayden's shoulders. As much as her own mother made her feel inadequate in everything, Lita thought she was capable of all things marvelous.

The layout was the same, though the once-shabby furniture was gone. In its place were furnishings that were best described as Best Buy meets whore house. A cheetah print sofa covered in furry red throw pillows faced the hugest flat screen TV Hayden had ever seen.

Lita must have noticed Hayden admiring the decor. "You haven't been here in a while, have ya, darlin'?"

"No, not since high school. You've really..." Hayden thought of something kind to say. "Made this place pop."

"My Marky gave me carte blanche, his words, to redo the whole apartment. You should see where the magic really happens. It's the gem in my crown." Lita elbowed her and chuckled before she turned to Lily. "Speaking of special little gems, I was sitting here cleaning my jewels when you guys knocked. You wouldn't happen to know anyone with little hands who might help me polish some jewels, would you?"

"I have little hands," Lily said tugging on Lita's shirt, a black tunic with a sassy-looking cat made of sequins.

"I'll be. You do. Why come with me to the table." She guided Lily to a glass-topped table and showed her how to scrub the mound of rhinestone baubles with toothpaste and a cloth.

Lily dove right into the work. She only paused long enough to say, "Mrs. Lita, I love your shirt. I'm wearing kittens, too."

Lita gave Lily a wink. "We are ladies with fine taste."

Mark appeared looking completely out of place in his crisp white button-up shirt and brown leather loafers. "Why if it isn't Hay Bale. To what do we owe the pleasure?"

"Lily saw your car out front and thought we should stop in and say hi."

"Aww. Bring it in," he said, walking toward her with his arms outstretched. "You have that pinched-around-the-lips look. What's wrong?"

"Nothing. I stopped because of Lily."

"Hayden?"

"May as well spill, Hayden. You know my Marky. He gets an idea and doesn't quit until you tell him everything," Lita said.

"Mother is still sore that I asked her if Cliff Vorelli was my father."

"Mark, how could you?" Hayden punched him in the arm. "I told him to leave you alone, Lita. I swear I did."

"It was an easy question to answer. Not a snowball's chance in hell." Lita chuckled. Then she sighed. "I didn't realize Mark was so desperate to have a father to consider Cliff Vorelli as an option."

"Mother," Mark said. "Who on God's green earth wouldn't want to know who his father is? I can't believe you always act so surprised."

"I suppose I should've asked the guy his last name. His first name was Rick. Or Roy. Maybe Rob? Oh hell, how was I to know I was gonna get knocked up that night? All I know is he had on a Virginia Tech tee-shirt that fit his muscles just right and he could shotgun a beer quicker than anyone I'd ever met."

Mark took a deep breath. "The miracle of my creation. It's a story I never tire of hearing."

"Did you tell her everyone who saw you and Cam together thought you two were brothers?" Hayden asked.

Mark shook his head.

"You and Cam Vorelli?" Lita asked. "Why were you guys together?"

Mark rolled his eyes at Hayden. "He gave Hayden a ride the night she left..." Mark looked at Lily. "Her marital bondage."

"Cam gave you a ride, huh? Be careful with that, Hayden. Pretty sure that boy has a crush on you. Leastways he did when you guys were kids."

Mark grinned. "Mother, you're as perceptive as you are adorable."

"So, you're saying I'm right?"

"You're right. The boy is crazy about her. That's why I needed to know if he was my brother. I couldn't let Hay Bale break my maybe-brother's heart."

"Well, he's not. I once asked Cliff to a dance when we were in high school and his mother called my mother. I was told in no uncertain terms that Cliff Vorelli was off limits. I suppose Helen Anderson thought I wasn't good enough for her idiot grandson."

"Really? Helen did that? She's usually so sweet," Hayden said.

"Well, she is a Tate and they're the hoity-toitiest in this town. Probably thought I was white trash. I don't think her and my mother got along either, even though Mom worked for Dr. Anderson for years."

"Maybe she liked you," Mark suggested. "And knew her grandson was a jackass and was saving you the heartache."

"That is a good theory," Hayden laughed. "I'll have to ask her. That's curious."

"Speaking of curious, you sidestepped the original question quite well. But I have a memory." Mark tapped his perfect head of black hair. "What's nibbling at you, my dear?"

Hayden looked over at Lily. The little girl wasn't paying any attention to them; she was too busy with her work. "It's just—I'm sick of the guilt and the jabs over the divorce. My mother, she never stops. My sister is giving me the cold shoulder. Even the family therapist gave me crap about it. We had our meeting today and she asked me to stick around so she can lecture me on how our divorce will harm Lily. And she even had the audacity to insinuate I should stay with Tag because he's _trying so hard_."

Mark rolled his eyes. "What an ignorant bitch."

"Who was she?" Lita asked. "The fat one or the skinny one?"

"The skinny one."

"Carla Hopkins. Know-it-all pain in the arse. She's been warned for overstepping her boundaries."

Hayden had forgotten that Lita worked in the sheriff's office at the courthouse. She felt better knowing she wasn't over-exaggerating the situation, and the woman was a Lita-certified bitch. So, why was she letting someone like that get under her skin? Why did she allow a near stranger make her question her motives? Well, possibly because her happily ever after hung in the balance of that woman's report to the court. 

#  CHAPTER 20

"Cam! Hi Cam," Lily yelled tapping on the car window. "Look, Mommy, it's Cam. It must be friend day."

"It must be." Hayden smiled. Cam was dressed in shorts and a long sleeve active-fit tee that hugged his body. He was perfect. And he wanted her. How insane was that?

"Hi doggy," Lily yelled at the closed window.

It was then that Hayden noticed the dog Cam was spraying with the water hose rinsing the bubbles from the animal's fur.

Hayden stepped out of the car. "You doing side jobs or did you get yourself a pet?"

Cam looked down at the dog, a skinny giant of a beast. "He wandered onto the practice field. Damn thing's half-starved. And smells like he rolled in something dead."

"So, you have a new pet," Hayden laughed.

"I want to see Cam's doggie." Lily pushed against the car seat harness. "Let me out, Mommy."

Hayden unsnapped the latches and pulled Lily from the seat. She carried her to the dog and held onto her to keep her from mauling the poor thing with hugs. "Put me down. I want to help Cam."

"Does he bite?"

"Nah, he's a good boy," Cam said. "He didn't even growl at the vet and he stuck a thermometer you know where." He offered Lily the hose. "You want to help?"

Lily grabbed the hose.

Hayden laughed. It was an absurd question. Did Lily want to help? So many of her favorite things in one spot: Cam, a dog, water, and bubbles. Throw in strawberry ice cream with sprinkles and the girl might faint from excitement.

"Did you name him, Cam?" Lily ran tiny hands through bubbly fur as she sprayed more water on Cam's tennis shoes than she did on the dog.

"Not yet. Why don't you name him? As I recall, you're pretty good at that."

"Maybe you can name him French Fry," Lily said.

"Not Chicken Nugget?"

"Certain-netly not Coffee," Lily laughed. "Do you 'member the coffee?"

"I remember the coffee." Cam looked up at Hayden and gave her a look. Warm brown eyes settled on hers as if to remind her it was in that moment, soaked to the skin with hot coffee, that everything changed. It was their tipping point.

"That was accident," Lily said.

"I kind of like French Fry," Hayden said. "He looks a bit like a large fry. All long and skinny."

At the sound of her voice, the dog looked up at her with soulful eyes that seemed to beg her to save him from the bubbles. "Careful of his eyes, Lil."

"I'd never get it in his eyes, would I Frenchie Fry?" Lily kissed the dog's head.

"Don't kiss the dog. You could get worms." Hayden frowned.

"He's worm free," Cam said. "Vet certified."

Hayden shook her head. "You're not helping."

Lily stroked the dog's ear gently. Then gave it a kiss. Hayden shook her head. "I can't watch this. I trust you'll keep her under control, Cam?"

"Of course."

"Well then, you guys have fun. I'll go check on Helen."

"She had me pick her up some gin on my way over, so be forewarned, she's feeling chatty."

"Helen, tipsy?"

Cam nodded.

"This I've got to see."

Hayden made her way to the TV room. Helen was watching Jeopardy, yelling out answers, and bad-mouthing the players for their ignorance.

"Helen?" Hayden said from the doorway.

Helen waved from her recliner. "Hayden, come in. Sit down. We can watch these fools make fools of themselves."

Hayden went to sit on the couch.

"Wait, wait. Before you sit. Why don't you freshen my drink?" Helen shook the ice in her empty glass. "And while you're at it, make one for yourself."

"Sure," Hayden said.

"Gin and tonic with a twist of lime."

"Gotcha." Hayden went to the kitchen and made two drinks, but only one with gin.

"Here you go." Hayden handed Helen the glass and sat back down.

Helen took a long sip. "You mix a drink better than Cam."

"Thank you." Hayden took a drink of her ginless tonic. "Lily is outside with Cam washing the dog."

"He said he found one. Is it cute?"

"Looks a bit like a shepherd, hound mix. Poor thing is so skinny."

"It will be good for Cam. He could use some love. My damn son sure never cuts him any slack. While he's been staying here, he's fixed damn near every broken thing in this house. Cliff stopped by for dinner and gave him hell for... well, pretty much everything. I'm not even sure Cam screwed in a lightbulb right. Wrong wattage or some such nonsense."

Hayden frowned, but said nothing.

"My mother always said, 'if a man doesn't love the child's mother, he can't love the child'. I've often wondered if that wasn't why Cliff could never see any good in his own son."

Hayden choked on her drink. Covering her mouth with her hand, she tried her best not to appear shocked.

"Surely you're not surprised by the admission that him and Mary aren't exactly madly in love? Good God, they fight constantly."

"Some couples bicker more than others."

"Bicker," Helen chuckled. "Nice euphemism for ripping at each other's throats. Though, I will give Mary credit. She rarely raises her voice, but she can neuter a man with a whisper."

"She's always seemed so... perfect."

"Oh, she's perfect. A perfect pain in the posterior. She's martyred herself for so long, it's become her life. Cliff is the bad guy. She's the victim. Poor, poor Mary. Hell, she's the one who wanted Cliff bad enough to practically camp on our porch. He was always a handsome man. Him and Cam both take after Earl. He was a tall, swarthy devil of a man."

"Is it because he cheated on her, do you think?"

"I honestly believe Cliff was loyal, at first. It seemed to start when Cam was born. Mary went from fun wife to uptight mother and it's been downhill ever since. Mary gets to be the injured party while Cliff diddles whoever whenever. I've come to realize Anderson men don't really need love in their life to survive. Just a warm body."

Hayden's mouth dropped open. She didn't know what to say.

"Don't worry. Cam's different. He's more of a Vorelli. Max Vorelli was madly in love with my daughter. The two of them were downright crazy about each other. So much so, they dumped their kids on me and got themselves killed traipsing all over the country. But they did love each other. They're the exception."

"I never really thought... I always assumed Tag got his, um, bad behavior from the Vorelli side. That's what he always says, at least."

"Oh, that's what we say. It's more acceptable to blame folks outside the family. But I'm a Tate, not an Anderson. No, dear, unfortunately for me, the lack of moral compass and itchy pants was the Anderson side. My Earl was a philandering asshole son of a bitch." Helen took another swig.

Hayden stared at her glass. Then she sighed. "I'm sorry, Helen. I know how bad that hurts."

"I know you do, dear. Even if you don't love them, it's humiliating." She sighed. "The hell of it was, I loved my bastard. He just didn't love me.

"Oh Helen, surely not. Earl was crazy about you."

"Once he thought he was too old to do any better. And once he got the Salvan woman out of his head."

Hayden dropped her glass on the floor. It hit and bounced, spilling ice and liquid across the carpet. "I'm so sorry." Hayden jumped up.

"Sit down. It'll dry."

Hayden scooped up the ice and shoved it in the glass.

"You're a jumpy little thing."

"Slippery fingers."

"More like shocked. You're so sweet. It's probably hard for you to imagine people being so awful. But here's a lesson for you. The world is full of awful people. So full of them." Helen stared at the ice in her glass. "I'm tired, Hayden. All the way to my bones. I look back over my life and I wonder, what good did I do with it? I should have divorced Earl and found my own happily ever after. But that wasn't done, back then. You got married, and you stayed married. No matter what. When I was young, I suppose it made sense to me somehow. But now, I know it's not what marriage was meant to be. I'll never believe that God put any human on earth to be treated like dirt by another human."

Hayden nodded.

Helen hugged her glass to her chest. "Or maybe I'm wrong and I'm headed to hell when I go."

Hayden's eyes widened. She tried to put on a poker face, but it was not at all the conversation she expected to be having today.

Helen laughed. "Since I'm the one giving you the advice, when I die, I'll send you a sign. Butterflies or birds and all that malarkey if I'm right. A lightning strike if I'm wrong."

"You have plenty of years ahead of you; no sense talking like that."

"Some days I don't know."

"You can't give up. I swear, this family would be a mess without you."

Helen laughed. "You make a good point." Helen reached out and patted Hayden's hand. "Stop looking so worried. I'm not depressed or suicidal. I'm just in a reflective mood."

Hayden thought of what Lita said. "You mentioned the Salvan woman. I was talking to Lita Salvan tonight. She said she asked Cliff to a dance once, and you refused to let Cliff go with her. Was that because of her mother?"

Helen laughed so hard she had to catch her teeth and shove them back in. "Oh, it wasn't her mother I worried about; it was her father."

Hayden tried hard to remember Mark's grandfather. She realized Mark never mentioned the man.

"My Earl was diddling Jackie, Lita's mom, from the time he came home from Korea until she turned thirty and got smart enough to give him an ultimatum. Dear God, Earl was in his fifties and she was just a kid. Disgusting."

"You're saying Lita and Cliff are brother and sister?"

Helen shook her head. "No, Lita is his aunt. Earl Anderson had two daughters. Our Carol and Lita's mother."

"So, Cam and Mark Salvan are cousins?"

Helen nodded. "That's why when Lita asked Cliff to that dance, I called Jackie and told her we either needed to tell these kids the truth or keep them the hell apart."

"And she chose to keep them apart rather than tell them the truth?"

Helen nodded.

Hayden smoothed her hair. "Does Cliff or Connie know?"

"No. I left that to Jackie to decide, and she didn't want it known. She married an evangelical and didn't want him to know what an adulterous little slut she was. I let her have her secrecy. I didn't have to raise a child alone, but then I wasn't dumb enough to spread my legs for a married man. In the 1950s, no less. What in God's name did she think would happen? He was a respected doctor. Did she seriously think he would leave his wife and children for a much younger, much hotter woman?"

"I have to admit; I'm a bit floored."

"And I'm empty." She again shook the glass of ice at Hayden.

"Are you sure you want another?"

"Make this one a coffee. I don't want to fall asleep on Lily."

Hayden stood to get the glass. She looked into Helen's eyes. They looked tired, faded by age and pain. She leaned down and kissed the soft, wrinkled cheek. "I think you're a remarkable woman, Helen Tate. And you never, ever cease to amaze me."

"My father always said I was the wild card in the family," Helen laughed.

Hayden smiled. She was happy to see a smile on Helen's face. Cam and Lily appeared in the doorway with a freshly cleaned dog. The dog made his way directly to Helen and sat by her side.

Helen patted the dog's head. "You know which side your bread is buttered on, don't you? Hayden, while you're in the kitchen, there's a platter of roast that didn't get finished at dinner. I bet our new friend would like that."

"His name is French Fry," Lily said.

"Frenchy, eh?" Helen said. "I like it."

Hayden headed for the kitchen; Cam followed her.

Hayden opened the fridge door and looked for the plate of meat. "Will you put on a pot of coffee? Time for Helen to sober up," Hayden whispered.

"Yeah. She was trying to give me advice on pleasing a woman in the bedroom earlier. Thank God I had the shit smelling dog to get me out of the house."

Hayden couldn't stifle the giggles. Cam wasn't the sort who enjoyed sharing personal stuff. She'd have loved to have seen the look on his face when his beloved grandmother brought up sex. "I wish I had been here. But just imagining it brightens up a crappy day."

Cam leaned against the counter, making his upper arms flex. "I didn't realize today was a bad day."

"The whole day wasn't. I had to stop at my parents—hear the guilt from my mom. And for the cherry on top, our parenting counselor pretty much told me I'm ruining my daughter's life to divorce her father. Seems I'm now the selfish one."

Cam took a deep breath and let it out slowly. "Am I becoming a problem, Hayden?"

"What is that supposed to mean?"

"The excessive guilt you're feeling. Is that my fault? Maybe we should forget I ever said anything; that we ever said anything."

#  CHAPTER 21

It wasn't a question Cam wanted to ask, but it was something he had to consider. If being with him caused nothing but stress and harm, were they doing the right thing?

Hayden grabbed his arm, gripping him like a life raft. "This has nothing to do with you, or us. It's them. They're all crazy. And I'm crazy for letting them get under my skin."

He brushed his thumb across her cheek. She pressed his cheek into his hand, closed her eyes, and smiled. It was a quick flutter of a smile. "No regrets, Cam. Just tired of the insanity."

Her smile drained all the tension from his body. "They're the crazy ones, huh?"

"Of course." She moved close enough for him to feel the heat from her body. She said, "It has to be them, because there's nothing wrong with us."

He pulled her to him and kissed her. Moving from her lips, down her neck, to the curve of her shoulder. He whispered against her skin. "That's good to know. I never want to be the cause of your bad days."

"Knowing you're in my corner is what's getting me through." She leaned her cheek against his chest.

He brushed her hair back and kissed her temple. "We're getting there. Soon, it'll be over."

She nodded, pulled him tighter, and stayed there, cradled against him. Little footsteps echoed through the hall and stopped at the doorway. "Grandma Tate says you musta got lost."

Hayden pulled back so fast, he thought she might suffer whiplash. She grabbed the coffeepot on the stove and filled it with water, spilling half of it as she carried it from the sink. Her hands shook as she dug a filter from the box.

Cam took the coffee making job from her before she spilled coffee grounds everywhere. "Why don't you find the roast for French Fry."

The dog arrived. Tail wagging, French Fry licked his chops as if he knew there was a treat planned for him in the kitchen. Hayden opened the fridge. Moving jars of pickles and jellies, she finally grabbed the platter of food and set it on the kitchen table. The dog whined, prancing side to side as if trying to mind his manners but wanting more than anything to pull the plate off the table and tear into the food.

"He's hungry, Mommy. Give it to him."

"I know, baby. Let me find an old bowl." Hayden looked through the cupboards.

Cam left the coffee to perk and grabbed the plate off the table and set it on the floor. The dog devoured the meat and potatoes in gulps.

"Cam," Hayden said. "That's a good platter."

"In that case, I suppose I'll wash it instead of throwing it away."

Lily sat by the dog as he ate and stroked his fur. "Yeah, so what. Wash it."

Cam kneeled between Lily and the dog. "Careful around dogs while they eat, Lils. It's a good way to get bit."

"Frenchy would never bite me." Lily's big brown eyes looked up at Cam with so much trust. All the talk of the divorce harming the little girl gave him a pinch of guilt. Would it hurt her? This little girl with a heart so big there wasn't an animal she didn't want to love—would the divorce end that?

"Sometimes a dog will hurt you without meaning to. So, until you really know French Fry, don't pet him while he eats, okay?"

Lily nodded. "He might think my hand is a piece of chicken or something?"

"Yeah, something like that."

When the coffee gurgled to a stop, he poured three cups, grabbed Lily a juice box, and led them back to the TV room to watch a cartoon. Cam couldn't watch the TV. Lily sat on her mom's lap. Hayden absently stroked the shiny blonde hair. Lily looked so much like her mom, all the way down to the jut of her chin and the way she rubbed her nose with the tips of her fingers. The two of them deserved nothing but the best. He just hoped it really was him they needed.

* * *

Two days later, a thunderstorm hit when an artic front collided with Indian summer stripping the trees of their leaves leaving behind barren limbs and gray skies. Cam missed the sunshine, but figured the weather better fit his mood. He knew what he wanted... hated himself for wanting it so much. If only he could be more like Tag and not give a shit if his choices hurt other people. He sighed and pulled his eyes from the window. Pulling his laptop closer, he started work on the practice schedule.

"You don't look at all happy," Shelley said from the doorway.

"I'm fine." Cam answered without looking up from his laptop.

Shelley made her way into his office and sat on the edge of his desk. "Is your grandma okay?"

"She's fine. She was hobbling around this morning insisting on making breakfast."

"So why the long face?"

"I don't—"

"Don't bullshit me. I've seen you look happier after a pick-6."

"I'm fine. It's just—" he looked up at Shelley and sighed. "I've been reading about the effect of divorce on kids on the internet."

Shelley shook her head and frowned. "Lily's dad is a total asshole. You know that."

"Everyone keeps telling me how much Tag has changed."

"So, you're wondering if Hayden's little girl would be better off in a family where her dad is an absent man-whore? Or with you, Boy Scout of the year?"

Cam sighed. "Did you hear the part about him being a much changed and better man?"

"Look," Shelley leaned across the desk until they were almost nose to nose. "I'm going to hit you with a hard truth. You ready for it?"

"Sure." He leaned back in his seat. "Hit me."

"Tag Matthews hasn't changed one iota."

"Have you heard something?"

"Let's just say he's not stupid. The man still gets the itch, and he's more than happy to get it scratched. But he's smart enough to know that he has to be on his best behavior, so who in this town would be the safest bet to say nothing to anyone if something should happen between them?"

Cam was at a loss. He shook his head, palms up.

"Think hard."

Cam frowned. "Someone who is also married?"

"Or dating your cousin?"

Cam's eyes widened. "He hit on you?"

Shelley shrugged. "Technically, I started it. But he was eager to play. All I had to do was ask him to never say a word, and he's practically grabbing my purse and dragging me out of the bar."

"You and Tag?"

Shelley shrugged. "He's hot. And he's a lot of fun to be around, as long as you don't need him for anything serious."

"So how long has this been going on?"

"A few weeks. I didn't mark it on my calendar. We were together last night. And he's coming over tonight." She gave Cam a sly grin. "Tag is entertaining, and he works so very hard to knock you out of the saddle. It's a win-win for me."

"Christ, Shell. What's up with you? What happened to Naked Bacon?"

"He's a dick. I've had it with him and his games. It's the same old bullshit. He's going to leave his wife after the next kid's illness has passed or the next damned moon wanes, waxes, or whatever the hell it does."

"I'm sorry. You deserve—"

"Stop. Pity makes me feel even more like a loser."

Cam frowned, twisting back and forth in his desk chair.

"I'm sick of all of it, Cam. My life. This job. This town. I've got to find something new. Something better. As, a matter of fact," she turned the laptop on his desk toward her. "Check this out. I applied after a night of drinking. I was totally just screwing around and got offered the job. Daddy will shit, of course. But damn, I need something different in my life."

Cam scanned the website she'd pulled up. It was for a football scout. He looked up at her. She nodded and flashed him a wicked grin.

"You're leaving? Like for good?"

Shelley nodded. "I could be the scout for players for a new pro team in—wait for it—Poland." She laughed. "Can you believe that?"

"They have pro football in Poland?"

She shrugged. "It's not the NFL, but they have a small league and the pay is decent."

"You'd go to Poland, for real?"

"Yep."

"I can't imagine this place without you."

"You may be all that I miss from this place."

Her eyes filled with tears reminding him that Shelley wasn't just about fun and games. She had a big heart that could be broken. He stepped around the desk and gave her a hug. "I hope this makes you happy."

"You're not even going to try to talk me out of it?" she chuckled.

"Not when I hear you're hanging out with Tag. I didn't think you could do worse than Naked Bacon, but you proved me wrong."

"At least he doesn't make promises."

"Don't defend him. And for God's sake, don't fall for him."

"I wasn't and I won't. I'm done with it all. I'm starting fresh."

"I will miss you. I wouldn't have made it through the last few months without your support. Now, what am I going to do?"

"Have no fear, my friend. Word on the street is Hayden and Tag will have their final hearing this afternoon."

"I thought it would still be a few more weeks?"

Shelley shook her head. "Seems their marriage counselor overstepped herself and Hayden's lawyer filed a something or the other, so it's being fast-tracked. By midnight tonight, you can legally end the sneaking around and finally do something about your blue balls. I'll keep Tag busy for ya."

Cam's cheeks burned with embarrassment. "I, uh—"

Shelley laughed. "You're so cute when you stutter."

"You know how to leave me speechless."

She planted a kiss on his cheek and headed for the door. "Later, Cam." She paused at the door. "If she gets cold feet like Naked Bacon, call me. The PLFA is looking for coaches and speaking from personal experience, no matter how hard he tries, your cousin ain't got nothing on you. I'd be more than happy to have you keep me company in any country."

#  CHAPTER 22

It was after eight before Cam got a call from Hayden.

"Guess what?" she asked when he answered.

Cam smiled and swiveled in his office chair. "You got a new phone with encryption services?"

Hayden laughed. "No, but why hadn't you thought of that sooner?"

"I'm a fool."

"Well, since you're obviously bad at guessing, I'll just tell you. It's official. I'm legally a single woman. Mark suggested I throw one of those parties where you burn your wedding gown, but I sold that years ago."

"I'm glad to hear it. Not that you sold the dress, but the single life."

"I have to admit. I don't feel any different. I think I've been single for years."

Cam sat forward in his seat. He didn't know what the next step should be. Should he take his Grandma's advice and whisk her off to Vegas and marry her? Or ask her out to a celebration dinner?

He took a deep breath, exhaled and said, "Grandma Tate said when the divorce was final, she'd sponsor a wedding trip to Vegas." His heart hammered. If she liked the idea, great. He could have a ring before the mall closed. If she hated the idea, it was a joke he could blame on his Grandmother. Old girl wouldn't object to being thrown under the bus for love.

Hayden was quiet. He was about to say he was kidding, but his phone beeped. It was Grandma Tate. "Hey," he said to Hayden. "Can I call you back in a sec? It's Grandma Tate."

"Of course."

He answered the call. It was his mother, calling from his grandma's phone. Cam's stomach clenched. Grandma Tate didn't call his mother, ever. Especially not when she could call him. He thought of her fall alert. It was tied to his parent's phone. Cam grabbed his jacket off the back of the chair and talked as he walked to his car.

"Cam," she said. Her voice broke. "I'm so sorry, sweetheart."

"Sorry? About what?"

"It's Grandma."

"She okay?"

"No." There was a long pause.

Cam came to a stop in the long, hollow hallway that lead to the parking lot. He didn't want to hear it. His gut told him this was end game. But if no one said the words, it wasn't real.

"I got a call from her emergency response people that the thingy activated and Helen didn't answer their call. They wanted to know if I wanted to call 911 or check in on her." His mother broke into tears. "I... I just had this horrible feeling. I didn't want to go. And your dad... he wasn't home. I told them to send 911."

"That's fine."

"When they got there, your dog wouldn't let them in the house, so they called me. I went over and she was lying on the floor. Just lying there, like she's staring up at the ceiling. I held the dog and they... they didn't even try to resuscitate her. They just called the funeral home. Now, they're here and they're trying to load her up and your dog won't let them. I don't know what to do. I don't want to be here. I can't find your dad. This shouldn't fall on you. Where the hell is he? Of all the selfish things he's done, where is he?"

"It's okay, Mom. Go wait on the porch; I'll be right there."

Cam hung up the phone and took off.

* * *

Hayden never heard back from Cam. He either forgot to call her back, or she'd offended him over the wedding proposal and he didn't want to talk to her. She was about to call him back when Tag called her. For the first time in her life with him, he sounded genuinely emotional. He couldn't speak through the tears.

"Take a deep breath, Tag. What's wrong?"

Lily played with farm animals on the coffee table. Hayden reached out and smoothed the child's hair as if by magic, the child could stop whatever bad was coming.

He took a deep breath. "Grandma Tate's dead."

"She what? How? I was there two nights ago. She was fine."

"Aunt Mary found her. It's like she just dropped dead on the sun porch. Probably watering those goddamned plants. I told her I'd water them."

"Watering plants didn't kill her. She loved her plants."

"She asked me to come over last night. I told her I couldn't. What the fuck's wrong with me?"

Hayden swallowed. She could give him a list of flaws, but this was hardly the right time. "She knows you loved her. Not going over one night didn't ruin that."

"Do you think she knew? Like knew she would die and wanted to see me?"

Hayden was wondering the same thing. Helen had seemed more down than usual. And all the stuff she said about her marriage. It was as if she was taking stock of her life, weighing it all out. But that was coincidence. She was chipper after a night with Lily and Cam.

"She was in a good mood when I was there. Her ankle hurt, but she was fine other than that. She even had me make her a gin and tonic."

Tag chuckled. "I usually take her the gin. She was always a closet drinker. It was our secret. Twisting the ankle must have forced her out of her spirit closet."

"She was full of surprises, that's for sure."

"It's weird here, Hayden. I'm at the house and it's so damned wrong. I never imagined her gone. She's the one who keeps us straight. What the hell will we do without her?"

"You'll manage."

"Will I? I feel like my whole damned life is falling apart. It's all gone to shit."

"You've got Lily."

She could hear him take a deep breath over the phone. "That little girl is amazing. Would you bring her over? Let her stay with me tonight?"

"Most certainly. You're at Helen's?"

"Yeah. My mom is on her way up. She'll be happy to see Lily. Maybe Cam will leave his ugly-ass dog here for her. I bet she'd like him."

"She met him. Cam was washing him and Lily had to help."

There was no response from Tag. Not even the sound of breathing. After a bit, Hayden asked, "You still there?"

"Yeah. I'm here. Could you just bring my daughter over?"

Hayden cringed at the emphasis he put on _my daughter_. Her first thought was—moving forward will be a problem. But then she reminded herself that Tag was under stress right now. Everything would be fine, in the long run. "Yeah, no problem. I'll be there in a few minutes."

#  CHAPTER 23

Hayden held Lily's hand as she walked the child toward Helen's house. She'd explained to Lily that Grandma Tate had passed, but Hayden knew the child had no clue what death was. Fate had been good to them, as far as losing people went. As they approached the house, Lily's footsteps took on a bounce. An expectation. Hayden bit her lip and tried not to cry.

Stopping, she kneeled, so she was face-to-face with her little girl. She tucked a lock of the child's silky hair behind her ear. "Sweetheart, you understand that Grandma Tate isn't here anymore, right?"

"I know, silly. She went to heaven. She told me already."

Hayden swallowed and nodded. "She told you she was going to heaven?"

"Yeah, this morning."

"Sweetie, you didn't see her this morning."

"Yes, I did. I was sleeping, and she woke me up. She told me she loved me and that she made me a present before she went to heaven."

"Well, I think that was a dream, sweetheart."

"Of course, it was a dream; since she's an angel now."

Hayden kissed her cheek. It was smooth, soft, unblemished.

"Can we go get my present now? I hope it's a blanky for Dolly. I asked her to make Dolly one."

"Honey, we agreed. It was just a dream."

Lily shook her head and smiled. "I know, Mommy. 'Member, I told you, Grandma Tate is an angel."

Hayden's throat tightened and her eyes stung. Who was she to argue against the presence of angels? She gave Lily a hug, scooping her off the ground and holding the child close to her as she made her way into the house.

The house felt hollow without Helen. The place was filled with people but felt empty. The buzz of conversation wafted from the kitchen and dining room. Hayden followed the sound. Tag met her in the doorway grabbing Lily and holding her so tight the little girl wiggled and looked at her mom with big eyes.

Hayden wrapped an arm around Tag. "You okay?"

He nodded, sniffing back tears. "I just wish I'd told her—"

"You can't think that." She lifted his chin until he had to look at her. "Listen to me. She knew how you felt about her. Heck, she knew you better than anyone in this world and she still loved you." Hayden regretted the words as soon as they left her mouth. Why did she add still?

Tag laughed and the breath she was holding turned into a smile. "I didn't mean the still. I just meant—"

"I get it, Hayden. I know I'm far from perfect. And you're right—I couldn't get anything by that old bird."

"And she obviously trusted you enough to share gin toasts with you."

Tag nodded. He relaxed his grip on Lily, kissing the top of her head. His lips lingered on his daughter's hair. "How you doing, Lily Pad?"

"I'm fine, Daddy. You sad?"

"Yeah, Daddy's sad."

Lily rested her head on his shoulder. "It'll be okay. Grandma Tate is in heaven. Her crest and all is better there."

"Her crest and all?" Tag laughed.

"She can have hot dogs in heaven now and it doesn't matter."

"Hot dogs? Oh, you mean her cholesterol?" Tag laughed. "Give me a hug, Princess."

Lily gave him a big hug.

"Nothing makes Daddy happier than Lily hugs."

Seeing Tag relaxed and smiling, Hayden saw her opportunity to leave. "I better go." Hayden kissed Lily's cheek. "You be good for Daddy."

"I will."

"Why don't you stay?" Tag asked.

Hayden scanned the room of people behind Tag's shoulder. Cam's parents were there, staring holes into her. A few cousins were also watching as if they expected fireworks of one sort or another between them. Missing was Cam. It was possible he was out in the backyard. The kitchen door was open and the light from the porch cast shadows over the people in the back.

"I'm tired. How about you and Lily toast her for me?"

"All right. Thank you for bringing me my girl." Tag gave Lily a belly poke. Lily giggled and folded over like a push puppet. Tag laughed. He turned to Hayden with the kind of smile she hadn't seen in years. Relaxed. Appreciative. He gave her an impromptu sidelong hug planting a kiss on her before letting her go. As he stepped back, she spotted the back of Cam's dark head as he ducked out of the house. By the time she made it outside, he was gone.

* * *

Cam made it to Grandma Tate's in time to help the guys from the funeral home load her body into the hearse. French Fry whined, but he no longer tried to stop the men from entering the house.

Once she was gone, the one place he felt at home was suddenly cold and foreign. His mother cried, loudly, soggy with tears and full of regret for all the things she never did for Grandma Tate. And for all the times she was sharp with her.

Cam patted her on the shoulder. "Let it go. She knew you loved her."

"Did she? I'm not sure she did."

He tried not to sound as annoyed as he felt. His grandma was dead, what the hell difference did any of this matter now? Crying over what you did or didn't do? How did that help a damn thing? The place was no longer a haven; it was a tomb. The warm air pumping out of the heater vents was suffocating. He needed air.

"I'm going to pick up some pizza. You want anything?" he asked.

"Pizza?" His mother seemed confused by the concept.

"Yeah, pizza. All these people coming over to be with Dad and Aunt Connie. They could use food."

"And beer," his mom said with a heavy sigh, blotting her nose. "Vorelli's don't gather without beer."

Cam nodded. "May as well. Keep them happy so they don't feed on each other."

"Oh Cam, how can you say such things about your own family? They're good people."

Cam dug his keys out of his pocket. His mother defending his dad's family, that was a new concept. "You need anything else?"

Mary shook her head. "I'm just so shocked. This feels surreal."

Cam shivered at the memory of the two guys from the funeral home rolling the gurney with Grandma Tate's body to the hearse. They grumbled and bitched about the wheels getting hung up in the old lady's shag carpet. To them, she was just another nuisance during another day on the job. There was no reverence. They didn't know how she made perfect pancakes, crisp-edged and covered in the syrup she'd warm in a pan on the stove.

He really didn't want to be here. Not today. Not anymore.

"I'll be back." He gave his mom a peck on the forehead and headed to the Blue Fox for the beer and pizza.

Brandy Beltran was working the bar. She gave him a nod and stuffed her hands in the back pockets of her jeans. "Hey Cam," she said. "You holding up all right?"

Cam nodded. "Word travels fast."

"Shelley was in here, uh, she was here for a beer and she told me about Helen."

Seating himself on a bar stool, he frowned. "She was here with Tag I take it?"

Brandy nodded.

"Sorry about that."

"You're sorry? I can't believe you're taking it so well. Aren't you and Shelley dating?"

"Broke up a while back. Keeping it friendly."

Brandy nodded. "That's what Tag and I are—friendly." She said friendly like it was a plague.

"He's an ass, Brandy."

"I know. I swear, I know. What's wrong with me?"

Cam gave her a grin. "You have tragically bad taste in men?"

"Ass," she laughed. She went to the fridge and grabbed him a beer. "On the house." She grabbed one for herself. "A toast to Helen. One helluva lady."

Cam clinked his bottle to hers before taking a drink. "Any chance the kitchen is open?"

"It is. What can I get you?"

"How about five extra-large pepperoni pizzas and an assortment of appetizers?"

Brandy scribbled the order on a notepad.

"And a few cases of beer, if you can spare it."

"Connie picked up a keg just a few minutes ago. My gift to the family."

"Thanks."

Brandy patted his hand then left through the swinging bar doors to the kitchen.

He leaned against the bar as he nursed his beer. By the time he finished, the food was done. Cam drove back to his grandma's. The driveway couldn't hold all the cars, so they were spilling out onto the quiet street he used to ride his bike up and down as a kid. Cam had to go three houses down to find a space. His Aunt Connie was getting out of her car across the street.

Connie shut her door, leaned against the car, and pulled out a cigarette. Her hands shook as she waved. Cam figured she was drumming up the gumption to face the emptiness. His Aunt Connie was several years older than his dad and unlike him, she remembered the day their parents died. The family always assumed it was this trauma that gave Connie her wanderlust and lack of focus.

"Brandy said you had the keg," Cam said. "I came to help."

"You're a good boy," she said, her voice gravelly from years of smoking and booze. "I don't care what everyone else says."

His aunt, dressed in ripped jeans and Harley tee, never seemed to change. Even her long curly hair was the same as when he was a kid. Timeless fashion, of a sort.

"You know, Cam," Connie said, "you should tell Tag now that he's divorced, he should take up with that Brandy. She's a good girl. Big ass, but still a good girl."

"Tag will figure things out for himself."

Connie laughed. "My son is a bigger dipshit than I am. He won't figure out a goddamned thing."

Cam didn't agree or disagree. He gave his aunt a hug. "Tell you what, I'll swap you food for booze. I've got pizza in my backseat."

"The keg's in my trunk. Ice and bucket is in the backseat."

Cam gave her one more squeeze before concentrating on the keg.

Finished setting it up, he stepped into the kitchen from the back door. As soon as he ducked under the low doorway, his heart stopped. There was Hayden. And Tag. Wrapped together with Lily between them, they looked less like they were newly divorced and more like a happy family.

Cam didn't even want to deal with that stab of guilt. Not today. The place was filling up with family, from great what-nots to the slew of cousins many times removed. Cam figured he could slip out with no one noticing, so he did.

Unfortunately, his apartment wasn't any more comforting with its bare, white walls. Tag's bags were still stacked in the kitchen. He must have gotten the call about Grandma Tate while he was moving out. Hopefully, he was still moving to the cabin and not back with Hayden. Cam grabbed a beer from the fridge and sat at the table, staring at the boxes and bags on his floor.

A swig later, his doorbell rang. He sighed. He wasn't in the mood for company, so he tried to ignore it. But whoever was at the door was relentless. He finished half his beer listening to the annoying chimes as his wanna-be guest rang the bell over and over.

"Son of a bitch." He slammed his bottle on the table. The ringing stopped, and he took a deep breath, relieved.

The door swung open. "What the hell, Cam? You okay?"

He sat up. "Hayden?"

She walked in and set her purse and coat on the table. "I rang the bell."

"I was ignoring it."

"It or me?"

"I'd never ignore you. I never dreamed it was you. I figured you'd stay with Tag tonight."

She settled herself on his lap and wrapped her arms around his neck. "Well, you figured wrong."

He rested his head on her shoulder. Maybe she should be with Tag and her daughter. Maybe he was a prick who should move on from here and stop interfering.

"You doing all right?"

His hands wrapped around her waist and he pulled her tighter to him. Her body was warm and smelled like fabric softener and sunshine. Slowly, he was okay with being a prick. "I'm much better now."

She kissed his cheek. Held him tighter. Running her fingers through his hair like he was a child needing soothed.

"The other day," Cam said, "when Mom called me about the twisted ankle, I had this stab of fear that it was end game then. I mean, I knew I wouldn't have the old girl forever. But then she got better and the last few days, staying with her, spending time with her... I started to think maybe she was invincible. I thought she was good for at least another decade."

"I don't think any of us saw this coming. She was too much a part of everything to ever imagine her gone from anything. I think everyone she met became part of her inner circle and she took care of you. She was the best. I know people say that when people pass, but where Helen was concerned, it's completely true. She truly was the best of us."

Cam felt the hot prick of tears behind his eyes. He nestled into her softness, holding her as close as he could. Her fingers moved from his hair to the muscles of his neck. Her hands felt small and soft against the tense muscles along his spine. Her cheek rested on the top of his head. "I love you, Cameron James."

He nodded. If he tried to speak, he feared he'd lose it. His emotions were as raw and irritated as a third-degree burn.

She said nothing more for a long time. She just held him.

After a while, she said, "If Helen taught me anything, it's that I don't want to wait until my life is half over to be happy and feel loved. I'm thinking her Vegas idea wasn't such a crazy one. You're my future. You and me... we will make ourselves our own happy family."

A tendril of hope spread from his heart to his body making him feel warm, a bit more relaxed. He hadn't realized he'd been as tense as if it was the final quarter and he was up by a field goal. As long as he didn't screw up, he could take a knee and let the clock wind down.

Slowly, the thrill of the win settled in.

"Am I scaring you?" Hayden's laugh was a little tight. "Were you pulling my leg when you suggested it on the phone?"

"I wasn't joking." The tears that threatened to humiliate him disappeared. He looked up at her, cupping her cheeks in his hands. "Nothing in this world could make me happier than a family with you." He brushed his thumbs against soft skin. "Damn, I love you. More than you could ever know."

She leaned into him, touching her forehead to his. "I think I have an idea."

He kissed her. Threading his hands through her hair, he held her to him. Pulling her closer.

Those soft hands left his neck and trailed down his shoulders, his arms, to his wrists. She pulled him to his feet. Peddling backward, she never let go, never broke eye contact. "Well, I could tell you how much I love you, but how about I show you how much?"

"I think that would be just be a f—freaking dream come true."

"Careful. I may not live up to the fantasy."

She was already better in reality. She looked sexy as hell. Each step taking her closer to his room, enticing him. Making his heart race and his mouth water.

#  CHAPTER 24

Outside the bedroom, Hayden paused. Was this what Cam needed? Or did he need more time to mourn? As if sensing her hesitation, he wrapped a hand around the back of her neck and pulled her in for a kiss. His lips were gentle. A slow exploration moving from her mouth to the hollow of her throat. Eyes closed, head tipped back, all thoughts beyond the feel of his lips on her skin and a strong, firm hand at the small of her back were lost. His other hand moved slowly into her hair holding her close.

Then he stopped. It took her brain a few seconds to recover and find some focus. "Is there something wrong?"

He stroked her cheek. "I need to be sure you're sure about this. If it's too soon or you're not ready, that's all right."

"I've never been more certain of anything in my life."

He didn't look completely convinced. He took a deep breath. "If you're just worried about me because of today... I'm all right."

She moved closer; so close her breasts rubbed against his chest. She could smell his cologne. "It is because of today. Today, I realized that every day I haven't been with you has been a day of my life wasted."

Lifting her off her feet, he carried her to his room and laid her down on his bed. Hayden held onto him, pulling him down with her. His body was hard against hers as he crushed her to him. A firm hand moved down her thigh to her knee, pulling her leg up his hip, tucking her closer to him. "I do want you, Hayden. More than anything I've ever wanted in my life."

"You're sure? No hesitation?"

He kissed her forehead. "My only worry is you regretting... anything. I don't want to do anything that could cause me to lose you."

She shook her head. "Never. You could never lose me. I love you."

He held her tighter. His lips trailed down her cheek to her ear. "I love you, too."

His words made her heart swell, sending tingles down every nerve and fiber of her body. Her hands slid down strong arms to his hips. As if responding to her touch, his body pressed even closer to hers. She slid her hands under his shirt. His skin was warm and smooth, his body hard. Muscles rippled under her hands.

As her hands explored, his breathing became unsteady, hot against her skin. He buried his face in the crook of her neck as if mustering control. "You're killing me. Your touch; the feel of you. So beautiful. So perfect."

"I want you, Cam." She touched his cheek, the stubble rough against her palm. He kissed her. It was a hard kiss, desperate as if the need to be with her was primal and as necessary as air or water. After years of being the problem, it felt good to be the solution. She wanted him. She wanted this.

He took a deep breath and pulled away, kneeling between her legs. He unbuttoned her jeans, kissing the newly exposed flesh. Her body arched and the sound that tore through her throat would have embarrassed her if she'd been paying any attention to anything beyond the feel of his body as it tempted and teased hers.

"Now, Cam. Please."

He leaned across her, pulling open the drawer of the nightstand. He grabbed a box of condoms, but it was empty. He threw it across the room.

"I don't care, if you don't." The worst-case scenario didn't scare her, like an animal in heat, it only made her want him more. From that moment, there was no pause. The need was too urgent. Somehow, between the two of them, their clothes ended up in a pile on the floor.

She clung to him. His hands slid down her hips cradling her against him as his body drove deep. Hayden closed her eyes burying her face into the crook of his neck, her lips brushing against the warmth of his skin tasting the salt of his sweat, inhaling the sweet, musky scent of their bodies. _This changes everything_. The thought brought tears to her eyes. She tightened her arms around him holding him closer. Closer. Until she was gasping for breath and digging her nails into his shoulders as her body tensed, then relaxed. He held her close as he rolled away, taking her with him, holding her body against his. She felt good. Beyond the physical feel of a body well satisfied, she felt safe, secured in warm strong arms.

#  CHAPTER 25

Cam woke the next morning with the dawn. The weak morning light stirred his brain and the memory of holding her, loving her. It felt like a dream. In his sleepy state, it felt too good to be real. He snapped to attention. Opening his eyes, seeing her there, dark hair spilling across her shoulder, wasn't enough. Gently, he brushed it away from her face. Her lips were slightly parted, eyes flickered under closed lids.

Leaning in, he brushed a kiss across her lips. "Love you," he whispered.

She smiled and stirred, snuggling into him. He held her close. Her warm, soft body lulling him back to sleep.

His phone rang, jarring him awake. He had to reach across Hayden to wrestle the phone from his pant's pocket. She woke, stretching as he answered his phone. He tried to concentrate on the conversation and not the outline of her body as she twisted and moved under the sheet. Thoughts of her under him preoccupied his mind.

"Are you even there?" His mother yelled over the phone.

He ran a hand over his eyes. "Yeah, I'm here. What is it?"

"Are you still in bed? It's almost ten."

"I was... yeah, I was sleeping."

"Well, we're here at the funeral home. Are you going to come help? Or do I have to deal with your dad and your Aunt Connie by myself? I swear, Connie is soused. She smells like bourbon and I'm pretty sure she's not outside smoking a regular cigarette."

"Let me grab a shower and I'll be right over."

He hung up the phone and turned to Hayden, pulling her into his arms. He kissed her, slid a hand down the small of her back down the curve of her ass.

"You're getting distracted. You need to go."

"I'm never in that big a hurry."

"Your mom sounded pretty upset. Your family needs you."

"And I need you," he said sliding his hands into her hair, kissing her.

She straddled him, legs wrapped around his waist, soft breasts pressed against his chest. He rolled her over and loved her slowly, deliberately. The rest of the world could wait. He'd waited too long to let go now.

* * *

When he got out of the shower, Hayden was dressed. His room was tidied up and his bed was made. Cam grinned, but refrained from pointing out that she was the first woman he'd ever had clean up the place afterward.

"What are you grinning about?" Hayden asked.

"You made my bed."

Hayden looked at the bed as if she hadn't realized what she'd done. "Was that weird?"

"No, it's totally Hayden and I think you're damned-near perfect."

"Near?"

"You're dressed. That lost you perfection points."

Hayden rolled her eyes at him, but still gave him a hug. "You better get going. Your mom is probably getting worried."

"When isn't she worried?"

"You going to be okay?"

"I'll be fine. I've got you."

She hugged him tighter. "That you do."

He dropped Hayden off at her house and watched her walk inside, amazed at his luck. She turned at the door and waved before he drove off. At the funeral home, Aunt Connie was the first to greet him. She was outside smoking. Contrary to his mom's assessment, it was a regular Pall Mall. The bourbon on her breath when she grabbed him for a hug was for real.

"Hey, my favorite nephew." She patted him on the back.

"Hey, Aunt Con. You doing okay?"

She nodded. "Did you hear about Lily?"

He shook his head, instantly imagining something bad happening to the little girl overnight. Did they miss a phone call? He rubbed his chin.

"She talked to Grandma Tate the morning she died. She told Lily she had her a gift."

"Really?" Cam breathed a sigh. "That's—"

"Oh, you're like the rest of them. They thought the little girl was just remembering a dream, but I found the gift. It was in Grandma's room on the rocking chair. It was the blanket Lily wanted. She also left you a box."

"A box? Anything in it?"

"Nope. Just an empty box. You'll have to ask Lily what it means. She's the one she visited."

Cam wasn't a believer in that sort of thing, but he wasn't going to be a doubter, especially not now. Aunt Connie struggled with keeping it together during the best of times. If believing in something got her through this, what harm could it do? "If anyone got to be an angel on their first day in heaven, it would be Grandma Tate."

His mother stepped outside. "Cam? What are you out here for? We have decisions to make in here."

Aunt Connie whispered, "Your mother has the whole funeral all planned out, and she gets pissed if you say a goddamned thing different. I don't know why any of us but her need to be here."

Cam grinned. He gave his aunt's arm a squeeze and headed into the funeral home. He sat at the table with the funeral director and his parents. His mom had a notebook full of suggestions—all the way down to the Bible verses. Cam grabbed it from her and flipped through it. "Looks good to me. I say we go with your plan."

That was the wrong approach. His mother burst into tears. "No one cares about this like they should. It's the last thing we will ever do for Helen and you guys are treating it like it's just one big nuisance."

Cam took a deep breath and patted her hand. "You're right. Where do we start?"

His mother dabbed her eyes with a tissue. "It's like everyone just wants to get it over with. Just hurry up and bury her."

"No, Mom. I was just looking at what you have and it seems like you've put a lot of thought in this. Your plans look good."

"I didn't come here to boss everyone—"

After an hour of back and forths over flowers and crap, the door opened and Tag walked in. He looked like hell. His skin looked bloodless like he was in shock, and his hands shook. Cam assumed he was strung out on something—using Grandma Tate's death as an excuse to get himself stoned out of his mind. Connie jumped from her seat and wrapped an arm around him.

"Tag, honey. Come sit. Cam, go get Tag some coffee. And there are bagels on a tray next to the coffeemaker. Get him one of those too." Mary felt Tag's forehead. "Maybe you have low blood sugar from the stress of it all."

Tag stared at Cam but said nothing. He kept his eyes set on Cam as he pulled a doll out of his pocket and slid it across the table to Lily who was coloring in her coloring book, completely oblivious to all the drama at the table. The doll got her attention. Her eyes lit up, and she squealed. "Princess Maggie. Thank you, Daddy."

"I got her for you days ago. Evidently, your mother forgot."

At the mention of the girl's mother, Cam went for the coffee and bagels. It wasn't that he felt remorse or even a shred of guilt, but he couldn't help but feel a bit of pity for his cousin—he had just lost two of the best women in his world.

#  CHAPTER 26

Cliff Vorelli wasn't the most educated guy in a room, but he sure wasn't a fool. As soon as Tag stepped into the room and sat down at the table, Cliff knew there was something wrong. The boy was pale as a ghost and shaking like a leaf. Cliff's first thought was that Tag figured out that Cam knew he was banging Shelley. Maybe that had him shitting his pants.

Cliff looked from Tag to Cam and had to feel more than a bit of pride that his son not only stood a head taller and a foot broader in the shoulders, but Cam was also quicker. Poor Tag wouldn't even be able to run from him. No, if Cam decided to knock his head in, there wasn't much Tag could physically do to stop him. Meeting Shelley openly at the Blue Fox probably wasn't the best idea. It was almost like Tag wanted it to get back to Cam. To get even?

But get even for what?

Cliff cracked his neck and sat straighter in his seat. Slowly, he realized both Hayden and Cam were missing last night. He hadn't listened to the rumors about Cam and her. He knew how his son felt about the girl, but he'd never acted on it. Sure, Cam had feelings for her, but she belonged to Tag.

"You okay, baby?" Connie patted Tag's arm.

"I'm fine," Tag said, but his jaw clenched.

"Where's Hayden?"

Tag wiped at his forehead. "I told you, Mom. We're divorced."

"I know you said she left, but I figured she would change her mind."

Tag shook his head as he stared holes into Cam's back. "Seems she's found herself her own distraction."

Connie growled. "Bitch is cheating on you?"

"Drop it," Cliff said. "This isn't the time or the place."

Cam brought Tag the cup of coffee. His stare was hard. Tag squirmed in his seat.

Cliff took a long suck of air. "Cam. Go get my coffee out of my truck. I can't drink this watered-down shit."

Cam gave him a look but headed for the door.

"I've got to take a piss." Cliff headed toward the bathroom, then slipped out a side door. He caught up with Cam in the alley.

"If you were coming out, why did you send me for your coffee?"

"I wanted to talk to you... without them in there."

Cam handed him the coffee and shoved his hands into his jean pockets. "What is it?"

"Where were you last night?" Cliff tried to ask without sounding confrontational, but Cam immediately ruffled. His back went stiff and his mouth made a hard-line. "I only ask," Cliff added quickly, "because I know you were close with your grandma and I wanted to make sure you were all right."

Cam nodded, but his body remained stiff. "I was fine."

"I worried about you being all alone. Didn't even have that ugly mutt to keep you company."

Cam nodded.

"At first, I figured you were with Shelley, so I didn't call or drop by. But then Tag left round midnight to meet up with her. Did you know he was seeing her?"

Cam shrugged. "She's an adult."

"So you two are over?"

"We're friends."

"Friends, huh? Any new friends?"

Cam's eyes narrowed. "If you've got something you want to say, just say it. Stop beating around the damned bush."

"No need to get pissed. I was just checking in. Making sure you were all right. You know, is there anything I need to know?"

"Nope."

Cliff took a deep breath of the fall air. His gut was restless, and it wasn't the shitty coffee.

"Are we done here?" Cam asked.

Cliff nodded. "Yeah, let's get back in there before your mother throws a conniption fit."

Cliff followed Cam inside. No one noticed the two men returned together—through the exit door. Mary never paid attention to anything where he was concerned. Connie was loaded. And Tag looked like he was sitting on a beehive. Boy was nervous as a whore in church.

Tag wasn't a stupid fella. Cliff figured he'd probably put it together too that his ex and Cam were missing all night. Probably waiting to take his swing.

Which would be a moronic move on Tag's part. He'd better have a talk with the boy. Suggest he back off a lost cause. If Cam wanted the girl, and she wanted him, Tag wasn't going to stop it. Not without getting his ass kicked. Besides, wasn't it better to walk away? Cliff could tell the boy from experience that you don't want to stay married to someone who doesn't love you. It was like a cancer to the soul.

That was what he'd do, he decided. He'd talk some sense into Tag. Before him and Cam came to loggerheads over it. When his son wanted something, he got it. How many other people go from a small town to the NFL? Cam made things happen. If he finally decided to go for the girl, he was going to get the girl. Cam wasn't the sort to be happy going through life getting by on beer, borrowed broads, and bullshit.

Cliff grinned as he played with the words in his head. Borrowed broads, beer, and bullshit. That sounded better. Might make a good coffee mug. Or a tee shirt. But who the hell was he kidding. People wouldn't get it. Mary would say it's offensive, and that she was a fool to marry an idiot and think she could be happy with him.

Cliff realized the entire time he was thinking, he'd been staring at Tag. His stares must have made the boy even more nervous. He was sweating so hard, he could smell the tequila oozing from his pores. Tag pulled at the collar of his uniform. When he did, Cliff spotted fresh scratches on his neck and wrist. Like he'd just been in a cat fight.

It was Cliff's turn to sweat. Maybe he'd already wondered where his ex was last night and addressed the issue before coming here. It would explain the delay. And the scratches. Cliff frowned. If Tag went toe to toe with the girl because she'd been with Cam, his son wouldn't overlook it. Even if the girl was just a piece of ass, if she got slapped around for it, Cam wouldn't let it slide.

The room felt smaller. He needed to nip this thing in the bud. No need to waste time burying the dead when the living were fucking up. The funeral home director asked about flowers. Cliff said, "Daisies were Mom's favorite."

"Daisies are a cheap weed of a flower," Mary said, shaking her head.

"Then get whatever in the hell you want." He needed a beer. His eyes settled back on Tag, who refused to make eye contact with him.

_Goddamnit boy, what the fuck did you do?_

Cliff leaned closer, studying him. There were fresh stains on the cuffs of his sleeves. Cliff took a deep breath and let it out slowly trying to stay calm. He had to keep his poker face. No sense getting feathers ruffled until he knew what was going on. He was pretty sure that was blood splatter on the boy's sleeves, so it was tough to stay calm. Hayden was a tiny thing. If Tag drew blood, he could have killed her.

"I need a beer." Cliff stood. He turned to the funeral director and said, "Whatever Mary says, that's what we'll do. I need to get out of here."

As he left, he could hear Mary bitching and crying about how big a jerk he was and how he didn't love or respect anyone. _Whatever._ Let her think he was a loser, he had to verify the girl was okay.

He drove straight to Tag and Hayden's and knocked on the door. No answer, so he knocked harder, damn near making the door bow with his efforts.

"Damn it." He opened the door and yelled. Still no answer.

Standing in the living room, he heard a kitten meow. He followed the sound toward the kitchen. He found Hayden in the dining room lying on the floor, shards of busted dishes and shattered glassware scattered all around her. Cliff knelt beside her. "Come on, God, she needs to be okay." He held his breath as he felt for a pulse. She stirred when he touched her wrist.

"Hayden, you okay?"

Her eyelashes fluttered and her eyes opened slowly. Awareness must have hit her then because she sat up fast, probably too fast. She must have gotten dizzy because she dropped her hand in the glass to balance herself.

"Christ, be careful." He reached out to steady her. "What the hell happened?"

Hayden tucked her robe tighter. Cliff looked away while she composed herself. Once she was decent, he scooped her up and carried her to the couch.

"I must admit, you're my least-likely knight in shining armor. I mean, I never would've guessed—"

"I know what you mean." He looked her over. She looked like hell. "Did Tag do this?"

She nodded.

"Because of Cam?"

She bit her lip and then nodded. "When I'd imagined all the different ways Tag would find out about me and Cam and how he'd react, this never made the list."

Cliff touched her cheek. It was swelling. The blood up the sleeve must have come from her lip. It was busted. Tag had to punch her at least twice. What the hell was wrong with him? "Any other injuries other than the punches to the face?"

Hayden cradled her arm. Or was clutching her side. "My arm hurts."

She told him about the fight. As the reality of what happened sunk in, he wanted to slap the snot out of his dipshit nephew.

"I didn't even know Tag was home. I came out of the bathroom and he was sitting on the bed holding the doll he'd ask me to give to Lily. At first, I thought nothing of it. But then I realized it must have fallen out of my purse at Cam's apartment. Once I realized he'd figured it out, I tried to think of an excuse, but then I decided there was no point lying to him. My life is none of his business. I have a right to my own life, you know?"

"I suppose lyin' woulda kept you from getting your ass kicked."

Hayden nodded. "I honestly didn't think he'd touch me. I figured he'd have the good sense to fear Cam." She looked down at her battered body. "I guessed wrong."

"Yeah, dumb shit shoulda known better. He'll probably get schooled now."

"I told him—fine you know. Now, get out." Hayden fidgeted with the cuff of her robe. "But he wouldn't get out, so I tried to leave instead. As I walked out of the bedroom, he grabbed my arm and jerked me back, twisting it. I told him I would scream, but he didn't care. I've never seen him so mad. He kept screaming at me to tell him what happened and he kept twisting my arm. I thought it would snap."

Cliff shook his head.

"So, I told him I loved Cam, and that I wanted to be with him. He wouldn't believe that this was... well, that we hadn't been cheating, and I lost my temper. I told him we'd had a thing going on for years and years and he was just too stupid to figure it out."

Cliff nodded. "And then he flipped out?"

"Totally psycho. He pushed me, I fell into the rocker before hitting the floor. I got up, and I tried to run out of the house, but he caught me in the dining room and he threw me into the China cupboard. Then he slapped me in the mouth, I could taste the blood. I tried to get his hands off me, but I couldn't. I yelled, and he punched me in the face and everything went black. Then you showed up."

"Why Cam? Any other guy and Tag probably wouldn't have cared."

"I love Cam."

Cliff sighed. "Cam is going to kill him."

"We won't tell him."

"What do we tell him? You were in a car wreck?"

"I look that bad?"

"No offense, honey, but you look like you went ten rounds in the ring and got your ass handed to you."

"I did. One punch and all I remember is a bolt of lighting going through my brain and then you saying my name. I maybe landed one slap, at best."

"Christ. I better call an ambulance," Cliff said.

"I'm okay," she said.

"He only punched you the one time?"

Hayden nodded. "That's all I remember."

"He didn't... hurt you anywhere else?"

"My leg from the rocker. And my side hurts. It must have been from the fall or the cabinet."

"You could have a concussion. Cam could tell." He looked over. "Let's get you cleaned up a bit." He went to the kitchen and returned with a bag of frozen shoestring fries. He placed the bag of fries gently against the sore spot on her jaw. "Keep that there. It will help with the swelling."

Hayden held the bag of frozen fries against her jaw. Cliff lifted her foot. He pulled a multi-tool off the holder attached to his belt. "Looks like you've got some glass in this foot."

"Figures," she said. "Busted all the glassware and dishes from our wedding. How appropriate."

He flipped the tool into a pair of plyers and pulled out pieces of glass from her foot. "Stupid little son of a bitch. What the hell was he thinking?"

"He was mad."

"He will feel mad, real soon."

"I can't let Cam do that. I'll call Chief Mitchell."

Cliff pulled a pair of glasses out of his shirt pocket put them on. He checked her arm. "What the hell?"

"I think it's where I hit the floor."

"And the little bastard just left you there?" Cliff decided he might beat the little bastard himself. "Christ on a cross." He pulled the shards of glass from her arm. "Cam's going to kill him. I need to get you out of here. Your fag friend—"

"Mark? His name is Mark, and he's not gay."

"Yeah, him." Cliff felt up her arm with his fingers. "I'll drive you up there."

"I can't. I'm not leaving Lily."

"I'll send her up with Cam later."

Hayden snorted. "Do you seriously think Tag will let Cam take Lily anywhere?"

"What Tag thinks doesn't rightly matter. And sending Lily with Cam is the perfect excuse to get him out-of-town fast. Then, when he's there, you keep him there until he calms down."

"Is he upset?"

Cliff looked up at her over the rim of his glasses. "He doesn't know. Not yet, at least. But we won't exactly be able to hide it. And once he sees you, he's gonna to lose his mind."

"Do I look that bad?"

Cliff grimaced. "It's just the principle of it. A man doesn't beat on a lady. And he sure as hell doesn't beat on a gal another guy loves unless he's ready to dance. Tag has to know Cam will kill him for this."

"He wouldn't do that. Not literally," Hayden said. "I'll talk to him. He'll listen."

"You help me get my boy up to Mark's, and you keep him there in whatever velvet prison you have to use. Don't let him come back here."

"But what about his job?"

"He doesn't need that job. Four years in the NFL? He's in no need of cash. Unlike most dumbasses with quick money, Cam saved his. He knew an injury could end the gravy train at any time, like it did."

"But still. It's not exactly fair to him. I'll call Chief Mitchell. He was helpful last time."

Cliff pulled off his glasses. The jowls under his chin shook. "This happened before? And Mitchell knew? God damn ridiculous. I swear to God, they're all crooked as a dog's hind leg. Any other place but Hazelton, Tag would have been off the force years ago. The drinking... the drugs. Now, beating on his damned wife. He has no business carrying a badge. But he does, because they look the other way. They protect him and they'll keep protecting him, so you need to get the fuck out of here before it's my boy they're dicking with."

Hayden nodded slowly. "I'll go. I'll get my shoes."

"Might want to get dressed."

Hayden pulled the soft fabric of her robe closed. "Oh yeah, and some clothes."

She stood on tender feet. They hurt, but not as bad as she'd imagined. Grabbing a pair of yoga pants from a laundry basket, she went to pull them on and realized she had glass in her thigh and her hip. She grabbed a pair of tweezers from the medicine cabinet and started pulling out pieces of glass with shaking hands. She tried to calm herself. Tag would never come back, not with Cliff here. So, why wouldn't her hands stop shaking?

There was a knock on the front door. Hayden's heart raced. She heard Cliff's footsteps through the hall and took a deep breath. It was probably another neighbor with a bereavement casserole. That was surely it, but she reached over and locked the bathroom door—just to be on the safe side.

#  CHAPTER 27

Cam knew his dad was getting antsy with the funeral arrangements and his mother's attitude. He actually felt bad for the guy. The woman who raised him was dead and his mom was hijacking the occasion with her drama. Once the funeral was planned, he left and went to look for his dad. When he saw his truck parked outside Hayden's he was instantly pissed. What was his dad doing?

His knock on the door to the house was perfunctory. He swung it open at the same time his knuckles hit the wood. Cliff practically ran up the hall to meet him. They collided in the hall. Cliff grabbed him by the shoulders and held onto him. "Listen to me," his dad said. "Tag... did a stupid thing. He totally deserves to get his ass beat, but you will keep your shit together. You hear me?"

All kinds of scenarios passed through his mind. He tried to step around his dad. He needed to see Hayden—assure himself she was all right. His dad didn't move, so he tried to push him out of the way. Cliff stood firm grabbing Cam in a steely grip. "Listen to me, Cam. We'll deal with this, but we'll do it smart. You hear me? Nothing half-cocked."

"Where's Hayden?"

"She's in the bathroom."

"Did he hurt her?"

Cliff took a deep breath. "She's—she should see a doctor. He beat her up pretty bad. But you will help nothing losing your temper."

"Why are you here? Did Tag call you? Are you protecting him?"

"Hell no, he didn't call me. Damn it, I can read that boy like a book. He walked into the funeral home looking pale as a sheet, I knew he did something. You didn't seem to give a shit that Tag was boning the girl who is supposedly your girlfriend, so I figured you had someone else. Then I saw the scratches on his neck and I knew you and Hayden were both missing from the house last night and I put two and two together. I didn't want to make a big deal out of things, but I had to see if the girl was okay. So, I said I was going for a beer and I came over here."

"You gonna let go of me so I can check on her?"

"I'm just warning you—she looks bad, but she says she's okay. I swear to God, I may beat his ass myself. I was getting ready to take her to the hospital then to Mark's, but she wanted to change clothes."

"So, at what point were you going to call me?"

"Once she was safe up in Pittsburgh."

"That's bullshit. When it comes to her, you call me first." Cam jerked his arm free.

"I would call you first. If I thought I could trust you to use your damned head."

Cam headed for the bathroom. He knocked on the door, imagined the worst scenarios, and kicked it open. Hayden jumped backward, dropped the tweezers, and knocked over the toothbrush holder on the counter with a flailing arm. "Cam?"

"I imagined you passed out. Maybe having a seizure. Why didn't you answer?"

"You didn't exactly give me a chance."

He looked back at the splintered door frame and sighed. "I'm sorry. I'll fix the door."

She placed her hand over her heart. "You scared the hell out of me."

His eyes settled on the blood and the bruises. His body went cold, numb. If Tag had been there, he'd snap his neck. Her hands shook. She'd already been through hell, now he was scaring the shit out of her. His dad was finally right about something. No need going off half-cocked. He took a deep breath and tried to calm down. Hayden needed him.

"I'm sorry." He stepped closer to her. "I didn't mean to scare you. My dad had me nervous. I wasn't sure I'd find you standing."

"I'm okay." She bent down to pick up the toothbrushes. He beat her to it.

"Sit."

She sat on the edge of the bathtub.

He took the washcloth from her and dipped it in the warm, running water. He wrung it out and wiped away the blood. She had small cuts all over her arms.

"I fell in glass."

He nodded. With the blood gone, the bruises were visible. Dark bruises on her upper arms and a circular bruise on her left forearm and swelling at the elbow. He pressed his thumb into the tendons of the elbow and she flinched. He assumed Tag had twisted it as he held her.

He was going to kill him. Make him bleed.

"Did he shove you through a window, or what?"

"I fell into the china hutch."

"Fell or pushed?"

"Pushed." Her words were quiet.

Lips pressed tight, he said nothing while he grabbed a washcloth and helped wipe away the blood. He ran his fingers across her jaw. The bruising there was already visible. A punch that hard to the jaw surely knocked her out. "Did you lose consciousness?"

"A little."

He grunted. A little was a whole fucking lot. He frowned at her and took his phone out of his pocket and turned on the flashlight. He held chin gently as he used the light to check her pupils. There were no obvious signs of a concussion, but it was best a doctor saw her to be sure and to get it documented. The legal route made more sense, though it wouldn't feel as good as hunting him down and breaking him in half like a twig.

"Cam," she said, caressing his cheek. "Promise me you won't do anything."

Seemed his love was a mind reader. He smiled at her, kissed her forehead. "I won't do anything stupid; I swear."

"Good. I don't want to lose you."

"You will never lose me." He wanted to kiss her, but knew it would hurt, so he brushed back her hair smoothing the tangles. "Let's get you dressed and packed up."

She nodded. He followed her to the bedroom and watched as she dressed. How far had Tag gone? He was afraid to ask, so he looked for signs. As she pulled on a pair of yoga pants, she said, "Nothing happened, Cam. He was just mad, and I said some things that really put him over the edge."

His jaw clenched. "I don't give a fuck if you called his mother a whore, he can't put his hands on you."

She went to put on a bra and flinched. He took a better look at the arm. The swelling was increasing and she was losing range of motion fast. It needed X-rayed. He helped her dress. "We need to get you to the ER."

"I'm fine."

"No argument."

She nodded. "Probably a good idea to have it on record."

"You going to file charges?"

"Of course."

"Good." He helped her put on a cardigan, pulled her close and kissed the soft skin of her neck.

A knock on the doorway got his attention. It was his dad. "I got the glass cleaned up. I'll go get Lily. Mary and me, we'll take her to get something to eat." He nodded at Hayden. "You taking her on up to Pittsburgh? We can bring the girl there once you guys get a doc's all clear."

"I'll take her to my apartment."

"You should just—" Cliff said.

"Tag won't be a problem anymore," Cam said.

"Damn it." Cliff shook his head. "There's no good goddamned reason to stay here. You know how this stuff goes 'round here."

"I can handle it."

"Maybe—" Hayden mumbled against his chest.

He smiled and smoothed back her hair to reassure her. "It'll be fine."

"I have a bad feeling," Hayden said.

"Probably a concussion. Sit," Cam ordered. Hayden sat on the edge of the bed. He grabbed the suitcase from the closet she'd used all those months ago and started filling it.

"Well, shit," Cliff said. He made eye contact with Hayden. Hayden shrugged. Cam was getting pissed. Hayden looked like hell and didn't need the added worry from his dad, who was probably trying to protect Tag. He shut the closet door with more than a little vigor and it slammed.

Cliff sighed. "You go on and get her to a doctor. I'll go get Lily."

"Thank you, Mr. Vorelli. For everything."

"Sorry for, well, all that. And if you need anything..."

"You'll be one of the first guys I call."

Cam looked from Hayden to his dad. She gave him a grateful smile. He couldn't help but think Hayden was part miracle worker. His father looked genuinely concerned for another human being.

#  CHAPTER 28

At the ER, the doctor, a young guy, immediately asked Cam to return to the waiting room. As soon as he left, the doctor extended a hand to Hayden in greeting. "Dr. Malfi. And you are, Mrs.—"

"Hayden is fine."

"Okay, Hayden. Was that your husband?"

"No, he's a friend." Hayden's cheeks flushed red. Was the doctor going to judge her too? Tell her she deserved to get her ass beat? "I'm divorced," she added quickly, possibly too quickly.

Dr. Malfi set her chart on the counter and gave her a long look. "So, is the ex having trouble adjusting or is this damage compliments of your new friend? Or are you going to try to convince me you walked into a doorframe?"

Hayden chuckled, though it wasn't funny. Or shouldn't be funny. She was now a statistic, part of the X number of women abused this year. Dr. Malfi seemed so sincere in his concern that the shame she felt eroded. Tag was the one who should be ashamed. "Honestly, I have walked into doorframes, but not this time. This is 100 percent my ex not at all happy with me moving my life forward."

"What a peach. I'm shocked you divorced him. The new guy... better? Or cut from the same cloth?"

Hayden smiled. "Better. Much better." The doctor didn't look convinced, so Hayden explained, "Cam and I have been friends since grade school. He's a good guy. One of the best."

Dr. Malfi gave her a sober look. "I've found women often leave one jerk for another."

"Not Cam. He'd die before he'd ever hurt me."

Dr. Malfi nodded, looking content with her answer. He stood and pulled on a pair of latex gloves. "Let's have a look. Then, I assume you'll want me to call a police officer to take a statement?"

"Is there any way I could talk to a state trooper? My ex is a police officer for Hazelton."

"I could call Chief Mitchell?"

In her gut, she still trusted the chief. He was always a kind man. She nodded, but then she thought of Cliff's warning not to trust any of them. "No. If it's okay, could I please talk to a state trooper?"

* * *

At his apartment, Cam helped her inside like she was a cracked piece of glass that could shatter at any second. Inside the doorway, she put her good arm around him and kissed him. "I'm okay. X-rays, CT scan—all good. Nothing is broken and the bruises will heal."

He ran a hand in her hair and massaged the back of her neck. His touch felt good, so comforting after such a horrible day.

"It should never have happened," Cam said. "I should've known. Should have predicted. Hell, my dad caught on before I did. I just thought Tag was hung over."

"It's over." She leaned in against him. "I could use a bath. Do you mind?"

"Of course not." He took her by the hand and led her to his bathroom. He got her a fresh towel and washcloth. "I'll go get your suitcase from the car."

Once he was gone, Hayden started the water. The sling was in her way. She tried to unhook the plastic latch, but she couldn't manage it one-handed. She heard Cam come back. Relief washed over her. She didn't realize how tense she felt with him simply walking out to the car and leaving her here alone. She told herself to be calm. Tag would never come here.

"Cam," she called to him and he was there in an instant. She smiled. "You have a great response time."

"I was expecting a sexy naked lady in my tub. Who wouldn't run to see that?"

A smile spread across her face. "Well, you would have, but I seem to be stuck in this contraption."

Cam gently unlatched the sling and slid it over her arm. "Need some help with those pants, little lady?" He gave her a sly grin.

"Aren't you chivalrous?"

"Your knight in shining armor, baby."

She caressed his cheek, memorizing the feel. From the coarse stubble to the slight twitch of muscle as he swallowed. "That you are. Now, would you help me get naked?"

His hands were tender and patient as he helped her strip down. With every scrape, cut, and bruise revealed, there was an increase in tension in his demeanor. Jaw set, eyes hardened into a glare—he looked a bit scary. She tried to think of a way to convince him that everything was okay. She kissed him. Holding his face in her hands, she reminded him, "It's over. It's time to move on. Promise me we can move on from this."

His face softened. "Of course, we're moving on. I love you, babe."

Her eyes stung, but they were tears of relief. Happiness and hope.

He shut off the water and helped her into the bath. She went to clip her hair up to keep it dry, but the twisted arm wouldn't cooperate. Cam took the clips from her and took chunks of hair and started clipping it on top of her head. "You have a ton of hair. Where do you clip it all?" He grabbed a few more clips and added them to the growing mountain of hair. Hayden imagined she looked like a dark-haired Marie Antionette after a week-long bender.

Cam soaped up a washcloth and washed her back and arms. It was more relaxing than the best professional massage. Hayden pulled her knees to her chest and rested her cheek on them. He washed and rinsed until the water cooled. He handed her the washcloth and kissed her shoulder. "I'll let you finish up and I'll get you a change of clothes. I'm not sure what I grabbed..."

"Just whatever."

He nodded and stood to leave.

"Love you," she said as he paused in the doorway.

His phone buzzed. He pulled it out of his pocket. "Yeah... okay... we're here... at the apartment." Cam frowned. "Things are fine... she talked to a state trooper, and he will make sure it gets turned over to internal affairs... I'm calm, for now. If you keep harping on this shit, I may not stay calm... Yeah, see you in a minute."

"Your parents?"

"My dad. Christ, I wish he'd quit with this get out of town shit."

"I think he's just worried about you."

"Well, he needs to relax. He's never given a shit before."

Hayden tried to stand. Cam was quick to grab her arm and steady her as she climbed out. She tried to dry one-armed, but it was a painful process, literally. Cam took over. She felt ridiculous, but her body hurt more now than when Tag was beating on her, so she accepted the help. She dropped the subject of his dad. That was a relationship that wouldn't be set to rights in a single conversation. But she thought Tag's temper and behavior crossed a line even Cliff Vorelli couldn't ignore. If that was one good thing that came out her getting her ass kicked, then it was that. Surely Cliff realized his son was twice the man Tag could ever hope to be.

Cam sorted through her clothes until he found some kitten pajama pants and a comfy sweatshirt. He helped her dress, copping a few feels. "For my troubles," he said with a wink and a kiss on her cheek. Then he slipped the sling back over her arm, adjusting the tension in the straps until she was as comfortable as a woman with a bruised-up body and a bum arm could be. By the time they finished, there was a knock at the front door. Cam went to answer it.

A dog barked. French Fry's claws clicked across the hardwood floors. Lily's voice carried through the house. "Hiya, Cam. I had ice cream. With sprinkles. Lots and lots of sprinkles. Uncle Cliff said I could use the whole bowl if I wanted."

Hayden bit her lip. Her little girl was such a happy girl. Life was good, as long as there were sprinkles or kittens to distract her when her parents couldn't keep their shit together. What would she tell her baby when she saw the bruises and cuts? _Everything is fine, sweetie... Daddy just kicked my ass...._

#  CHAPTER 29

When Hayden stepped out of the bedroom with her lips pressed tight and eyes glassy with tears, Cam frowned. He wasn't sure what she was thinking. Embarrassment? Pain?

Lily's squeals interrupted his thoughts. She spotted her mom and darted for her colliding into Hayden with so much force it almost sent the two of them tumbling backward. Hayden winced, but she didn't complain.

"I missed you, Mommy. Where were you?" Lily didn't give her mother time to answer the first question before being distracted by the wounds on Hayden's face. Lily touched the red welts and bruises on her mom's jaw. "Mommy, what happened to your face?"

Hayden looked like she might throw up. She swallowed and blinked rapidly. "I... uh..."

"Your mom didn't wear her seat belt," Cam said behind Lily. "You should always wear your seat belt."

Lily touched tiny fingers to the bruise at her mom's lip. "Why didn't you wear your seat belt? 'Member when you told me Daddy was bad to let me not sit in my car seat?"

Hayden nodded. "Mommy wasn't using her head, and she learned a very hard lesson."

"Will you be okay?"

Hayden nodded. "I'm fine. The bruises will go away in a few days."

Mary cleared her throat. Cam turned to the sound. She shook her head at him, a frown frozen on her face. "Cameron, could you help me a minute?"

He followed behind her, watching as she jerked open and banged closed every cupboard, drawer, and finally the refrigerator.

"I thought you guys ate?" Cam asked.

"We did." Mary turned to him and sighed. "I need to cook something. My nerves are completely raw. This has been a horrible couple of days. And now this." She waved her hand toward the living room. "Do you really think it's a good idea to have her here?"

"Who? Hayden or Lily?"

"Hayden for starters... Lily too, I suppose."

"As opposed to what? Sending her home so Tag can beat on her?"

"She has family."

"I'm her family."

Mary's lips pinched together so hard they turned white. "This isn't right, Cameron. She married your cousin."

"Then she divorced him. Now, she's with me."

"In the eyes of the law, she's divorced. But you know and I know, they have a child. You are insinuating yourself in the middle of a family."

"Did you look at her? Did you see the bruises?"

Mary sighed and shook her head. "I'm not saying they don't have troubles. And maybe she should leave him. But not like this. Not with you. She shouldn't be here. You shouldn't be involved in this."

"I'm the reason she looks like that. She's staying with me and that's not going to change. And if you have a problem with it, you can leave."

Mary's chin quivered. "See? It causes bad blood. I'm your mother and you're talking to me like I'm the enemy."

Cam took a deep breath. Maybe his dad was right. He should've packed Hayden and Lily up and left town. But that would only delay the inevitable. His mother's objections would have to be dealt with, eventually. With as much calm as he could muster, he said, "If it makes you happy, I've already talked to Father Michael. The church annuls marriages on the grounds of abuse. And adultery. Tag's guilty of both."

"It's still not right." Mary shook her head. "And there's so much going on right now. Your grandma's funeral is tomorrow for crying out loud. Are we going to turn it into a three-ring circus while you parade Tag's wife in front of everyone?"

"She's not _Tag's wife_ , but if it bothers you, I'll skip it."

Mary's mouth dropped open. "Please, for the love of God and all that's holy, tell me you're kidding."

"You're the one worried about what people think. Personally? I don't give a shit."

"What's wrong with you? Where is this attitude coming from?"

"He's an adult, Mary," Cliff said from the doorway. "Drop it."

"An adult." She sniffed. "Acting like a foolish, co-dependent boy with a crush is more like it."

Cliff took a step forward and said in a low voice, "Would you please shut the hell up?"

Mary glared at him. "Would you please mind your own business? I'm trying to talk sense into my son."

"Well, he's my son too and I say, fuck Tag." He turned to Cam. "You love her, so be it. A man has no right to put his hands on a woman. Like that. Not ever."

"Is that how this works? King Cliff has spoken, so it's settled?"

"For God's sake," Cliff whispered looking back over his shoulder. "The girl has ears. That isn't a god dammed soundproof portal, it's an open doorway. Shit Mary, use your head."

Mary blushed. Cam took a deep breath.

"Do you love her, boy? More than some passing fancy?"

"Yes, I love her. And no, Mother," he said, staring at her. "You won't talk me out of it, so save your breath."

"Love." Mary grabbed a towel laying on the counter and wiped her unwashed hands on it. "It's a ridiculous notion fools use to blame their stupidity on. You want to believe in nonsense; I can't help you. But mark my words, you will regret this. You should listen to your mother. I ignored mine and look where it got me."

"Well, then fuck me." Cliff grabbed his jacket off the back of the chair. "Why don't you change it? I'm sick and damned tired of hearing how marrying me screwed up your life. I've had enough of this shit. I'm going for a beer."

"Why don't you do that? Run out of every conversation that doesn't suit you and go get a beer. That's the Cliff Vorelli answer for everything." Mary yelled at his back.

"Jesus, Mom."

"What?"

"Why do you say that?"

"Say what?"

She looked clueless. Cam wasn't about to start yet another argument. His mother's lament over her marriage was a common one. "Forget it." He headed to the living room to find Hayden. See how much she heard and how much damage his mother caused.

Hayden smiled at him. It was a weak effort, more like an attempt at a smile than a smile. She was sitting cross-legged on the floor with Lily on her lap reading the latest sport catalogue. She looked up at Cam. "I'm going to give Lily a bath and put her to bed. You should go check on your dad. He sounded pretty upset."

Cam took a deep breath.

"Seriously, Cam. I'm fine. And Lily loves her bath time."

Lily looked up at him. "You got any toys here, Cam?"

"No." He smiled down at her. "Maybe I'll go find some."

Hayden nodded. "Come on, Lil. We'll get you started and Cam will be back in a little bit."

He didn't bother telling his mom where he was going, slipping out the front door to avoid more conversations in the kitchen. He found his dad halfway up his street.

"Walking to the Blue Fox?"

"I reckon," Cliff said without looking back. "Your mother will need the car to get home."

"How will you get home?"

"Somebody will drive me. Or I'll walk. I don't mind a walk. Should do it more. Might get rid of the tire I'm carrying round my middle." He stopped and stared at Cam. "You come to babysit or lecture me?"

"Getting Lily bath toys."

Cliff nodded. "You know this won't be easy. Most of them will act just like your mother."

"You lecturing me? Joining the forget-about-her camp?"

"No. Just a warning of what you should be ready for. Hell, take the first swing. Don't wait for them to give you lip. Tell them to mind their own fucking business straight on. They're mostly cowards; they'll back right off."

Cam nodded. "Grandma Tate told me to take her to Vegas and marry as soon as the divorce was final."

"Not a bad idea."

"Nope. Then the old bird had to go and die on me."

"I figgered she'd live forever. It still doesn't feel real."

"No, it doesn't."

"Come on," Cliff said. "I'll buy you a beer."

"I promised toys. And I'm not so sure it's a good idea to leave Mom alone with Hayden."

"Shit. It's the best thing for them. Maybe your mom will feel some guilt if she stares at Hayden's broken face long enough." Cliff paused, scratched his chin. "Your mother doesn't think. Never has. Just runs her mouth and says whatever half-baked thought is forming in her tiny mind."

"I guess one beer wouldn't hurt."

His dad nodded and off they went.

It was a nice night. The air was crisp and still. Not a cloud blocked the sky allowing it to show off its billions of stars and the crescent moon. The crisp smell of fall and the scraping of dried leaves across the sidewalk relaxed Cam a little. Things would work out. His dad was right. The Tate's, Anderson's, and Vorelli's were nosy and opinionated, but in the end, they were family. Five years from now they'd probably not even remember this was an issue.

"You know," Cliff said as they walked. " Mammo called me about an hour before she passed."

His dad was only six months old when his mother died. When he was little, he couldn't say grandma, so he called Grandma Tate Mammo and the name stuck. At least for Cliff.

"Was she all right?"

"Yeah. Sounded great. She was feeding your dog donuts. Made me promise not to tell you."

Cam laughed. "Looks like your ass is going to get haunted now."

Cliff nodded and pulled a pack of cigarettes out of his shirt pocket. He tapped one out of the pack and lit it before sliding the lighter in the pack and back in his pocket. He took a deep drag. "I got read the riot act on all the usual shit, though one thing was new." Cliff grinned. "She made me promise to give you my blessing when you finally admitted you and Hayden were a thing."

Cam's brow arched. "A thing? "

"Now, don't go getting your panties in a bunch. You know what I mean. And I know you don't need my damn blessing, but still the old girl thought it was important enough to call and lecture at me pert near midnight."

"I have to admit. I'm shocked you're not still on Tag's side."

"I was never on Tag's side."

Cam nodded, but not like he was convinced.

"Look, Tag is my nephew and I love him. But you're my son and I want you to do things better than I did. That's all I've ever wanted for you. Would I have preferred for you to fall in love with Tag's wife? No. It complicates things. But I know better than anyone that you can't always reason with your heart. It wants what it wants. Sensibilities be damned."

Cam looked out across the inky blackness of the horizon. "There's no changing how I feel; that's for sure. And I don't give a damn who likes it and who doesn't."

Cliff rubbed at the corner of his eye. "I suppose you don't. To be honest, I'd lose respect for you if you did care."

There was an awkward silence for half a block, then Cliff chuckled. "So, Shelley and Tag—was that her or Tag getting even?"

"That was Shelley getting bored."

Cliff laughed. "That doesn't say much for you."

Cam laughed. "Go to hell."

"Her fat ass dad know you two split yet?"

"No idea."

"Shelley mad about the girl?"

"She's known for a while; she doesn't care."

"A while, eh?"

"Don't start on me."

"I won't. I've suspected since their wedding, to be honest. Damn, that was rough to watch. So, you sure she feels the same as you? That it's really over with Tag? Nothing hurts worse than loving someone who doesn't love you."

Cam cracked his neck. Heart to hearts weren't the sort of thing he and his dad ever shared. Arguments. Small talk. Criticisms. That was the extent of their father-son relationship. So, to admit to anyone, especially his dad that he'd just hit on Cam's worst fear was more than awkward. What if she didn't love him like he loved her? What if he was just a break from her marriage? Wasn't that her and Tag's thing? Fight and make up?

They were coming close to the bar. Cliff slowed to a stop. "Let me finish my smoke a second."

They stood on the quiet street that ran perpendicular to Main. Windows glowed with a soft yellow light; leaves blew across the sidewalk with every gust of wind. Other than his dad's occasional hacking cough, the town was quiet.

"Look son, I know it's not my place. But I want better for you."

"If you're going to tell me to forget—"

"Nope. Not going to say that." Cliff coughed. "All I ever wanted, since the day you were born, was that you have a better future than your old man. If this girl makes you happy and keeps the lift in your step, then get her and get the hell out of here. You know how it is in this town. You know how it will be. Do you think you have a chance of making this work if she's getting shit from her people on one side, ours on the other, and a police force that will make your life hell from here on out? You're smart enough to understand that, right? Getting her away from him will be hard enough without all the added pressure."

"I think you're right. She's been looking at a place in Welch."

"Still too close. Get the hell out of West Virginia."

"I'll have to talk to her. I know she was trying to be fair about Lily."

"She don't need to be around a dad like that."

"This has you really pissed, doesn't it?"

"Men don't hit women. Ain't ever a fair fight. Now, if Tag had come popped you in the nose, I'd have been on his side then paid your bail after you beat his ass."

Cam grinned. His dad's logic might be antiquated, but he had to admit, he agreed. He could have respected Tag if he'd brought the fight to him.

"Good to know I can call you for bail money."

Cliff nodded. "Just don't call your mom. She'd let you rot there to teach you a lesson. I know from experience."

"Speaking of Mom and since we're sharing and shit, let me ask you—am I the reason you two had to get married?"

"The reason?" Cliff lit another cigarette.

"Don't play dumb. You know what I mean. Was she knocked up for me? Was that why you guys got married?"

"I married her because I loved her."

Cam laughed.

"Why the hell you laughing?"

"Really? So, the cheating, the fighting... that's love?"

"Marriage is hard."

"That's not an answer."

Cliff's cheeks turned red. "Let's go get that beer."

"Why won't you answer the question?"

"Because it's none of your business."

"Seriously? None of my business? I had to grow up listening to you two fight and go on and on about your marriage being a mistake."

"That's your mother's line. She's the one who thinks she made a mistake. I've never said that."

"So, why did you marry her?"

"For God's sake, I married her because I loved her. Hell, I was crazy about her. Too crazy to see she didn't much give a damn about me. When she agreed to go out with me, I thought I was the luckiest man on the planet. Then when she said she'd marry me, I was whistling Dixie out my asshole."

"So, what happened?"

Cliff pulled on his earlobe. "Let's face it; she was above me. Smarter, prettier. She could have had any guy she wanted, and I think it didn't take too long before she regretted jumping the gun marrying me."

Cam thought of his mom's comment about listening to her mom and making smarter choices. Cam frowned. His mom was very vocal about her regrets. He'd always assumed his mom was fed up because his dad was a lousy cheat.

Cliff shrugged. "Hell, I still love her. No matter what people think or say, your mother is all I ever wanted. I suppose if I wasn't such a selfish bastard, I would divorce her. She could have married anyone, you know. You get your good looks and your brains from her. One guy she dated is a big lawyer or something now. Makes a shit-ton of money."

"Stop cheating. Trust me, it will do wonders for your marriage."

"I haven't cheated in years."

"Then get therapy."

"Ah, bullshit. Therapy. Waste of damn money is what that is. Trust me, loving a woman can make you crazy. Don't believe me, let that little piece you're hung up on tell you you're the worst thing to ever happen to her... then you come tell me how much therapy you'll need to make that feel better."

"I think I'd walk away."

"Well, you always were a bigger man than I ever was." Cliff tossed his cigarette on the ground and twisted it with the toe of his boot. "Now, let's go get that beer before they close."

As they approached the bar, Cam spotted three cop cars in the gravel parking lot. Two city cops and a Morgan County Sheriff's deputy.

Cliff must have spotted them too. He came to a halt and grabbed Cam's arm. "Forget it. Let's go on back."

"You wanted a beer; you'll get a beer."

"We don't need the trouble."

"Tag's probably sitting in a jail cell after what he did."

Cliff nodded.

Two steps through the door proved Cam wrong. Sitting at a table, in full uniform, was Tag and three other officers.

"Let's get our beer and go," Cliff said. He hurried to the bar. "Two bottles of Miller to go." He pulled some money out of his pocket and tossed it to Brandy.

"Hey Uncle Cliff." Tag gave Cliff a pat on the back. Then he addressed Cam. "Home wrecker."

"Go to hell," Cam said taking the bottle Brandy set on the counter.

"Let's keep it civil, boys," Cliff said. "Tag, get on back to your table. Cam and I are leaving."

Tag looked at Cam and smiled. "What's your hurry, ya puss?"

"I have better company waiting on me at home."

Tag sniffed. "I hear the slut likes it rough."

Cliff shook his head as he kicked a bar stool in Cam's way, but it didn't slow him down. Cam had Tag by the throat quicker than Cliff could say, "Well, son of a bitch."

Tag's feet dangled in the air as Cam spun him around and slammed his body against the bar. Brandy screamed throwing her arms in the air. The glass she was drying fell to the floor with a smash. The other officers were on their feet and after Cam. It took two of them to pull Cam away.

"Get off me," Cam said, shoving them away. "I won't hurt the little piece of shit. I have more important things to do tonight."

"Stay away from my wife."

Cam made his way to the exit but turned at the door. "That's where you're wrong, dipshit. You don't have a wife. As for Hayden, if you ever touch her again—I swear, I will kill you."

"Is that a threat?" Tag asked.

"It is what it is," Cam said.

Tag unsnapped the holster of his sidearm. His palm hovered over the handle.

"Draw it; I dare you." Cam took a step toward him.

Tag swallowed, but his hand stayed frozen.

"You fucking little coward."

"Come on, boys. Enough," Cliff said.

Tag pulled his gun out and pointed it at Cam.

"You better be a damn good aim," Cam said.

Tag cocked the gun. At the sound of the click, Cam lunged. Before Cliff could finish saying, "Jesus boys..." Cam jerked the gun from Tag's hand and struck him with it. One blow to the head and Tag went limp. Cam tossed the gun and let Tag drop to the floor like a spineless rag doll.

#  CHAPTER 30

Hayden put Lily to bed. The little girl was snoozing before Hayden could switch off the lamp on the nightstand. She brushed back the wisps of blonde hair from the child's forehead and prayed Cam and Cliff would return sooner than soon. She did not want to visit with Mary one-on-one. Knowing Mary saw her as a problem definitely made small talk awkward.

But how long could she pretend to be putting a snoring child to sleep?

What could she talk to Mary about? Apologize for causing family discord, though technically, could she be sorry if she wasn't sorry enough to change it? Or should she simply pretend she had heard nothing and discuss the weather?

"Where's Hayden?" It was Cliff. Hayden's moment of relief at the sound of their return was replaced with panic at the sound of the stress in Cliff's voice. Hayden grabbed the door handle and pulled the door open so hard it banged off the wall.

"What is it?" Hayden asked as she approached Cliff, who looked distraught. His hair was a mess and his shirt was untucked, the collar stretched and the sleeve torn. Hayden's first thought was he and Cam got into a fight. Probably over her.

"They arrested Cam," Cliff said. "I don't know when they'll set bail. I assume they'll not be in any hurry, so I need to talk reason to Tag soon as he wakes up."

"What?" Mary cried. Her voice was shrill, near hysterical. "What do you mean, _when he wakes up_? What did Cam do?"

"Tag was running his mouth and Cam did what he had to do."

"What he had to do?" Mary cried. "More like what you've taught him to do. Use his fists before he uses his head."

"Tag pulled his gun on him, Mary. Was he supposed to stand there and let him threaten him like that?"

"Oh my God." Hayden sat in the recliner. She felt dizzy.

"Tag wouldn't have..." Mary said.

Hayden shook her head. "You don't know Tag very well, Mary. You really don't."

"You're just mad he... did what he did to you. He would never have shot someone, especially not his kin."

"Can you guarantee that, Mary? I couldn't. Cam couldn't. So, he took the gun from him and smacked him upside the head with it."

"And he got arrested for that?" Mary asked.

Hayden rubbed her forehead the regret over not getting him out of town made her head pound.

"Of course, he got arrested for it. He did it in front of half of Hazelton's finest."

Mary cried. Loud sobs punctuated by calls for the universe to explain to her why this had to happen to her son. Then she turned to Hayden with tear-filled, accusing eyes. Hayden could guess what she was thinking. If Cam wasn't involved with her, he'd happily be hanging out with Shelley right now instead of sitting in a jail cell.

"I'll call Mark," Hayden said grabbing her phone from her purse. "I'm sure he knows a good attorney."

Cliff nodded. Mary cried.

"I'm going to go to the hospital and check on Tag. Maybe I can talk some sense into him." Cliff turned to his wife. "Come on, Mary. Enough of the wailing."

Hayden bit her lip trying not to listen to the argument that ensued as Cliff and Mary headed to the door. Mary accused Cliff of giving Cam the bad temper. Cliff told her bitching didn't change a damn thing. Hayden sighed with relief as the door closed and their voices faded.

Pacing back and forth while the phone rang, Hayden couldn't sit or remain still. Mark finally answered. After she explained, all he said was, "Holy shit. I'll be there as quick as I can with Bobby."

* * *

Three hours later, Cam called. She held onto the phone with both hands, as if that could bring him closer.

"Hayden, baby, I'm sorry. I've really made a mess of things."

She'd heard no one sound so sad. So broken. "It'll be okay. We'll work it out, somehow."

"I," his voice cracked. He cleared it and tried again. "I messed up. There's no fixing this."

"Don't say that. Don't even think it. There's a fix. There has to be."

"If I'd just kept walking. Shit. I'd be there with you right now. I'm so sorry, Hayden."

"Your dad told me he pulled his gun on you. You had a right to defend yourself." She tried to sound calm, but her heart raced and her stomach felt knotted.

"That won't matter."

"I don't understand. He hit me and he's not in jail."

"He's a cop. And I hit him with his revolver."

"And that's worse, how?"

"It's a felony to assault a police officer, and I did it with a weapon, so it's also assault with a deadly weapon."

"But he pulled it on you. And it wasn't in the line of duty. He was bullying. That's got to count as some sort of abuse of power. If he hadn't been in uniform and pulled a gun—"

"But he was in uniform and he'll have the entire police department to back his story."

"You have your dad... and who was tending bar?"

"Brandy. You think she'll take my side or Tag's?"

"If she realizes Tag did it to stop you and me..."

"She won't turn on Tag and you know it."

Hayden imagined the scenario going a whole different direction. What if Cam hadn't taken the gun? Tag could have shot him. He was insane right now. A small bit of relief washed over her. It was better that Cam was sitting in jail than in the morgue. "It could have been worse. He could have shot you."

"I'm not sure that wouldn't have been better."

"Don't say that," Hayden scolded. She took a deep breath. "Maybe he won't file charges?"

Cam laughed. "When hell freezes. In his mind, I took his wife and gave him a beat down in front of everyone. I don't think he'll be in a forgiving mood anytime soon."

"Your dad went to talk to him. Maybe he can—"

"I've got to go. I'm using the attorney's phone to call you and I'm sure he'd like to leave. He and Mark have been here for over an hour. I just needed to tell you I'm sorry. I should've used my head."

"Don't worry about this too much. Things work out. I love you, no matter what."

"I love you, too. Take care of French Fry for me?"

"Absolutely. When Mark gets here, I'll have him get Ms. Bianca. Hopefully, the two of them get along."

"You'll stay there, at the apartment?"

"If that's okay with you..."

"Yeah, either there or go back with Mark."

"I want to be here."

"That's fine. Just get the locks changed. And secure the locks on the windows. Have my dad do it."

Hayden assured him she would before she hung up the phone. Tears slid down her cheeks, but she swiped them away as Lily crept from the hallway to the couch. "Are you crying, Mommy?"

This time, Hayden didn't try to lie. "Yes, Mommy is crying."

Lily hugged Dolly tighter and ran to her mom. She jumped onto her lap. The little girl stroked Hayden's hair like she was a child who needed calmed. "It will be all right, Mommy. Grandma Tate promised."

Hayden hugged her close. She still smelled like bubble bath, her little body still warm from sleep. "I'm sorry I woke you, sweetness."

"It's okay. I was dreaming about butterflies. I was chasing them with Grandma Tate."

"Grandma Tate, huh?" Hayden felt like crying harder.

Lily nodded. "We worked up our apptites."

Grandma Tate always worked up an appetite. Hayden kissed the child's head. She must really miss Helen. "Would you want some pancakes?"

"With whipped cream and sprinkles?"

"I don't know. We'll have to go see what Cam has."

She took Lily's hand and walked her to the kitchen. She couldn't find any pancake batter, but he had a box of cherry Pop Tarts. She warmed one in the microwave and set it on the table with a glass of milk. Lily climbed onto the seat and started picking the crust off and handing it to French Fry.

Hayden was about to make a pot of coffee when a knock on the door distracted her. It was Mark. He looked grim. Tension and worry shot up her spine. She'd hoped Mark would arrive with all the answers and this nightmare would be over. From the look on his face, she would not like what he had to say.

"Please Mark, tell me you have good news."

"I do not." He gave her a hug. "I'm sorry, Hay Bale. I wish I did, but this is bad."

"How did this happen? It's so unfair. A few hours ago, we were happy. I was with him."

"Seems him and the ex shouldn't have gotten face-to-face so soon after he used you as a punching bag." Mark touched the bruises on her cheek. "Jesus, he really did a number on your face. He stopped there, right?"

"I'm fine. Worried sick, but physically fine." Hayden gathered Lily up and carried her snack to the couch in the living room and settled her in with a pillow, blanket, and French Fry to watch a cartoon on TV. She kissed her forehead. "I'll be in the kitchen with Uncle Mark, if you need me."

"K, Mommy," Lily said stroking French Fry's ear.

Mark followed her to the living room and plopped himself on the couch at Lily's feet. "What a mess. Any idea how Tag—"

Hayden's wide eyes moved from Mark to Lily.

"Oh, so we're not talking truth?"

"He's her father."

Lily looked up at Hayden and said, "I know you guys are talking 'bout me."

"Watch your cartoons. Uncle Mark and I will be in the kitchen."

Hayden walked toward the kitchen, but Mark stayed on the couch.

Lily turned her attention to him. "I know what happened, Uncle Mark."

"You do?" Mark rubbed the little girl's feet. Hayden turned back to the two of them.

"Daddy didn't make Mommy wear her seat belt and Cam is mad at Daddy now because he got Mommy hurt."

"That pretty well sums it up." Mark gave her little foot a squeeze. "You're one smart little cookie."

Lily nodded. "And Mommy is sad because they all got put in time out for fighting."

"Yeah, about ten to twenty years worth," Mark said. "And only God knows how much civil court will cost him."

There was no holding back the tears, so Hayden didn't even try. She turned and headed toward the kitchen.

Mark was right behind her. "I'm sorry. I shouldn't have said that. Bobby is a great attorney. Cam's in good hands. I swear. If anyone can get a guy out of jail time, it's Bobby."

Hayden nodded. She dried her eyes on the napkin laying on the table. The more she thought about it, the worse it seemed. There was no way Cam would get a fair shake in this town. Even with the best attorneys, his best case could be a few years in prison. She shook her head and laid her palms on the table. "I'm going to talk to Tag. He's going to fix this if I have to strangle him with my bare hands."

#  CHAPTER 31

Hayden hoped she'd find Tag alone, but no. They were all there. Cliff, Connie, Mary, and Officer Mac—Tag's partner, both at work and play. The idea of turning around and walking away went through her mind, but then she thought of Cam sitting in a jail cell and she knew she had to go forward. She had to fix this. Taking a deep breath, she stepped into the room.

As soon as Connie spotted her, she lunged at her slamming Hayden against the wall. "Why are you here? Haven't you caused enough problems?"

Cliff grabbed his sister and pulled her off Hayden. "Dammit, Connie. Settle down."

Connie didn't listen. Locked in beefy arms, she continued to swing and kick. "I'll kill you, bitch. I swear to God. You better watch your back."

Cliff's voice was sharp. "Enough of this shit. What the hell is wrong with you?"

"What's wrong with me?" Connie screamed and turned her venom on Cliff. "Mom is dead and her two favorite grandsons won't even be able to go to her funeral because that bitch couldn't keep her damned legs together."

"Stop it, Mom," Tag said. "You're not helping." He adjusted himself in the hospital bed. "You need to either calm down or you'll have to leave."

Jaw clenched, Connie quit swinging. Cliff let go of her and she sat in a seat and glared at Hayden. "My son's skull is cracked, you heartless bitch. That's what you need to be worried about. But I bet you're not here for that."

Hayden frowned. To look at Tag, he looked fine. There was no obvious bruising on his face. Hayden had to wonder if Connie was telling the truth.

"This never would have happened if Tag hadn't been a pussy and taken his beating like a man," Cliff yelled at his sister. "He pulled the gun on Cam while Cam was walking away. And another thing, since we're going to argue about this. If Tag wanted to blow off some steam at how things happened between Cam and Hayden, he should've taken it up with Cam in the first place and not beat the shit out of his wife."

"I don't think she has a cracked skull," Connie countered.

"Damn it Con, I was there. I saw what he did. Maybe her skull isn't cracked, but he damn sure tried." Cliff turned to Tag, pointing at him. "And you—you should be ashamed of yourself. If you wanted to take a swing at someone, it should've been Cam. I wouldn't even be mad at you. I've always known Cam wanted your wife. Hell, we've all known. If you'd have gone after him, like a man, no one would've thought a thing of it. He'd have deserved it. But you didn't do that." Cliff shook his head. "Probably because you knew he'd kick your ass."

"Are you done, Uncle Cliff?"

"Oh, I'm done, you little shit."

"Then go. And take my mother with you."

"Me?" Connie shrieked. "What did I do?"

"I want to talk to Hayden." He looked at Hayden. "That is why you're here, right?"

Hayden nodded.

"Let's go, Mary." Cliff motioned to his wife. "Connie, come with us and we'll buy you dinner."

"Screw you."

"You don't want dinner?"

"Yes, I want dinner. I'm buying the biggest steak on the menu and they better, by God, serve beer."

"There will be beer and I don't give a shit if you order ten steaks."

Connie grabbed her denim purse and slung it over her shoulder. "Fine." Connie turned to Tag. "Take care, baby. I'll be back in a bit. You want me to bring you anything?"

"One of those steaks and a beer sure would be good."

"All right, baby." She brushed back his hair to kiss his forehead. Hayden could see the bruising around his hairline. What was Cam thinking? He was lucky he didn't kill him, then he'd never gotten out of jail.

Once the room cleared out, Hayden approached Tag, stopping at the foot of the bed.

"You here to check on me? Or are you here for your _lover_?"

"How are you?"

"I'm fine. Thanks for caring."

"I am sorry it happened. All of it."

"I didn't crack your skull."

"I didn't pull a gun on you. Maybe if I had, things would have been different."

"Jesus Hayden, are you saying you wish you'd killed me? To save Cam the trouble?"

Hayden honestly didn't know what she'd meant by her comment. "I don't want you dead, Tag. That would hurt Lily."

Tag laughed. "Here that, Mac? Ten years together and she'd not wish me dead for our daughter. You're turning cold-blooded, Hayden. Keep an eye on her. She might've come to finish me off."

"Everything I've learned about not caring about people, I learned from you."

He sighed and rested his head on his pillow. "I suppose you did. Good to see I was a good teacher."

"One of the best."

His gaze focused on the bruising on her jaw. "I'm sorry about that. I shouldn't have hit you."

"No, you shouldn't have."

"I guess you took me by surprise. I mean, I figured we'd get divorced. I'd clean up my act, and we'd get back together. And I trusted Cam to be on my side, or at least stay out of it. I mean, I knew how he felt about you, but he's always been loyal. I never guessed him for a cheese-eatin' rat." Tag scratched his jaw. "So, how long have you two been together?"

"I never cheated on you. Not with Cam, or anyone."

"How noble of you. Though, honestly, the ink is barely dry on the divorce. Something has been going on. I suggest you be honest if you want to save Cam from spending the next decade in jail. How long have you two been together? Don't lie to me. It'll only piss me off."

"When I left you, he drove me to Mark's. He saw the bruises on my arms and I think that ended any feeling of loyalty he had for you."

"So, this has been going on for what, the last three months? While I'm suffering through all that damned therapy, you were banging him the whole time?"

Hayden shook her head. "I told him I loved him while I was at Mark's, but he wouldn't do anything until I divorced you."

Tag's laugh was bitter and angry. "Damn, he's a hell of a guy. Leave it to Cam to force you into a divorce to keep his conscience clear. You must have wanted laid pretty damn bad, Hayden. You went to a lot of work with the divorce and all to get a piece of ass."

Hayden drew in a slow breath. She wouldn't take his bait. "I was divorcing you, no matter what."

"Bullshit. If Cam would've kept his ass in New Orleans, we'd have worked it out. We'd still be a family."

Hayden shook her head. "The last time I left you, I only came back out of duty. That was it. That was your last chance."

"Oh, I'll get one more chance." Tag smiled at her.

Hayden shook her head, confused. Did he truly think she'd take him back after he beat the hell out of her?

"You want me to drop the charges against Cam, don't you? Isn't that why you're here?"

"Yes. He's your cousin and your friend. I know you care about him—that you don't want him in jail over this."

"The hell I don't. His ass can rot there for a lifetime for all I care. He's nothing to me. Not anymore. As a matter of fact, if he ends up having a tragic accident while he's locked up, I wouldn't shed a tear."

"Don't say that. You don't mean it."

"Don't I?" He looked at his friend. "Tell her how often accidents happen in jail, Mac."

"All the time," Mac said.

"Trust me, Hayden," Tag said. "Fucking my wife was a stab in the back Cam will come to regret, no matter how good the pussy was."

"Stop this, Tag." Tears pooled in her eyes, blurring her vision. The thought of Cam dying in jail felt more like a sure-thing than an idle threat. "Please. I'm begging you... drop the charges and get him out of jail."

"I'll tell you what. You want Cam out. I want my family back. You tell Cam it's over and get him the hell out of Hazelton, and I'll drop the charges."

Hayden swallowed. She tried to think of any other way out. Going above his head didn't help. Not a single thing happened to Tag after she filed charges against him. Evidently, they were all on his side. If she went back to Tag, that would hurt Cam so much, but better he be hurt than dead. Maybe once things settled down, Tag would see reason. Agreeing to this would buy time.

"Fine. I'll do it. If you promise me, you can get him out of jail tonight."

"Go with Mac. He'll help you file a restraining order against Cam so I can trust he won't be trying to play house while I'm laid up."

"Is that really necessary?" Hayden asked.

"Yes, it is. I want to know that his ass will go right back to jail if he comes too close." He stared at Hayden making her feel a bit like she'd just made a deal with a devil. "I want him gone. Either you take care of it, or I will. The choice is yours."

#  CHAPTER 32

When Officer Charlie Fox opened his cell door in the middle of the night, Cam was certain he was about to get a beating. He stood and braced himself for a fight.

"Relax, Cam. You're free to go."

"Free to go?" Cam eyed him suspiciously. "You going to shoot me in the back for escaping?"

"Not a bad idea, but no. Come with me. I have a few papers you need to sign."

Cam followed him to a small office. He took a seat. Charlie handed him a paper. "This says we treated fairly during your stay at Casa de Hazelton City Jail. That no one struck you or mistreated you—no matter how much we thought you needed it."

"I take it you guys have been having problems with abuse accusations?"

"Not anymore."

"That's something to be proud of." Cam signed the paper.

"This one's for your memory book. It's a restraining order."

"Tell Tag he doesn't have to be afraid. I'm done with him."

"It's not for Tag. It's for Hayden. She filed an affidavit stating that you have been stalking her and have abused her and her husband."

The words hit Cam harder than a punch to the gut. What the hell was Hayden doing? "That's some bullshit. I'm not signing that."

"Oh, you don't need to sign it. I'm just explaining the order. You will cease all contact with Hayden Matthews. Any physical or other contact with her is punishable by a $2000 fine and or jail time. By no contact, there can be no texts, phone calls, flower deliveries, notes, mail, etcetera. Do you understand?"

"I understand this is blackmail. Is that what's happening? Tag is blackmailing Hayden to get rid of me? That pathetic little shit."

Charlie leaned back in his chair. The springs creaked and groaned. "Seems seeing her husband, the father of her child, busted up over a one-night-stand gave her some clarity."

"I don't believe you."

"Believe it or not, your affair is over." With that, Charlie stood, showing Cam the door.

Outside the police station, his father was waiting for him. "Come on, boy. Let's get you the hell out of town."

"I'm not—"

"Get in the dammed car. I've had a hell of a couple of days and I'm done dealing with bullshit."

Cam climbed in the car. "So, you knew Tag dropped the charges?"

"Hayden called me."

"Did she tell you about the restraining order?"

Cliff nodded.

"Charlie says she's had a change of heart, that her and Tag are reconciling?"

Cliff shook his head and frowned at him. "You really that stupid?"

"I'm just asking. Do you know why she did it?"

"Why do you think she did it?"

"Is she going back to Tag to get me out of jail?"

Cliff was quiet. He gave his shoulders a half shrug and grabbed for a cigarette.

"Damn it, I'd rather stay in jail. What the hell is she thinking? Where is she? I need to talk to her."

"You're going straight to Pittsburgh. You're staying with Mark. At least until things calm down."

"I'm not leaving until I talk some sense into her."

"You're not going anywhere near her. I figure every cop in this town is watching to see if you violate that restraining order. Give them a reason to arrest you—that's real damn smart."

"It's better than her going back to him. You think he hurt her before? What'll you think he'll do to her now?"

"I'm talking to Tag."

"Oh well, in that case..." Cam slammed his hand against the door. "Are you kidding me? You're talking to him? When in the hell has Tag ever listened to a damned word you or anyone else had to say?"

"Tag has always listened to me."

"So, him making her go back to him—against her will, mind you—that's the progress you've made talking to him?"

"Okay, so he's not come around yet, but once he calms down, he'll be more reasonable."

"No, he won't." Cam's jaw twitched. He felt like he was being exiled at the worst time. Tag was unpredictable and angry, violent and vindictive. He had beaten the hell out of her over the possibility of her being with him. What would he do to her now that he knew it was true? If he hurt her, it would be his fault for not being there to protect her. All because he couldn't keep his temper in check. He'd have been better off to have chanced Tag putting a bullet in him.

"You've got to calm down. Seriously. You're not doing yourself any favors being pissed off all the time."

Cam gave him a look. Eyes narrowed, lips tight.

"That temper got you where you are right now. And as long as you go off half-cocked, you'll be playing right into Tag's hand. You need to calm the fuck down and start using your damn head."

Cam swallowed and let out a sigh. "Fine."

"Good." Cliff leaned back in his seat. His shoulders relaxed. "I've got to trust you to use your head. He's gonna push and you know it. He wants you to mess up; to come back to Hazelton and try to see her. I can guarantee it. Give me time to talk some sense into him."

"If he hurts her?"

"He won't. He knows you'll kill him. I guarantee you; he is afraid of you. If he wasn't, he wouldn't be doing this sort of chickenshit cowardly revenge. Hiding under the skirts of the law." Cliff shook his head. "I told him- he was a coward. If he'd been a man, he'd have called you out, day one. You don't beat on a woman, no matter how pissed off she makes you. 'Hell,' I told him. 'You think I haven't been so mad at Mary enough to want to throttle her?' But I don't. Never have."

"That makes you husband of the year."

"I know I'm a shitty husband." Cliff adjusted his seat belt. "That's why I'm leaving her."

"Leaving?"

Cliff frowned and nodded.

"As in divorcing her?"

"That's my plan."

"Who the hell are you banging now?"

Cliff flipped him off. "I'll let that go, this time. I know you're under pressure and I can't exactly claim to have been a saint over the last twenty-five years. But for your information, I'm not _banging_ anyone."

"Then why get a divorce? Now?"

"To be honest, I decided it was time while I was talking to Tag. The poor son of a bitch wants to keep his wife—"

"Ex-wife," Cam corrected.

"He wants to keep his ex-wife so bad he's willing to strong arm her into staying with him. As I sat there, listening, I thought Tag and I have that in common. Tag wants Hayden. Hayden wants you. It's pathetic."

"I don't understand what the hell you're saying. Who the hell is it you want?"

Cliff shook his head. "I want your mother, but she doesn't want me. Not really. She's in love with someone else."

"My mother?" Cam snorted. "My mother is in love with someone else?"

"Has been since high school. That Randy Burk fella."

"You're divorcing Mom because she dated a guy in high school?"

"I'm divorcing her because she never got over him."

"How the hell would you know that? I've never even heard her mention that name."

"Now, if you'd shut up a minute, I'd tell you." Cam was silent. The hum of the truck was the only sound until Cliff said, "This guy—Randy lost his wife to cancer last year and him and your mom have become buddies online."

"You're saying Mom—my mom's cheating?"

"Cheating? Shit, no. She's been dutifully staying with her asshole husband and will until death do us part. No matter how much happier she'd be with the other guy. She made her bed; she will lie in it—that's a quote from one of her messages."

"You're telling me—you've known Mom has been in a relationship with her ex and you've said nothing? Just been creeping around... reading her messages?"

"I was monitoring it. And it's not been a year, it's been months. I figured as long as she didn't, you know...well, I'd let her enjoy her affair of the heart."

"What's changed now?"

"Like I said, I realized how pathetic it is to try to keep a woman when you're obviously not the man she wants."

"Maybe her and this guy are just friends."

Cliff shook his head. "She's always loved him. He's the guy she throws in my face when she's mad. That line she uses about how she should've listened to her mother? That's about Randy."

"If she loved him, why didn't she marry him?"

"The hell if I know. I guess I was older. I had a job and the house and marrying me got her out of her parent's house quicker. Randy went to college after graduation. She always wanted to go to college, but worked at the drugstore instead. Seems Randy wasn't around and I was."

"That hardly sounds like she loved the guy."

"Hell, I knew I wasn't the one she wanted. I was the one that was convenient."

"You're saying she married you out of convenience? Or was she pregnant?" Cam asked again. He still couldn't buy the idea that his parents married for any other reason than they were forced. Then a thought hit him. "You aren't going to tell me you're not my dad, are you?"

"Well now, good to hear you sound like that might disappoint you."

"Just answer the question."

"You're my boy."

"You're sure?"

"Hell, yeah. Your mother was in the virgin-until-married club."

"That's probably some information I didn't need to know. A simple, you're my son would've been plenty."

"Well, I don't want to be making your mom out to be some kind of slut. She was a good girl. It's not her fault she loves this other guy."

"It's totally her fault if she loves another guy. Only a fool marries someone they don't love, especially if they love someone else."

"Listen to you. Never been in a relationship longer than a year and you're the expert on love and all that shit."

"It's why I didn't stay in any of those relationships. I knew I didn't love any of them."

Cliff shrugged. "I suppose she was fond of me. Tried to love me."

"You think the cheating might have been the bigger problem? Not the high school boyfriend?"

Cliff shifted in his seat. "The first fight happened after you were born. I was so damned happy—like walking on cloud nine, icy cold beer on a 90 degree day, kinda happy. I had this perfect kid. A beautiful wife. Then one night, I came home from work and your mother was crying. The asshole had sent her a gift for you. This crystal teddy bear with a little blue bow around its neck."

"I don't remember it."

"You wouldn't. I smashed it."

"Good call."

"Not really. It pissed her off. She cried for hours. Told me she should've waited and married him instead."

Cam sighed. "So, now this guy is single?"

"Yeah."

"Are you going to confront her?"

Cliff shook his head. "Nah. I don't see the point. It'll just make her feel guilty. I'm just going to leave. She can think I'm an asshole and go cry on Randy's shoulder."

"I can't decide if that's the most noble or the most idiotic thing I've ever heard. Why don't you be honest with her? Tell her you know about this guy?"

"Then she'd stay with me. I'm the one she committed herself to and by God she'd power through and pray every day for me to kick the bucket so she could be free."

"That's dark."

"It's how it is."

"Is anyone in our family normal?"

Cliff thought a minute. "Not a single one of us. Hell, I just realized I spent most of my high school years hitting on my aunt."

"What? Good God, Dad."

Cliff grinned. "I never knew. It was one truth your grandma shared with me before she passed. Seems Lita Salvan is my aunt. Your Grandpa Earl and Lita's mom had a twenty-year affair. She was his nurse." Cliff added air quotes. "Hayden didn't tell you? Grandma Tate said she told her."

"No, she never mentioned it."

"She's a good girl. Good to know she can keep a secret."

"What a screwed up bunch. Even Grandpa was a cheating asshole?"

"I'm not sure how to answer that. As a cheating asshole, I can say, there are two sides to every story."

"Whatever helps you sleep at night."

Cliff lit another cigarette and turned on the radio. Over the sounds of Hot KiX Country, he added, "Sometimes life isn't just black and white. Got to expect some gray."

#  CHAPTER 33

Cliff dropped Cam off outside of Mark's building after midnight. Cam felt like a refugee dumped off on the curb as his dad waved from his truck before he headed back home. Cam had none of his stuff. No extra clothes, no toothbrush, no deodorant. Hell, he didn't even have a phone charger. He wished he could've stopped by his apartment, at least for a minute. If only to make sure Hayden was all right. That they were all right.

Before going into the building, he called her. It would only take a minute to make sure she was okay.

Tag answered. Cam hung up.

He leaned against Mark's building. The concrete of the high rise was cool through the thin fabric of his tee shirt. Would it have killed him to have just walked out of that damned bar?

"Hey, stranger."

Cam turned to the voice. Shelley. She looked gorgeous as ever in dark slacks, black sweater, and calfskin boots. She gave him a sympathetic smile before pulling him in for a hug.

"What the hell are you doing so far north?"

"I brought you clothes, a toothbrush, and some bad news."

"Thank you. I was just thinking I didn't have anything."

"Aren't you even curious about the bad news?"

"Let me guess. You forgot a phone charger?"

Shelley gave him an extra squeeze. "Fresh from the slammer and still cracking jokes. I knew there was a reason I loved you."

Her words made him immediately awkward. Of course, she meant it as friends and he was being ridiculous to let this make him feel like he should run.

She rubbed his back. "How you holding up?"

"I'm all right. Tired. Pissed that I lost my temper, but other than that, I couldn't be better."

"Have you eaten? You want to grab a bite to eat? When I dropped off your stuff with Mark, I snooped in his fridge. The guy's got nothing to eat up there."

"You looked in his fridge?"

"Hell yeah. I was hungry. I fought hard for you—that builds up an appetite."

"Fought for me?"

Shelley stuck her hands in her jean pockets. "It was the bad news part of my visit. The part you totally dodged, by the way."

"I think I can guess. Thanks to my arrest I'm out of a job."

"Not out of a job. I fought for you, remember? But," she scrunched up her face. "You have been suspended from the team, pending an investigation. But I also got you paid leave, so that kind of makes it like a vacation."

Cam ran a hand through his hair. "Shit. I can't blame them. I'm not exactly role-model material."

"One bar fight? Good lord, what has the world come to?"

"Legally, I have a restraining order from Hayden too."

"She did what?"

"She did it to get me out of jail, I'm sure."

"There had to be another way. Forgive me for saying it, but that was a bitch move. A restraining order by a woman alleging abuse could ruin you."

"Ten years in jail for beating a cop would also be a career ender."

"Ten years? Seems steep for a bar fight."

"The moral of the story is to never fight with a guy in uniform."

She grabbed his hand and pulled him toward a bar and grill across the street. "Come on, let me buy you dinner. You have to be hungry. It will only take a minute."

"I should—"

"I just drove two hours to make sure you had clean underwear and a toothbrush. I spent two hours in a coach's meeting fighting on your behalf. I deserve some damn food."

"You're right. Let's go."

* * *

Hayden made it to the lobby in time to watch Cam leave with Shelley. Hand in hand, they crossed the street to the Pink Elephant Bar. Tears stung her eyes, though she cautioned herself to not jump to conclusions. Cam didn't know she was here and they could just be grabbing a drink as friends.

But it still hurt. The pain was as sharp as an elbow to the gut. Walking like a zombie back to the elevator, she rode back up to Mark's.

"What the hell happened?" Mark was up from the couch to meet her as she came in the door.

"He was with Shelley."

"Who? Cam?"

Hayden nodded. "That's why he never came up. He was down there with Shelley."

"She brought him clothes earlier. She must have waited around for him."

"She brought him clothes? So, evidently he keeps some at her place or she has a key, because I know I locked the apartment when I left."

"Maybe his parents met her at the apartment?"

"If that was the case, why didn't Cliff just bring the clothes?"

"I don't know, Hayden." Mark's voice rose. "Why didn't any of you think to bring him clothes? Why is Shelley the bad guy for being thoughtful?"

"I guess she's just better than me." Hayden stomped her foot like a child which made her feel even more ridiculous. The day had been too much. From the physical pain to the emotional turmoil, she felt brittle and ready to crack. She wanted to be alone. She wasn't even sure why she came up here. She wasn't needed.

She turned to leave.

"Stop," Mark called to her. "Don't go. I'm sorry. I shouldn't have made light of it."

She stopped, but she didn't turn to him. She was trying too hard to stifle tears to look at him.

"Sweetie," Mark said. "Now's not the time for petty jealousy."

"Petty jealousy?" she yelled. "I—"

"Cam could go to prison. For years. And he did that because he loves you."

"Maybe he shouldn't." Hayden marched toward the door.

"Don't you dare leave."

Hayden shook her head and kept walking.

"Fine. I'm calling Cam."

"Absolutely not." She spun back around. "He can spend the whole night with Shelley, if he wants. He's a big boy. I don't own him."

"The hell you don't. He doesn't know you're here. If he did, he'd never have gone with her."

"It's what they do when they don't think you're looking that tells the most. Him and Tag are of the same blood."

"Pah. Stop talking nonsense. I share the same blood too, so I'll tell you what has happened—Shelley did him a favor, and she probably told him she was hungry. She was snooping in my fridge and cupboards earlier and you know there's no food to be found here."

"They were holding hands."

Mark sighed. "I won't pretend Shelley isn't still hung up on the guy, and she would happily undercut you if she could. But she can't. Cam is crazy about you."

"Whatever. I need to go. I left my daughter with my sister to come explain to Cam. I should've just called and saved myself the hassle."

"You wanted to see him. You still want to see him."

"I don't know, maybe I don't." The tears that burned her eyes spilled down her cheeks.

Mark gave her a hug, squeezing her tight. "You're not going anywhere. You will wait right here on Cam." He kissed the top of her head. "Just imagine, if Cam walked in right now, he'd think we were lovers."

Hayden pulled herself free. "You're ridiculous."

"Look at us, wrapped together. I kissed you and you didn't resist."

Hayden rolled her eyes. "We've never had sex."

"You don't know that Cam and Shelley—"

Hayden gave him a look.

"What?" Mark asked. "You don't know."

"I know they've had sex."

"Fine. They had sex. You happy?"

"No." She wiped at her eyes. "Nothing about any of this makes me happy."

Mark pulled his phone out of his pocket and dialed.

"What are you doing?" Hayden asked.

Mark held up his finger to silence her. "What the hell are you doing right now? Hayden is waiting here for you." Then he hung up. He slid his phone back in his pocket. "Bet you a hundred he's here in under a minute."

"I can't believe you did that. I'm leaving."

"He's coming."

"I don't want him like that, don't you get it? I've had that. I've spent years with a guy who only did the right thing when he got caught doing the wrong thing."

"Cam loves you, Hayden. You're making too much of this. If Shelley means anything more than friends, it'll take him at least twenty minutes to shake her."

"I'm not staying." She ran from the apartment, down the stairwell. She heard the elevator doors open and Mark say, "She went that way."

She'd barely made it to the first landing before Cam caught up with her. "Go away," she told him. "I don't need this."

#  CHAPTER 34

Cam's fear bordered on panic. He'd honestly never been so scared in his life. Even when they fingerprinted him, or when the cell doors slammed close, he hadn't felt as much worry. He'd been pissed. At the jail, he knew Tag was screwing with him, trying to tear him and Hayden apart. That was infuriating, but he never thought for a second that he'd lose Hayden over it.

But this, feeling her pull away, literally and figuratively, made him think his world was ending. She pushed against his chest trying to remove herself from his hold on her. "Let me go. I need to go."

He held her until she stopped struggling. "No. Not like this. Talk to me."

The stairway door opened. The sound of the metal latch echoing off concrete was jarring. Cam worried someone would come, and he'd have to let loose of Hayden before he could work this out.

"Cam," Mark yelled.

"Yeah?" He answered, gripping her tighter.

"I'm going out. You guys take care of the apartment for me for the night?"

"Sure," Cam said.

"I left the door open. Hayden, don't you dare dally around in this stairwell forever and get me robbed," Mark said before allowing the door to click shut.

Cam cradled her face in his hands, brushing away tears with his thumbs. "Let's go talk?"

She shook her head.

"Please, Hayden. You can't do this to me."

She said nothing, but her body relaxed a little, allowing him to pull her close. He held her until she agreed to go to the apartment to talk.

With an arm around her waist, he led her up the steps to the apartment, closing and locking the door behind them. He smoothed her hair, brushing it back from her face. The bruising on her jaw was darkening, and she had new bruises on the soft skin of her neck. He touched them lightly. "These new?"

Hayden's hand went to her neck. "Connie. She blames me. I went to the hospital to talk sense into Tag and she attacked me as soon as I walked in the door."

"Oh baby, you don't deserve all this."

"No, I don't." Tears filled her eyes. "All I want is to be happy. To have a peaceful life."

"I know." He kissed her forehead. "And we will."

"Will we?"

He nodded.

"I left Lily with my sister, so I could come here and explain why I did what I did. So you wouldn't doubt me. And when your dad called and said he dropped you off outside, I went out to meet you. I saw you guys. Hugging and kissing... holding hands as you skipped across the street."

"She gave me a hug. I don't recall a kiss and there was definitely no hand holding and skipping."

"That's what it looked like from where I was standing."

"It was nothing. Shelley told me she'd driven two hours to bring me clothes and was hungry. I didn't know you were here and thought buying her a sandwich wouldn't be a problem."

"Oh yeah, just doing a friend a favor. I've heard that before."

"I'm not Tag." His words came out much harsher than he'd planned, but Tag was the last person he wanted to be compared with.

"Do you love her?"

"Of course not. She's just a friend. I love you. And only you. Mark called and said you were here and I left right then."

"You should probably go back. She's probably lonely."

"She'll understand. She knows how I feel about you." He pulled her a little closer, pleased she didn't fight him. "She knows there's nothing in the world I want more than to be with you."

"It hurt to see you two together. It was the last thing I imagined you'd be doing."

"We weren't together." He pulled her the rest of the way in, holding her. Kissing the top of her head.

"I'm sorry I compared you to Tag." Taking a deep breath, she nestled deeper against him.

He breathed in the smell of her hair, the feel of her soft warmth against his body.

"It's just," she squeezed her eyes closed. "It's been a long couple of days. So many things have changed in such a short period of time. I think my head's spinning and it's made me a bit emotional. I know Shelley isn't the enemy. And I trust you."

He kissed her. "I'm sorry I hurt you, even if it was by accident. It has been a crazy couple of days. Some real highs and lows."

Hayden nodded. "It wears on you bit by bit."

"Have you eaten anything?"

"I ate the crust off Lily's sandwich. And a half a pudding cup."

"How about I order us a pizza? Do you have time? Or do you need to get back?"

Hayden smiled up at him. "I have all night and half of tomorrow. Harris is sensitive to your situation."

"Which is?"

"You'll not be able to attend your grandma's funeral. Or at least I assumed you couldn't go with the restraining order and all."

His brows lowered, and he frowned. "I suppose it wouldn't be a good idea."

"So, she's watching Lily so I could come be with you."

"Does that mean she's okay with the divorce?"

"She's still not a fan of the divorce, but she's accepting it. I think her friends tipped her a bit in my favor. Seems beating a woman isn't popular among Hazelton folks."

"Did public opinion tip your mom and dad?"

"I honestly don't know how my dad feels. I think my mother broke him years ago. He practically lives in the basement. I think he only comes up for meals. My mom remains unswayed. She said, and I quote—'Of course a man will lose his temper when he catches his wife cheating.' So, everything is my fault."

"She's something else."

Hayden shrugged. "Your dad seems to be on my side. I was shocked. After Connie came after me, your dad lit into her and Tag pretty good."

"I think you've won his bitter heart."

"He is old-school. Real men don't beat women. I think he realizes his son is definitely the better man."

"I'm realizing my family is way more complicated than I ever dreamed."

"Like?" She looked up at him with raised brows.

"Everyone always blames the Vorelli side for all of our flaws, but the Andersons were just as screwed up. Going back generations."

"Like how far back?"

"Like with Mark."

"Him being your cousin?"

Cam nodded. "My grandpa was the worst kind of cheating asshole. What kind of guy would do what he did?"

"It's almost like a second family."

"I'd probably have more respect for the guy if he had had another family. That would mean he was taking care of them. He knocked a woman up and pretended it never happened. Who does that shit? Let's a kid grow up without half his family?"

"Mark told me Grandma Tate apologized to Lita before she died. Invited her to the house and had dinner with her. She wanted to meet Mark, but passed away that night."

"Ah, Mark would have loved her."

"I think she'd have liked him too. Mark's turning out to be good family to have."

"Does your dad know?"

Cam chuckled. "Yeah. You know how they are. Family is family. Dad said he was fine with another fag in the family. He's as offensive as he is protective."

"Another?"

"Aunt Connie," Cam said. "Come on, Hayden. How the hell don't you know? Aunt Connie has been living with a woman for years."

"Well yeah, I assumed they were just roommates."

"Seriously? You never suspected anything?"

"No. Connie always has different men in her life."

"Have you ever seen her with one?"

"She had Tag. She was married to a guy."

"True. But I'm guessing that's not her natural preference."

"And your dad knows this?"

"Of course. She's his sister."

"She was my mother-in-law."

Cam smoothed the long strands of hair that fell over her shoulders. "She does her best to hide it."

"Why doesn't Connie just be honest?"

Cam shrugged. "Why does anyone lie? She's probably afraid people will be mad at her."

"Would they?"

"Probably not. But they would give her a fair share of shit. I don't know if you've noticed, but my family doesn't mind their own business for anything."

"Have they been hard on you?"

"I haven't seen them. And it doesn't really matter. I'm pretty focused on just one thing right now."

"Staying out of jail?"

He pressed her to him and kissed her. "Keeping you with me. Right now, that's all I care about."

#  CHAPTER 35

The morning light glowing from the edges of the window blinds woke Hayden. Normally, Lily would have woken her at least once for a drink or a bathroom visit. It was an odd thing to sleep through the night. Cam lay beside her. Heavy, muscled arms stretched above his head, his dark hair a contrast against the white of the pillow. Hayden touched his shoulder with a light hand, not enough to wake him, but enough to assure herself he was real. His body was warm and firm under her hand.

She smiled.

She rolled to her side and grabbed her phone to check for messages. Harris, her sister, sent her a picture of Lily eating pancakes, with _Hi, Mommy!_ And a happy face. Lily was dressed in a simple navy cotton dress with her hair somehow controlled in braids. Harris was taking Lily to Helen's funeral. Hayden sighed. Poor Cam. He deserved to say goodbye to his grandmother, but how could he? Even if there wasn't a restraining order, there would be high drama. She'd made Cam a pariah in his family. She had to wonder if she was worth it, or would Cam come to regret this decision?

She felt him move behind her. Rolling onto his side, he wrapped strong arms around her waist and pulled her close. Brushing his chin against her shoulder, he snuggled into the curve of her neck and let out a sleepy exhale. He was still fast asleep. She kissed the muscled arm that held her and wiggled her phone arm free.

She texted her sister a thank you, adding a smiling kitty for Lily.

_How's Cam?_

Her sister must really be hearing it from her friends. She'd never cared about Cam before. _He's ok. Well, as good as can be expected._

_Mel at the college said he got fired._

Hayden's mouth dropped. _He never said anything._

_Mel works there. She should know._

_This is all such bull._

_Hopefully ur worth it. LOL._

Hayden flipped her off—emoji style. But she was asking herself the same thing. She didn't want to chat with her sister anymore. She told her she needed to go. Then she got a kitten face and a flower in response. Then a turtle. Then a chick. Hayden smiled. Lily was now doing the texting. Hayden sent her a row of hearts.

_Headed out—_ Harris texted. Then she added— _wish me luck. I'm repping the enemy._

_True._ Hayden sighed. Be ready to duck.

Hayden shoved the phone under her pillow with trembling fingers. She was going to cry. More than a few tears. She could feel it building in her chest. She tried to wiggle out from under Cam.

"Everything okay?" he asked, his lips brushed against her shoulder.

Hayden took a deep breath. Once she was certain she could speak without suffering an onslaught of tears, she said, "For me, it is."

Cam kissed her shoulder. "What's that supposed to mean?"

"Harris said you got fired."

She could feel his grin against her skin. "It was a shitty job anyhow."

"I always thought you liked coaching."

"I do. But trust me, Ward was becoming too much. He's a tyrannical pain in the ass."

He pulled her closer. "You okay?"

She took a deep breath. "You're missing your grandma's funeral."

"It wouldn't be the highlight of my life, trust me."

"But it's closure you'll miss, and it's my fault."

He kissed the tender skin behind her ear. "I know she's gone. I don't need a funeral to make that feel real. And it's not your fault. Of all the people to blame in this, you're the only one who did nothing wrong."

She rolled into him and kissed his bare chest. She wasn't sure she was blameless. She should've changed the locks on her doors. Or listened to Cliff and gotten Cam out of town before he ran into Tag. She'd seen the look on Cam's face. Recognized the fury, but convinced herself he'd calmed down.

"I love you."

"I love you too, but—"

"No buts." He rolled her onto her back. Grabbing her hands in his, he pushed them above her head and kissed the skin along her neck, down her breast. The warmth of his kiss sent heat through her body making her forget what had her worried. She closed her eyes and moaned. His lips traveled to the very sensitive area at the base of her breast and down her side. Nipping at tender skin. "This is what I want." He released her hands. She ran them through his hair.

His hands moved down her body to the hem of the over-sized tee shirt she was wearing. Pushing it up above her hips, exposing her belly, he brushed kisses across tender skin. "You are what I want."

"Are you sure I'm worth... all of this?" Tears burned her eyes. She bit her lip to keep them from trembling.

His face softened. Trailing kisses up her body, he cradled her face between his hands, holding her gently. "You are the kind of woman a man would start a war for."

Her first instinct was to argue, to point out the obvious costs of a war, but when she opened her mouth, he kissed her. A deep, soul-melting kiss. She wrapped her arms around his shoulders and held him tight. She didn't want a war, but if there ever was one, she wanted him as her champion. Not only did he make her feel loved, he made her feel wanted and safe.

"Thank you, Cam. Thank you for loving me."

"Trust me, babe. I'm the lucky one."

"Do you really think that?"

Bracing himself above her, he looked at her, as if studying her. His thumbs stroked her temples. "You are all I've ever wanted. I've always known you would be the best thing to ever happen to me."

She kissed him. Unable to get him close enough, she ran her hands down the smooth skin that covered hard muscles to hips that curved into the most perfect ass ever. She felt powerful. Her hands, her touch set something loose in him. Something primal. It wasn't something she could see or measure, but like the air she breathed, she could feel its life-giving effect.

"Leave with me, Hayden."

It took her a moment to pull herself from that tactile world where only her senses were fully functioning and rouse her brain. "Leave?"

"Yeah, leave. Let's pick a place and just go."

"I can't just leave. I'd have to pick up Lily..."

He nodded. Kissed her. "Move up here. It's close enough for visits, but far enough away that we don't have to deal with his bullshit every day."

She nodded. "That could work. I think that would be a good idea."

"Good. Marry me," he asked as if sending the question out for a trial.

Hayden let her hands slide down the silky-smooth skin along his ribs. "Is that a proposal or a challenge?"

"Which would make you say yes?"

"You sweet, beautiful, foolish man. I would marry you in a heartbeat. But what about the charges? The restraining order?"

"The hell with him. Let him charge me. I have enough money to hire attorneys. I'm not living under his thumb forever."

"You need to think about this. He could put you in jail."

"I know he'll try. Hell, I know he'll try whatever he can to put a wedge between us. But it's not a game to me. I love you and I want to be with you."

"But if you got arrested again. I've already caused you so much—"

"If you want to make it up for the trouble, then give me what I want. Marry me. Legally be mine."

Hayden held his face between her hands. "I would love to marry you. Today or any day."

Cam kissed her wrist, allowing his lips to move down her arm, to the sensitive skin in the hollow of her elbow. "Good then. We should go now."

"Now?" she asked.

"Maybe in a minute," he said, as he moved down her body, slipping her panties off and tossing them on the floor. Next went her shirt and his boxers. "Or a while."

She wrapped her legs around his hips and her arms across his shoulders. His body was heat and life. A solid foundation she could hold on to. While he held her, there was no fear for the future. No pains from the past. She pulled him closer, held on tighter. As if his body could feel her need, he drove deeper, held her tighter until she was moaning, her teeth grazing his shoulder as her body melted against him, boneless and dizzy.

He rolled onto his back, pulling her with him. His hands were gentle tracing circles on her shoulders as he kissed her temple.

Eyes heavy, body satisfied, she almost drifted off to sleep. Under her pillow, her phone rang.

"Don't answer it," Cam said.

Hayden took a deep breath trying to calm the sudden rush of anxiety. She wanted to listen to Cam. To shut out the rest of the world. At least for a time.

#  CHAPTER 36

As soon as her phone rang, Cam knew it would be bad. It wasn't that he was a fortune teller; he was just getting used to the one step forward, two back path his life was taking. He and Hayden seemed to have the universe against them. When Hayden covered her mouth with her hand and gasped, his heart sank.

Cam wrapped an arm around her waist. "What is it? Is it Lil?"

Hayden shook her head as she sat up. Her eyes filled with tears.

He kissed her knee. As long as Lily was okay, they could work through anything else. But she didn't look okay, and she definitely didn't sound okay. Just plenty of, 'oh no's' Cam's heart hit the floor when she said, "I'll be there as quick as I can."

"No," he said. "You can't go back there."

She ran a hand through his hair. Kissed his forehead. "I have to," she whispered.

"Then I'll come with you."

She shook her head. "You know you can't. Not now. Not yet."

"What's going on? Why do you have to go?"

"It's Tag. He passed out at the funeral and they rushed him to the hospital."

"So that's why you need to go? For him?"

Hayden took a deep breath. "Cam, Harris said the officers with him freaked out. Everyone thought he'd died."

Cam shrugged. He supposed he should care. He took a deep breath and tried to care, but he didn't. After the last couple of days, he felt nothing but anger. Hell, as mad as he was, he could toss the first shovel of dirt on the son of a bitch and not shed a tear.

"I've got to go. I need to find out what's going on."

He grabbed her by the leg and held on. "You said you loved me."

She ran a gentle hand down his cheek. "I do. Cam, don't you understand? If Tag dies, they're coming for you. Harris said they were saying things like aggravated assault and—" she took a big gulp of air. Her eyes filled with tears. "If he'd die, they could charge you with murder. That can't happen."

"And how will you be able to stop it? You need to stay here. Where you're safe. Knowing Tag, this could all be an act. I'm done letting him control us. Let him file his charges. I'd rather take my chances with a jury than kiss his ass."

"Mark didn't seem to have much hope of winning. He said the attorney—"

"There are other attorneys. That was one guy's opinion."

"One guy Mark trusted to be one of the best." Hayden gathered her clothes off the floor. "No." She pulled on her jeans. "It's too big of a risk."

"I'll go with you."

"Stop acting like I'm incapable of driving home."

"It's not the drive I worry about."

"I can handle Tag too. I admit, he blindsided me last time, but never again."

"I hate sending you—"

"You're not sending me. I'm going. And I'm not asking your permission and honestly, you're not invited. This is a problem I can fix better alone."

Cam looked away.

Hayden sat on his lap and pulled him close. "I won't let you go back to jail. When I talked to Tag and Mac at the hospital, they practically assured me you'd have an accident while locked up. I'm not sure exactly what I can do, but I will think of something. Maybe I can record them making threats?"

"I'm tired of this. I'm tired of the damned games. I'm going."

"No." She stood firm. "I have to go, but I'll be back."

"I don't—I can't shake the feeling that this will be bad. I really don't want you to go."

"I have to think of Lily too. Harris said she was so scared when Tag collapsed. She's just a little girl and no matter how much I think he's an ass, she loves him. She's scared, and she needs me."

He wrapped his arms around her waist. "You're right. We'll get you home to your little girl."

Hayden shook her head. "You're not listening to me. You. Are. Not going. End of discussion."

"Damn it, Hayden."

"Damn it, Cam."

"At least let me drive down with you. I'll stay in the car."

"No," Hayden's words were sharp. "Trust me and listen to me. You stay right here. Or better yet, go stay with that friend—that guy, Rudy—be somewhere they can't find you, at least until I can work this out."

"Do you seriously think he'll die? I know I hit him pretty good, but it wasn't that hard."

"We'll cross that bridge if it comes up. Right now, I'm going to assume he'll wake up and hopefully, he'll listen to me again."

"He didn't listen to you. He blackmailed you." Cam stood and paced the room. "At least wait on Mark. I'll call him. You can't go alone."

"I'm not a child." She kissed his cheek. "I'll just go down there and see what's going on and then I'll be back."

Cam held her close. He hated himself for his lack of control. He should have walked away. But he didn't. He was no better than Tag, losing his mind and letting his emotions control him. It was Hayden who kept paying the price for their meanness. And Lily. If he killed her dad—hell, he couldn't think of it. His own eyes burned. He took a long breath.

"It'll be all right. It has to be," she said. "We're meant to be together."

"I'm sorry, Hayden. I'm so sorry. This is all my fault. If I hadn't lost my temper-"

"Shh," she said. "Stop it. He drew a gun on you. You did what you had to do to protect yourself."

"I don't think he'd have pulled that trigger."

"Are you sure of that?" She looked in his eyes. Her gaze was steady. "I don't know that. I'm the one he beat the hell out of. I saw the hate in his eyes. He knocked me unconscious and left me there in a puddle of blood and glass. He didn't know if I was dead or alive. Did he call me an ambulance? No. He probably stopped at the damned bar, got himself a few shots of whiskey, and forgot all about me."

Cam closed his eyes and nodded.

"You are my hero, Cam. I love you and I want what's best for us. Please, trust me to deal with this."

"I do."

He sat on the bed and watched as she dressed, unable to help or fix the mess he'd made. Fully clothed from jeans to tennis shoes, she was ready to leave him. He kissed her one last time, held her close, then let her go.

#  CHAPTER 37

One mile in the city, there were blue lights in Hayden's rear-view mirror. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath. She thanked God Cam wasn't in the car. She opened her eyes and watched as the officer approached. From the way he rested one hand on his gun and the other on his nightstick, she assumed it was Marr Guthridge, or Barney Fife according to Tag. Marr's biggest obsession was getting shot in the line of duty. Not a single officer had ever been killed in the line of duty in Hazelton, West Virginia but Marr obviously thought he might be the first. With his sunny disposition, it might be a self-fulfilling prophesy.

Unless Tag died first. If Tag died from Cam's beating, would that count as in the line of duty? Hayden felt queasy. Because Tag was in uniform when he picked the fight, they would certainly say he was on duty. The whole drinking in the bar thing would be forgotten. No one would care that Tag pulled a gun on Cam. If Tag died, Cam would be called a murderer.

She rolled her window down. "Hey Marr," she said as he approached.

"Hayden." He gave her a nod.

"Was I speeding?"

"Maybe a little."

"Oh." She nodded. "I was in a hurry to check on Tag."

"Really?" He rested his arm on the top of her car door, peering down at her. "Where were you coming from?"

"I was staying with a friend."

"So I've heard. I have to admit, it surprised me. I never took you for the whoring type."

Hayden bit her lip and forced herself to remain calm. "Did you want my license and registration?"

He gave her a head to toe once-over. His gaze settled on her chest. "I was just pulling you over friendly-like. You want to make it official?"

"No." She smiled at him. "I want to get to the hospital to check on Tag."

"Good to see you still care."

"Of course, I do."

"Well then, I suppose I'll let you be on your way. Tell that old rascal to behave himself. That he needs to heal up before he can take on the big ones," Marr chuckled. "He'll know what I mean."

It took every ounce of effort on Hayden's part not to roll her eyes. She gave him a sweet smile as she rolled up her window. She had no doubt who the big one was, or what Tag had been busy doing last night. He probably passed out today from dehydration, and that makes Cam the bad guy. "Brandy, you stupid girl. Why do you make it so easy for him?" Hayden said to the empty car.

She parked her car in the hospital parking lot. Before shutting off the engine, she called Cam. She smiled when he answered. It had been a little more than a few hours, but she missed him. After he said hello, she said, "I just wanted to let you know I made it."

"No police harassment?" Cam asked. She could hear the smile in his voice.

"A bit."

"Seriously?" The smile was gone. "What the hell?"

"It was no biggie. Just Marr. He stopped me to see where I was coming from."

"Backwards, redneck asshole."

"It was nothing. Just a bit of a hassle."

"That's what's so wrong with all of this. Driving through town shouldn't be a _bit of a hassle_."

"Well, it's over. I'm going to go check on Tag. Marr insinuated Tag took on _the big one_ last night. Tag was probably hung over this morning. I'll try to talk some sense into him."

"There's no talking to him. Petty little prick."

"Cam," Hayden sighed. "I just wanted to call and tell you I made it. I wasn't trying to rile you up."

"You're not. They are."

"You've got to stay calm."

He groaned. "I'm calm."

She imagined him talking though clenched teeth. She understood his frustration, but he couldn't be allowed to run with it. He'd be behind bars for sure.

"Good. It will work out, Cam. The dust will settle and we'll get to be together."

"Until then, we'll jump through his hoops, sneak around, smile when they harass you. It'll be the best damn time of our lives."

"Sarcasm. You do it well," she teased.

"I'd be better if you weren't there alone. I don't trust any of them. I swear, if anything happens to you—"

"Stop. I'm fine. I'm going into the hospital. I'm perfectly safe."

"Can't even drive into the damned town without—"

"You should go for a jog. Or get Mark to take you to play squash or whatever it is he plays. You need to calm down."

"I'm calm."

"I can tell." She took a deep breath. "Seriously Cam, it will be all right. It has to be."

* * *

Two hours later, Hayden wasn't so certain things would be all right. Tag looked like death warmed over. His body was still and gray. In the entire time she'd been at the hospital, he'd barely moved. When she first came into the room, she said his name and he'd opened his eyes a crack, nodded, then went back to sleep.

He'd slept ever since.

Hayden sat in the chair next to his bed and waited. The holding pattern that was her life left her numb. Or maybe it was the overload of worry that stripped away the emotion. Either way, she couldn't bring herself to cry or smile. She just wanted this all to be over.

Another hour passed before the doctor appeared at the doorway.

"Mrs. Mathhews?" He was a tall man, with curly hair and stooped shoulders.

"Yes." She stood and shook the doctor's outstretched hand. "Call me Hayden, please."

"Certainly... Hayden. I'm Dr. Reed." He looked at Tag, then back at Hayden. "Has he woken at all? Stirred?"

"When I first got here. I said his name, and he looked at me. He hasn't moved since."

From the grim look on Dr. Reed's face, Hayden doubted she would like his diagnosis. Her palms were wet from sweat. She wiped them on her pants as she waited for him to destroy her future.

"We did a CT scan to see if there were any head injuries, bleeding, or what-not."

"And? Did you find anything?"

"There was a shadow near the brain stem that could be causing the problems."

"A shadow?"

"It could be a mass, maybe a hemorrhage. I'm going to order an MRI to get a better idea what we're dealing with."

"Have you done a drug screen? Can't drug abuse cause brain damage?" Wasn't that what her mom always told her? Drugs did brain damage. It didn't have to be Cam's fault.

"An overdose could." Dr. Reed scribbled on the file folder he held in his long, skinny fingers. "He has a history of drug use?"

"Only sporadically. But yes, he's—" How to describe him? "He's no saint."

Dr. Reed nodded. Hayden wanted to ask him if it was the fight that had Tag in the coma, but she didn't want to verify it. There had to be something, anything else to blame. She said nothing, just stood there, squeezing her hands together.

"We'll get the tests started. Then we'll have a better idea what we're dealing with."

Dr. Reed left. At the door, she heard him say, "Excuse me."

A familiar voice responded, "No sir, excuse me."

Tears stung her eyes, but her heart soared. She ran to the door, collapsing into Mark's chest hugging him with all her might.

"You okay, sweet pea?"

Hayden nodded. But that was a lie. Nothing was okay. She shook her head. "This is such a mess, Mark. Everything is ruined. I got pulled over by Marr on the way in. He practically called me a whore. No, scratch that, he did call me a whore. Then I spent the afternoon watching Tag look like death warmed over. What will happen if he dies?"

"What will happen if he lives?"

"Mark, don't say that."

He shrugged. "Darlin' as of right now, it looks like you're damned if he do live; damned if he don't."

"It's a mess. My life is a mess." Hayden blinked back tears. "Why does it have to be so complicated? I was happy. We were happy, Cam and me." She lowered her voice, "I think I'm being punished. Tag could die and all that I can think is how to make sure Cam isn't blamed. I told the doctor about Tag's drug use. I've told no one about that. He'd kill me for mentioning it to anyone."

Mark smoothed her hair and kissed the top of her head. "You're human, little chick-a-dee. You're not being punished by anyone other than your asshole ex."

"I feel so guilty. This is all my fault. I never should have called Cam. Cam wouldn't be in trouble and Tag would just be his regular train-wreck of a self."

"Shh," Mark said, his lips pressed against her forehead. He looked down at her, gave her cheek a pinch. "It's going to work out. It has to. Justice always prevails in the end. All of those fairy tales can't be wrong. Hell, even the juvenile delinquents who were taken captive by the wicked witch for eating her candy house pushed the bitch in the fire and made it back home. There is always a happy ending by the last page. Even for the less-than-perfect characters."

"Somehow, that doesn't really help." Hayden walked to the window and opened the blinds. Maybe some sunlight in the darkened room would make it less gloomy. "There are just too many things that can go wrong. Too many things I can't control."

"Is there anything I can do to help?"

Hayden thought a minute. "You could promise to keep Cam under control. He can't come here. He gets arrested in this town, I'm not sure he'll live to regret it."

Mark nodded. "That's why I'm here. He sent me to check on you. He knows he can't come himself."

"That's good. That's one worry off my list." Hayden sat in the chair and stared out the window.

"So, what have they said about Tag? About his condition?" Mark leaned forward and whispered, "Is it Cam's fault?"

"I don't know. The doctor said something about a shadow in the brain. They're running more tests. I don't get it. He was alert and fine yesterday. Bitchy, of course. Evidently felt well enough to spend last night with Brandy. I don't know what changed."

Mark rubbed his hands together and chewed on his lower lip.

Hayden knew that look. "What? You think it could be Cam's fault?"

"No, not at all. I totally believe it was self-defense. I guess I'm just worried that maybe there could be swelling or a concussion..."

"You're not helping."

"I know. I'm sorry. I googled head injury before I left. Wasn't a good idea."

Hayden groaned and dropped herself in the seat.

#  CHAPTER 38

Cam paced the lawyer's office. This was his third lawyer today. Once he talked Mark into checking on Hayden, he started calling law firms. So far, he hadn't had much luck. Then he called Rudy. Football players were known for getting out of trouble. His instinct was right. Rudy did have a guy he recommended as, 'knowing his shit'. Cam hoped he was right.

"Sit, Cameron," his mother said from one of the fancy leather seats in the waiting area. Those seats gave Cam hope. They were real leather. The tables were real wood. That meant the guy charged a fortune, which in turn meant he must be winning...a lot.

"I don't want to sit."

"You're making me nervous."

"I didn't ask you to come."

"You're my son. I was worried about you."

"I'm fine."

Mary hmphed. "This has been a lot of drama for one woman. You could have practically any—"

Cam glared. He wasn't about to be baited into a yelling match in public, which was probably why this conversation was happening here and now. "I don't want another woman."

Mary shrugged. "You've lost your job. Your entire family is mad at you. You could go to jail or spend all of your money avoiding it. And for what? An overly complicated ready-made family? You deserve better."

"You can leave." Cam nodded toward the door. "I won't stop you."

His mother's eyes filled with tears. "I'm here to help you."

"Well, you're not."

"I just don't understand. Explain it to me. What has your obsession with Hayden ever gotten you, besides heartache?"

"Obsession?"

"Yes." She added a nod as if for emphasis. "She's like forbidden fruit. The one girl you can't have, so she's taken on a mystical quality. But trust me, I can see her clearly. She will be a continual hurt. She will go back to Tag, one day. Mark my words. No matter how much she loves you, in the end, she will not break up her family."

"Are you speaking from experience?"

His mother's mouth dropped open. It took her several long seconds to recover enough to add, "Your father is a liar. I did nothing. I have never, ever strayed from my vows."

"Damn. That's noble."

His mother stood. Her cheeks flushed then filled with color. "Fine. Be a fool. I am only trying to help you. But if you're going to act like your father with your idiotic notions and justifications for thinking with your—" Mary gripped her purse so hard her knuckles turned white. "Let's just say, you're not using your head." She stomped toward the door. Cam didn't offer to stop her. He'd much rather be alone than be lectured. At the door, his mother shook her head and said over her shoulder, "Love. More like ridiculousness." Then she was gone.

Cam sighed. After she left, he took her seat. He only had a second to wonder if he should go after her when a young man in a suit came to the doorway that connected the offices to the waiting area. "Mr. Vorelli? Mr. Duncan will see you now."

Oliver Duncan's office looked out over Pittsburgh. Huge windows offered a view of the rivers that hugged solid buildings made of steel and stone. Duncan himself was a middle-aged man, short with thinning hair. His shirt was rumpled, as if he'd slept in it. Cam started to doubt the man's power status.

"Have a seat, Mr. Vorelli."

Cam sat. The man tapped the file on his desk. "I've looked over your case. I've got one concern—how much can you trust the woman? Who's side will she stay on? Of everything here, her restraining order against you will be the hardest to explain, unless she's the one to explain it."

"He blackmailed her. She signed it to get me out of jail. What he's doing has to be illegal. He's forcing her to stay with him by threatening to put me in jail. That can't be legal."

"Unethical. Not so much illegal. Ever seen the movie, _Rambo_?"

Cam nodded.

"Same idea. You committed a felony assault against a police officer. In the eyes of the law, he is offering you amnesty. Cutting you a break in return for you staying out of town and leaving his family alone."

"It's blackmail. Amnesty? That's total bullshit." Cam shifted in his chair. "I can't believe he's going to get away with this shit."

"Now, hold on son, I never said he'd get away with it. If we can trust the woman to stay on your side and you can guarantee you can keep the temper in check—then you go back to that town and let him play his hand. But I'm warning you, if she waffles, and son, they often do—they are in love, but as soon as the ex starts to suffer, they get all pitiful and protective and then you're up shit creek. Or if you get pissed and punch another cop. You're going to do hard time, if you survive the arrest."

"I can't file anything against him?"

Duncan shook his head. "He cut you a break. On the surface, it looks like you had an affair with his wife that turned to obsession and he is protecting his family, while still offering you a way out of jail. If you want to save yourself a bundle of money, stay out of Hazelton. Stay away from the wife."

"Ex-wife. They're divorced."

Duncan nodded. "Fine, ex-wife. If we can get her to say he's blackmailing her, we have something against him."

"He's violent with her too. That's why she fears him."

"Well then, son, if you want to tell him to go screw himself, I think it's a fight we can win before a jury. Just be sure to let me know what you choose to do. And witnesses would help, preferably the trustworthy kind. I wouldn't go back to that town alone."

Cam nodded. He needed to stop his mom from leaving.

"And keep me informed in real time. We don't want you falling down some steps at the jail and breaking your neck before I have a chance to intervene. You see blue lights; I better be your first call."

Cam thanked the man and left. He didn't have to call his mom. She was waiting by his car. "Well? Did he have a solution?"

"Yep. He suggests I get arrested and trust the jury to take pity on Hayden and me."

His mother gasped. "That is absolutely ridiculous. You can't possibly be considering it?"

"Well, if I was like you, I'd cut my losses, forget about love, and head to Europe with Shelley, but I'm finding I'm more like my dad than I thought. Tag wants a fight; he'll get a fight."

Mary gave him a sidelong look. "What's that supposed to mean?"

"It means I'm not tucking tail. I'm going home."

Mary frowned; her face pinched. "We'll get back to that insanity later. I meant, what do you mean if you were like me?"

Cam fished his keys out of his pocket. "Dad told me why you married him."

"And why was that, I wonder?"

"Because you couldn't get the guy you wanted. Dad filled the spot in a pinch."

"That's a horrible thing to say, Cameron. I can't believe you've gotten so mean. You truly are a Vorelli."

"Tell me I'm wrong. Tell me you loved him."

Mary's pinched face squeezed to full pucker before she burst into tears. "You're mean. Just like your father. I never thought I'd live to see the day."

Cam sighed. He pulled her in for a hug. "I'm sorry. That was mean. I'm—" he patted her hair. "I'm tired. I'm frustrated. And I'm taking it out on you. Come on, I'll buy you lunch."

"I'm not hungry."

"I'm really sorry. You're my mom; you have to love me no matter what. Even when I'm a jerk. It's in the rules."

Mary chuckled between her sniffles. "I suppose you're right."

"So, you'll have lunch with me? I could use the company."

She wiped away her tears and nodded. "Yes, of course."

She handed Cam her keys. "You drive. This traffic about gives me a heart attack."

In the car, Mary cleared her throat, wrung her hands, and said, "You know, Cam, I was only eighteen when I married your dad. I'm not sure I even knew what love was. It was probably more like lust."

Cam cringed and his face scrunched. His mother laughed as she pulled a tissue from her purse and blew her nose. "That's what you get for sticking your nose in my business. Keep it up and I've got more to share."

Cam shook his head. "Point taken." He looked across at his mom. She was in her forties but acted like she was ready for the retirement home. There was little joy in her life, aside from reality shows. "Mom?"

She gave him a raised eyebrow, "Yes?"

"Wouldn't you rather be happy than be dedicated?"

Mary shrugged. "I don't know how a woman could be happy knowing that she failed the one thing the good Lord put her on this earth to do." She sighed. "And Hayden is a lot like me. She will do what is right in the end. She was raised in a good home."

#  CHAPTER 39

Hayden waited by herself in the hospital room. Orderlies came earlier and took Tag for more tests and Mark left shortly after that. She wanted to keep Mark with her, for moral and possibly physical support should Connie sober up and come for a visit, but she needed him to pick up Lily. Her sister had been a good sport while public sentiment was on her side, but now that word was out that Tag could be ringing death's doorbell—all because of his wife's angry boyfriend—Harris was back to pressuring her to forget about Cam and concentrate on her _marriage_.

Harris called her after returning home from the funeral dinner to offer her change of view and a heavy dose of guilt. Frustrated, Hayden hung up on her. Her sister immediately called back, mad as hell after spending a whole night babysitting while Hayden did what exactly? Hayden thanked her for watching Lily and assured her she'd not be her problem any longer. Then she sent Mark to pick the little girl up. He'd watch Lily without the lectures and the guilt.

Hayden tried to get comfortable in the hospital chair, but it was nearly impossible. She looked at her phone. Tag had been gone for almost three hours. The idea of sneaking out to the vending machine appealed to her, but the idea was forgotten when she heard a commotion in the hall.

Hayden stood and peaked out the door. The orderlies were rolling Tag down the hall toward her. As they maneuvered the bed back into the room, Tag gave her a wink. She breathed a sigh of relief that he was more alert now, though he did still look like hell. Dark circles ringed bloodshot eyes, but he was finally awake.

Once they had him settled back in his room, the orderlies left. Hayden stood beside his bed. "Good to see you awake. You feeling any better?"

He ran a hand through his hair. "I've got a hell of a headache. And holy shit, am I tired."

"Did they give you any idea what could be wrong?"

"You mean is it anything that might not be Cam's fault?"

Hayden shook her head. "I wasn't trying to start a fight. I was just asking if they knew what was wrong."

Tag adjusted himself in the bed. "What's wrong is that my best friend, my own damned blood, busted my skull over my whore of a wife."

Hayden grabbed her purse. Staying was obviously a mistake.

"Tell me, were you screwing Cam while we were married?"

"We've already had this conversation." She grabbed her jacket off the chair.

"Well, we're having it again."

Hayden shook her head.

"Tell me how it happened. Maybe if I understood."

Hayden bit her lip. She knew he had no interest in the truth. But she couldn't exactly fight him.

"The night the divorce was final, you two just happened to bump into each other and decide to get it on?"

"Why do you have to be so crude?"

Tag laughed, but it wasn't a pleasant sound. "I just want to know—did you ruin our family for a quick piece of ass or is this something?"

"You know me better than that."

"I thought I did."

Hayden walked to the door. "You know, I only came here to see if you were okay and try to make peace. I don't know what the hell I was thinking. There can be no peace with you—not as long as you're obsessed with Cam."

"Obsessed with Cam?"

"Yes. With Cam. You can't get past your little-man pissing match with him. I think you know you've never measured up. That you could never be half the man he is, so you try to tear him down like a jealous little brat."

"Wait, a minute. Cam screws my wife and I'm the jealous brat?"

"Be honest. Your problem isn't with me. You don't really give a damn what I do. You have never been jealous until now. If I had been with any other guy, we wouldn't be having this problem."

"Bullshit. I could trust you until now."

"You were fine with the divorce until you found out I was with Cam."

"No shit, you stupid bitch. That's when I realized you two were screwing around behind my back. Do you seriously think I'm going to buy that the day our fucking divorce was signed that you two started this bullshit? I was staying with him, Hayden. Living under his roof telling him my problems with my wife. And oh boy, let me tell you, he was all for me letting you go. That was his advice to me—let it go. My wife, my kid, my family. Just walk away, that's what he told me. Now, I know why. That's what pisses me off."

Hayden swallowed. Tears stung her eyes. "That's not how it was. I was leaving you regardless. I called Cam to give me a ride because I was afraid of you. I was afraid of what would happen if you caught me leaving town. That's why I involved Cam."

"And it just had to be Cam, right? Not your dad or your fag friend. It had to be my cousin."

"I knew you were afraid of him."

Tag's head shook back and forth and his eyes narrowed to slits. "You get the fuck out of here."

"That's what I've been trying to do." Two steps toward the door, she thought of Cam getting arrested again. It was liberating to speak her mind, but what was she thinking? She would get Cam killed. She turned back to Tag. "I am sorry we hurt you."

"Fuck you. Sorry I got hurt." He glared at her. There was no doubt in her mind, if he had the energy, he'd gladly choke the life out of her.

"I am sorry for that. I wish I could have fallen for any other guy but him, but I can't control that. We tried to do this without hurting you."

"You tried, huh?" Tag's body sagged against the pillows. His sadness looked legit. Hayden almost felt bad for him.

"Well, you failed," Tag said.

"I'm sorry. If I could fix that..."

"Stop seeing him."

Hayden shook her head. "You've got to get past this."

"You're full of shit if you think I will ever let this happen."

"This effort to tear us apart...who are you punishing? Him or me?"

"Both of you." Tag's words bounced off the bare, white walls. "I want you both to suffer. You two together leaves me with what? I'm out a wife and a best friend. Not to mention, I look like an idiot to everyone."

Hayden couldn't stop the smirk. Her life was being ripped apart as a salve to Tag's vanity was too much. "At least by acting like a vindictive, jealous ass, you've saved your dignity."

Tag stared at her. His face full of fury.

Hayden stared back. Jaw clenched, face tense, she refused to let him make her look away.

He dropped his head against his pillow and closed his eyes.

Slowly, her anger drained to a simmer. She licked dry lips. "Don't you see, by trying to keep us apart with all these games, it only makes you look pathetic? And you never would have lost Cam if you'd just backed off. Let this go. Stop looking like a fool." Hayden softened her tone. "You and I will never, ever get back together. Never. But we'll always have Lily. We can't be parents if we're at each other's throats at every occasion."

Tag said nothing, which Hayden took as a small win. Maybe he was listening. "And do you really think if I leave Cam, he'll forgive you? If you ever want him to stay in your life, you have to stop this."

"Do you think I give a damn if I'm ever friends with that son of a bitch again? You're going to suffer for this, Hayden. You and my rat-bastard cousin. Trust me, he will never have you. And if you want to keep his ass out of jail, you'll stay the hell away from him."

"What the hell is wrong with you?" Hayden understood how people could get so angry they could murder someone. Her body shook and her voice quivered in a shrill hiss. "You're a hateful, petty asshole of a human being. You don't love me. Don't even pretend you do. This is all spite."

"One-hundred percent."

Hayden spun and marched toward the door.

"Where you going?"

"Anywhere but here."

"Think of Cam. I can have a warrant for his arrest in one phone call."

Hayden stopped. She tried to even out her breathing with some long, deep breaths.

"Come back in here, so we can talk. Like civilized people."

Hayden turned back into the room closing the space between them in a few steps. "I hate you."

"Fine line between love and hate, sweetheart."

Hayden swung her purse at him, bashing him in the shoulder and ripping the thin leather strap from her bag.

Tag laughed. "You always were a sexy little spitfire."

"Hello," Mary said from the door. "Am I interrupting?"

Hayden's cheeks burned, her eyes glistened with furious tears. Like Mary didn't already hate her enough, she had to come in while she was beating on a sick man in a hospital bed. "No," she tried to smile. "Just Tag being his usual pleasant self." Hayden tucked her now broken purse under her arm. "I'm going to go get coffee. I'll let you two visit."

"Sit, Hayden," Tag ordered.

She jutted out her chin and leaned against the wall. Arms crossed over her chest.

Mary's smile looked shaky. Her voice was high and squeaky. "I hope I'm not interrupting."

"Not at all," Tag said. "I'm always happy to see my favorite aunt."

Mary smiled and shot a look at Hayden over her shoulder before turning her attention to Tag. "How are you doing today, dear?"

"Head's sore. I keep blacking out, probably from all the abuse from the adulterers in my life. Did you see Hayden hitting me when you came in? I think she's here on Cam's behalf to finish me off."

Mary patted his leg like he was a wayward pup. "Oh now, Tag. That's just silly." Mary shook her head and gave him a half smile. "You know, all of this is just one big misunderstanding. I told Cam we can get this worked out if we just use reasonable heads."

"Tell your son to back off my family and we won't have a problem."

"Oh now, Tag, Cam doesn't want to tear up your family. This is just a thing. That happens in marriages sometimes. You'll get past it."

Tag chuckled. "Hear that, Hayden? You're just a thing."

Mary pressed a loose curl against the side of her head. "Oh now, I didn't mean that. I just... I'm just sure in the long run, Cam would rather not break up a family."

"That's where you're wrong. You don't even know your own son, Aunt Mary. Tearing up my family has been his goal since our wedding."

"That is not true. None of this is Cam's fault. This has been," Mary swallowed, "one big mistake. One I'm sure Cam will rectify if you would just forgive him. You two are cousins and you love each other. You don't really want him to go to jail, do you?"

"He won't go to jail, if he's smart and stays away from my family. You should understand that, Aunt Mary. Marriage is a sacred bond."

"That it is." Mary fiddled with the ring on her finger a second before she sighed and said, "What if I told you I thought Cam might go to Europe? Would that end this foolishness?"

"That would definitely change things," Tag sat up straighter. "But come on, Aunt Mary, let's be real here, do you really think he'd ever leave town now? Leave the best little piece of ass he's probably ever had?" Tag winked at Hayden. "I should know, right, Hayden?"

Hayden wanted to tell him to go to hell. Then storm out of the room. But she was dumbstruck. She couldn't formulate a single thought. Mary's words kept running through her head. Cam was going to Europe?

Mary looked to Hayden before turning back to Tag. "Really, Tag. You shouldn't say such things. Not about your—well, she's still the mother of your child."

"Sorry, Hayden," he said then looked up at Mary and smiled. "Is that better?"

"Much. See? I knew you were a good boy."

Hayden took a slow suck of air and tried her damnedest not to roll her eyes. Good boy. Was this woman a complete and total idiot?

"Listen, sweetie," Mary said to Tag. "Cam is beside himself. He's lost so much over this already. His job. Most of his family. I think he's realizing he made a mistake."

"A mistake, huh?" Tag stared at Hayden. "Are you serious about him leaving town? Hell, the country."

"He realizes he has two choices. He can either stay here and get arrested, forcing him to hire an attorney—which will certainly leave him broke—or leave and get a fresh start."

"That crazy bastard thinks he can beat an assault against an officer charge, doesn't he? Has he gone completely insane? That's what's going on, isn't it? Because there's no way in hell I'm buying that he's giving up. Vorelli's don't waive white flags. He'll fight me for the bitch now whether he wants her or not on principle alone. Jesus, Aunt Mary. How long have you been married to a Vorelli? The fight is half the fun."

Mary wrung her hands and looked to Hayden. "I'm just saying, if someone could convince him he was better off to let this whole business go, then he could leave the country, and move on before he's hurt any further."

Hayden bit her lip. Suddenly, she felt like she had a boulder in her stomach.

"You hear that, Hayden? If you cared about Cam, you'd talk him into leaving." Tag looked at his aunt. "Is that what you're saying, Aunt Mary?"

"It would solve a lot of problems."

"It would be the selfless thing to do. Wouldn't it?" Tag stared at Hayden. She bit her lip and shook her head. He was a mean, hateful, awful person. How could she ever have loved him?

He turned his gaze to Mary. "So, why Europe? He better not be thinking that he and Hayden can run off and take my daughter. I will kill the son of a bitch if he even tries that shit."

Mary gasped. "Oh, no, no. He'd never do that. Shelley asked him to go to Europe, and he said, 'if he was smart, he'd take her up on that offer' and leave all this headache behind him. And that is a direct quote."

Hayden couldn't hear anymore. She felt sick, dizzy. She leaned against the wall and took a deep breath. There were so many emotions coursing through her she couldn't focus on a single one. Anger, hurt, jealousy, fear. It hurt. There was a pain in her chest that made breathing difficult.

"You look so tired, dear." Mary stood over her. "You should let this go. Let Cam go. This is ruining all of your lives."

Hayden heard Mary's words and guilt piled on top of all the other feelings. Was she wrong to want to be with him? If she did tell him it was over, would it help him or hurt him even more? Or maybe it didn't matter what she thought. Maybe he was tiring of her baggage and all the drama she brought to the relationship. Was that why he was considering going with Shelley? She closed her eyes and took a deep breath. Mary was a heartless, meddling prig, but she wasn't a liar. Cam had to have said it. Her hands shook.

"Hayden? Seriously, sweetheart, you are pale as a ghost. You should at least go home and get some rest."

"I don't know," Hayden mumbled Where was home? The last time she went home, she lost the boxing match. But she couldn't stay in the room, so she walked out the door and down the hall.

"Hayden," Mary said, walking up behind. "Is all of this worth it? For a fling?"

Hayden didn't answer. One foot in front of the other, she kept walking. That was all she knew to do. 

#  CHAPTER 40

Hayden tried to block out Mary's words, but the woman kept pace behind her.

"You say you love him. Prove it by doing what's right for him."

Hayden took a deep breath. About to turn and tell the woman she didn't know what the hell she was talking about when Mary's phone chimed. She flipped it over and read the message. Her face set with puckered lips and pinched brows. "He's been arrested. It's part of his fool plan to sort this mess out and it will not work. He will end up broke and in prison. Is that really what you want for him?"

"No. Of course not."

"Then fix it." Mary glared at Hayden.

"I'm trying," Hayden whispered.

"Try harder because I swear, if something happens to my son, it's your fault. All you have to do is tell him to move on with his life. If you don't you're a selfish, selfish woman."

Hayden's head swam. She didn't understand what was going on—what this _plan_ was. "He promised he'd stay in Pittsburgh."

"He made me drive him back. I dropped him off at his house."

"Why? Why would he do that?"

"Because he insisted. He has this ridiculous idea that he can win this in court. But you and I both know that's insanity. I hoped I could talk sense into you before he got arrested. Seems I was wrong."

"I need to talk to Tag. He said if... I... I have to get back to him. I need to talk to him. I'll fix this; I swear."

"If you want to fix it, tell my son to move on before he ruins his life."

Hayden nodded. It was a robotic response. She couldn't think. This was bizarre. Tag didn't love her, but he'd make her stay with him out of spite. Cam did love her—so much so that he'd ruin his entire life. Tears burned her eyes. Mary was right. If she loved him, she'd cut him loose. Protect him from his own valiant nature.

Dazed, Hayden made her way back to Tag's room.

"Did you have Cam arrested?" Hayden asked standing over his bed.

"I don't know what the fuck you're talking about. I've been here all day, remember?"

"Mary just got a call. Someone arrested Cam."

"Here? In Hazelton?"

"Yes, I assume. She said it was my fault."

"Stupid fucker. He knew the risk of coming back to town. It seems he wants the challenge. And if I file the charges against him, he'll regret it."

"Tell them to let him go. They'll listen to you."

"Why should I?"

"I'm here with you. That should count for something. Please, you have to let this go. Tell them to let Cam go."

"You'll stay with me?"

Hayden nodded.

"Give me your word. This shit with Cam is over."

Hayden bit her lip.

"Promise me, or I swear to God, he'll probably fall down a flight of stairs tonight. Break his damned thick skull."

Hayden didn't get to answer his question. There was a knock on the door. Hayden wanted to scream at whoever it was to go away, but she took a deep breath and turned to the sound. It was the doctor from earlier, Dr. Reed. He stepped into the room and closed the door behind him. He looked at Hayden, then at Tag. His face looked pained, like he was about to face a firing squad.

"We got the preliminary tests back," the doctor said.

"And?" Tag asked. Tag looked weary, like he hadn't just slept all day.

The doctor took a deep breath. "The results aren't good."

"It isn't the head injury, is it?" Hayden asked.

"Son of a bitch, Hayden." Tag shook his head. "Is Cam all you can think about?"

Heat poured to her cheeks. She rubbed the back of her neck and sat in her chair.

"Mr. Matthews, that shadowy spot we were talking about earlier is a mass on your brain. That's probably what's causing the blackouts and the dizziness."

"A mass, like a bruise?" she asked.

Tag glared at her.

"No, nothing like that. It's a solid mass. I sent your tests to an oncologist at Ruby who suggested we were looking at a possible gliomatosis cerebri."

"And that's what?" Tag asked.

The doctor handed Tag a paper and explained the diagnosis in a lot of medical jargon, statistics, and a prognosis that was in the teens. None of it sounded good. In the end, Tag's only hope, the doctor said, was to get into a clinical trial. Hayden chewed on her thumbnail. Sure, she wanted to kill Tag at times, but she didn't want him dead. Not really.

"So, these trials—how do I get into one?"

"I've already contacted a few. The national cancer center is doing some and they have an opening in Houston."

"Houston? Like in Texas?"

Dr. Reed nodded.

"I can't go to Texas," Tag said. "Can't I get something around here? Some radiation or chemo?"

"If it's what Dr. Malcom at Ruby thinks it is," Dr. Reed said. "There are only a few hundred cases of it, so not everyone treats it. Around here, we can guess at what to do, but your chances of surviving the year are slim. With the right kind of treatment, your prognosis is much better."

"When you say much better, how much better?"

Dr. Reed shifted from one leg to another. "There's about a twenty percent survival rate."

"Holy shit," Tag dropped his head against his pillow.

Dr. Reed laid the papers on the tray table. "Here's the information. I'll let you guys look it over and decide. I highly recommend going to Houston. They're topnotch."

"How can you tell from one test? Shouldn't they do more tests?"

"Gliomatosis has a unique, fluffy kind of tumor pattern on an MRI. And look at it this way, if we're wrong, you got a trip to Texas. If we're right, you'll in the best place for treatment."

Tag's eyes were glassy. He shook his head. "Isn't this a kick in the ass."

"I'll leave you two to talk this over. Someone from the social work department is available if you need—"

"I don't need a head shrink."

Dr. Reed excused himself and left.

Hayden and Tag sat in silence for several minutes. Tag broke the silence. "Seems you got your wish to get rid of me."

"I don't want you dead. I only wanted to be happy."

"You can be happy now."

Hayden stood and paced. "This doesn't make me happy. My God, what kind of monster do you take me for? I'm not the one who beat you or forced you to stay with me. That was all you. I will do this as friends, but no—you had to make it a fight. You were more worried about some lifelong pissing match you have going with Cam. A situation that is totally one-sided mind you, because he's—"

"Perfect. God dammit, I know how perfect Cam is. I've heard it my entire life. I'm the fuck up."

Hayden swallowed. "Tag, you're not a screwup. At least not completely."

Tag gave her a look, shook his head, and covered his eyes with his arm. "Go. Leave me here alone."

Hayden moved from the chair to the bed. She sat at his feet and patted his ankle. "Listen to me, Tag. You're not a bad person. You've just got to let go of this anger. You will not stop me from wanting Cam by making it impossible. I love him."

"I don't give a shit what you want. I get told I probably have cancer in my brain and you're still babbling on about what you want? You're a selfish bitch. I ought to call right now and file the charges against him. If I've got to die of cancer, he can die—"

"You promised you'd help him."

"Remind me again, what was our deal?"

Hayden looked at her hands. "I'll stay with you."

"And you'll leave Cam. And to keep his dumbass from doing anything stupid, you'll tell him this is your idea. That my impending cancer has you feeling softer toward me."

"I won't tell him that. I can't hurt him like that."

Tag glared at her.

"But I will promise to go with you to Texas. Lily and I. That way, if this is bad, you'll get to be with her. If that's not good enough, then she and I will stay here, and you can just pray to God the treatment works if you ever want to see her again."

Tag whistled. "Well, I'll be damned. Going to play hardball with me, huh?"

"Seems like you need me for a favor too."

"Fine. You and Lily come with me to Texas for the whole time I'm there. Promise me?"

"I promise."

"No Cam. I don't want him there."

Hayden took a deep breath. "You touch me, I will shoot you. You will never, ever put your hands on me again. Do we understand?"

"I won't touch you. Not in anger, I swear."

"Not in any way."

Tag nodded. "Fine."

"Now, get Cam out of jail."

Tag took a deep breath. "Fine."

Hayden held her breath. Treatment would take how long, two- three months? By that time, Tag should either have calmed down, look seriously petty to wait that long to file charges, or be dead. 

#  CHAPTER 41

Cam stepped out of Hazelton city jail for the second time in a week. The night air was cool and crisp, but he still felt overly warm from the aggravation of the most asinine, pointless interrogation on this earth. Marr forgot that Cam's restriction on returning to Hazelton depended on Tag filing charges against him. In his eagerness to get revenge on behalf of his fellow officer, he arrested Cam, who was simply walking up and down the street in front of the police station.

Marr had no idea what to charge him with, so the two men sat in a tiny, windowless room for an hour while Marr tried to coax Cam into taking a swing at him. Cam would have been more than happy to oblige him, but the irritation he caused Marr by staying calm was too good to waste on instant satisfaction.

Then as quickly as the bullshit started, it stopped. One phone call from Tag and he was free. That fact pissed Cam off worse than the two hours of nonsense with Marr. Ever since he was told he could go, the thought of what Hayden might have sacrificed to make it happen made his gut twist. Maybe she sweet-talked him, but even that didn't sit well. He'd been looking forward to the chance to get Tag's ass fired. As it was, he didn't even get to call his attorney to start the process.

Now, here he was standing on Main Street. His first call was to Hayden. It went to voicemail. He gripped the phone harder and asked, "Hayden, baby, what did you do? Please, call me."

With his car still in the impound, his next call was to his parents for a ride.

Neither answered.

Cam was about to call Shelley when Hayden pulled up. She was alone. She smiled at him and he felt a rush of relief and smiled back. She rolled down the passenger window and called, "Hey stranger, need a lift?"

"I do." He climbed in and shut the door. "How did you know?"

"I was there when Tag called. I thought I'd check and see if you were still in one piece."

"I'm fine, for now. Unless I get arrested for being in your car?"

Hayden shook her head, her silky brown hair sliding over her shoulder. "It's over. Tag is letting it go."

"Why?" His spine stiffened, heart raced. There was no way Tag was giving up on Hayden. Not without a fight. Or a concession on her part. "Don't tell me you guys—"

"Oh God, no. Have a little faith in me."

Then it was a trick. Cam looked over his shoulder for blue lights. Maybe he'd get his chance to take this to court after all.

Hayden put the car in drive and rolled away from the station. She drove to his apartment. She parked the car in his drive before turning to him. "Tag is sick."

"No shit. I could have told you that."

"No, I mean, he is really sick. He has cancer. A geoplasm or something."

Cam nodded. Seemed like a highly convenient time to get cancer—when you're trying to keep your ex any way you can. "Too bad for him."

"He's terrified. Seems it's a very rare kind of cancer. He has to go to Texas to get treatment."

Now, there was some good news.

Before Cam could fully enjoy the idea of Tag going a few thousand miles away, Hayden added, "And I agreed to go with him, so he isn't alone—in case it doesn't work and he, you know...doesn't make it."

"You're doing what?" Cam's words came out harsh, and he regretted them as soon as they left his mouth.

"I'm doing it for Lily," she answered in a low, steady voice.

It wasn't her words that made Cam's entire body tense. It was the quiet end-of-discussion tone that bothered him. "You've got to be joking," he said. "After everything he's done, you're going back to him?"

She grabbed his hand. He jerked it away, but she kept hold of his wrist. "I'm not going back to him. I'm just helping him. For Lily. They said he could die."

"Who's they?"

"The doctors."

"How the hell do they know that? He's been in there what, two days total? They haven't even had time to run tests. This is a bunch of bullshit he's concocted to get you back and you're falling for it."

"I'm not falling for anything. I was there. I talked to the doctor. It's a rare kind of cancer. They know because it looks fluffy or something in the tests."

Cam shook his head. "Still calling bullshit. This is manipulation—a lie to keep you."

"It's for real, Cam." She inched her hand up his wrist until she was holding his hand in hers. "I love you and I want to be with you, but this is something I have to do."

"Is he blackmailing you again?"

Hayden took a slow suck of breath. "No. This was my idea."

"Your idea? Are you nuts? After what he did to you?"

"He promised it won't happen again."

"Oh, well, if he promised." Cam thought his brain would explode. "This is the stupidest damn thing I've ever heard of. It's obviously something you want to do and evidently it's a choice you made without talking to me or giving a damn what I think about it."

"I didn't think it would be a problem. It's a peaceful solution. He got you out of jail."

"I don't want any damned favors from him. I can fight him."

"At what cost? This is the smarter way. It's a compromise."

"A compromise? He beat you. You're not even healed from it and you're compromising with him? The hell with him. Damn it, Hayden. You're smarter than this. Tag has done everything he can think of to keep us apart. Now this? I'm supposed to buy that he needs you to go ten states away because he's dying? How convenient."

"He wants to be with Lily during his treatment, which is understandable, so I offered to go."

Cam ran a hand through his hair. "You're a fool if you think this is anything but a game. You can't do it."

"I wasn't asking for permission."

Cam's laugh was harsh. "Really? After everything I've been through, everything I've lost—you're going to take that kind of attitude? What I think doesn't matter—a big FU to me."

"It matters. But trust me, this is the smarter way to deal with this."

"This is bullshit. I deserve a say in this and I say I don't want you to go. Not with him. Not now."

"I have to. For Lily. If her father only has months or God forbid, days to live, she should get to be with him."

"Real convenient."

"No, it's not the least bit convenient. But it's a responsibility I can't walk away from."

"He's not your responsibility. You divorced him, or was that fake too?"

"Come on, Cam. What's that supposed to mean? Did I fake what? The divorce? You're being ridiculous."

"I'm being ridiculous?" Cam shook his head. "What if I told you I was going with Shelley to Poland, but it's just for work?"

Hayden's heart skipped a beat. "So, she really is going to Europe?"

"You didn't answer the question."

"It's not a fair question."

"Yes, it is. Would you consider us having a snowball's chance of making this relationship work if I was planning to go with Shelley?'

"She's not dying. And you don't have a child with her that you have to consider."

"He hit you. Left you bleeding, bruised, and unconscious. But none of that matters now."

"That could have been the tumor. Maybe it was causing—"

"Don't you dare make justifications for that son of a bitch."

"I'm not. I'm just saying a brain tumor could affect behavior."

"That's you making an excuse for him, as usual." Cam knew this was how it started with Tag and her. She'd get pissed and say she was done, then she'd feel guilty, make excuses for him they'd get back together and he'd be left gutted and bleeding. No more. He'd wasted enough of his life waiting on her.

"I love you, Cam. I want to be with you."

"Just not right now?" His laugh was bitter. "I'm not playing these games, Hayden. Choose. It's me or it's Tag. I'm not sitting around while you play nursemaid... waiting and hoping that you come back to me."

"I told you—I love you. I'm not leaving you."

"The hell you aren't. You are literally leaving the state with your ex. Tell me how that's not leaving me?"

"Because I'll be back."

"No. Make a choice."

"Don't give me an ultimatum. That's not fair."

"It is what it is. You have a choice."

"No, not really. I can't just let him die alone."

Tears rolled down her cheeks. Cam felt a tug of pity for her position, but then he thought of the cuts and bruises on her body that hadn't even had time to heal. He thought about what a lying piece of shit Tag could be. Cam knew Tag would use her big heart against her. He wrapped his hand in her hair and pulled her close. He rested his lips against her forehead. "Don't leave me."

She held his face in her hands and kissed him. It felt so right. Nothing would stop him from loving her. She could defy him day after day, but as long as she'd come to him in the end, did he care? He deepened the kiss, pulling her tighter to him and she flinched.

The arm. He'd forgotten the arm. The one that Tag tried to break in his fury. What else would he do to her? What lengths would he go to tie her to him? Cam's heart felt like it was splitting in two. He could not let her go. "Please," he held his hands against smooth, soft cheeks dampened with tears. She was too trusting. Too committed to a man who deserved no part of her. "Please, don't do this to us."

"I have to."

He couldn't make it easy on Hayden. As much as it hurt, he had to make her choose. If not, the rest of their lives would be this kind of drama. They'd have no peace, much less a happy ending.

"Stay with me. I won't ask again."

"You have to trust me. Trust that I would never do anything to hurt you."

Her phone rang. Stopped. Then rang again. And again. Cam pulled it from her jacket pocket. It was Tag. He handed it to her. She shook her head and answered. "What?" she asked, eyes closed. Her head dipped as if weary. "Yes, I heard." She clenched her jaw. After she hung up, she turned to Cam. "I've got to go."

"So, it begins. What does he want?"

"He says they have his medical transport ready."

"In the middle of the night?"

"I don't know. I suppose I have to go check."

"Will you come back? Stay with me tonight?"

Fresh tears rolled from her eyes. "I can't. I have to get things ready to go."

Cam nodded and grabbed the door handle.

She clutched his arm. "I love you, Cam. You know that."

He shook his head. "No, Hayden. I can't say that I do know that."

"I do. More than anything."

"Keep reminding yourself that."

"This isn't fair."

"On that, we agree. Now, I think we're done here. You need to get going."

He let himself out of the car with icy fingers. The desire to turn and look at her nearly killed him, but he resisted. He opened his apartment door and slammed it behind him. The place was empty and cold. Loneliness hit him in the gut.

"French Fry?"

Silence.

"Where the hell is my dog?"

#  CHAPTER 42

Cam's mom was the first to return his call. For a woman who knew her son was in jail, she sure took her time to pick up a phone.

"Do you know where my dog is?"

"Your dog? Are you home?"

"Yeah, and I want my dog. You know, furry thing with the wagging tail?"

"Oh, the dog. I don't know."

"Does Dad have him?"

"Hold on—Cliff, do you have Cam's dog?"

There was a pause and muffled voices. Then she said, "No, he doesn't have a clue. Honestly, we both forgot you even had the dog. Did you hear about Tag?"

"I heard." He didn't want to hear it again, especially with his mother oozing sympathy and worry. "So, it's true?" he asked.

"Unfortunately, yes."

"You sure he's not making it up?"

"Making it up? Who would do that?"

"A psycho. Tag pretty well fits the profile."

"Cameron James, you did not just say that. He could die."

"Sucks to be him."

"That is enough. This, this feuding bull malarkey needs to be done. You go right now and visit your cousin. He needs support."

"No, he doesn't. He has Hayden to make him feel better."

"Is that what this is about? Seriously, Cam, she's his wife."

"Ex-wife."

"I told you in the very beginning that this would happen, but you didn't listen to me. I tried to save you the heartache of them getting back together and you being left with what? No job, a criminal record... how much did you have to pay all of those attorneys? My goodness, you didn't even get to say goodbye to your grandmother. All for what?"

"I don't want to talk about this."

"You don't have to talk, but you have to think. Use your head. She need not go with him, you know. Your father is here packing. He's driving down in the morning so Lily can have her cat. Your father would be more than happy to stay with him while he gets treatment, but Hayden insists on going because deep down she loves him. He was her husband. The father of her child. You don't break that bond with a piece of paper."

"Tomorrow? I thought they were going tonight?"

"That would be an awful lot to get together in an evening. We're scrambling to have everything ready by tomorrow morning."

"Do you know where Hayden is now?"

"I assume at the hospital with Tag. She was there all day. Why?"

"I was curious."

"Oh Cam," his mother sighed. "If you go there, don't go making a fool out of yourself. You've had enough grief over this to last yourself a lifetime. You know the old saying, if you love something set if free. Don't get in the way and make any of this harder than it already is. She might be angry with Tag, but she loves him. You have to understand that."

Cam stared at the wall. This was unreal.

"Cam, are you listening?"

"I don't want to talk anymore. I've got to go. I need to find my dog."

"Dear, if you want to see Tag—to say goodbye—you should do it tonight. But no more drama. When I left the hospital, several officers were sitting with Tag. I'm sure they'll be in and out all evening. I don't want you to get into any more trouble."

"I'm not going over there. I don't give a damn if I ever see him again."

"Cam..."

"Don't _Cam_ me. That son of a bitch had me arrested twice and pulled a gun on me, unless you've forgotten."

"And you were released because of him. He told me he took care of all of it. He wants to make peace."

"The hell he does. He wants Hayden. It's all a game."

"Well, she is his—"

"I don't want to hear it. Don't even finish that damned sentence."

"You're too angry, Cam. It's not healthy. And you need to make things right with your cousin. He doesn't look good at all. I'm going to go to your Aunt Connie's and try to sober her up enough to take her to the hospital. She keeps saying she'll see him when he gets back. I don't think she can accept the fact that he may not come back."

"I couldn't get so lucky."

His mother gasped so hard it took her nearly a minute to return to breathing. "I cannot believe you just said that. You should take that back."

Cam hung up. He wasn't taking anything back. He was so damned angry he could barely see straight. He'd sacrificed everything for Hayden, and this was what he got in return? Her telling him, not asking, telling him she had to go with Tag?

His mother had one thing right. He sure as hell wouldn't beg. If she wanted to spend the rest of eternity with that loser, it was her choice. She knew where to find him and could have spent the night with him. She chose not to. The hell with her.

He wanted his dog.

There was only one other person he hadn't called who might give enough of a damn about him to check on the mutt. He texted Shelley.

_Have u seen my dog_

She responded in an instant _: U betcha. U home_

Yeah

_B right over_.

Relieved, he headed for the shower. He needed to get the jail stench off him. He showered fast and changed into a comfortable pair of shorts and headed to the kitchen for a beer.

A blonde head looked in his window. He pulled the door open. "Hey, Shelley."

Shelley stood there holding French Fry's leash wadded in a ball in her hand. "Hey, jailbird."

"How did you know?"

Shelley laughed. "No less than ten people texted me the gossip update. But I see you're free, so is it all taken care of?"

Cam took a deep breath. "Hell, if I know."

Shelley's eyes settled on his bare chest. She bit her lip and shrugged. "You want to talk about it?"

"Nope."

"Grab a pizza?"

Cam shook his head. "No offense, but all I really want is to go to bed."

"You do look tired. Let me grab Fry Guy for you. I put him back in the car when you didn't answer. And my key no longer worked. I'll try not to take offense at that, by the way." She laughed.

"Dad changed the locks, so Tag couldn't get in."

"Oh good. I was gonna say, most people would just ask for their key back instead of changing all the locks."

As they approached the car, French Fry freaked out, barking and scratching on your door. "I had to keep him in the car. He was freaking out. I was afraid he'd piss off your neighbors. I think he missed you."

"Glad somebody did," he muttered.

He grabbed a zip hoodie by the door and slipped his feet into a pair of loosely tied tennis shoes. He followed her to her car. When she unlocked the door, French Fry barked and charged at him licking his face and whining. He gave the dog a rub behind the ears. "Good boy. I missed you."

"I'm gonna to order you a pizza."

"I'm really not hungry. I don't want to seem ungrateful—"

"Tough." She pulled out her phone and made the call. "Large pepperoni, put it on my tab." She gave them Cam's address for the delivery and hung up. "There. At least I'll know you're fed. And don't worry. It's not my coy way of sticking around. I'm leaving. You and the mutt here can be dinner dates."

"Thanks, Shell."

Shelley gave him a kiss on the cheek. "You're welcome."

She pulled out her car keys and opened the driver's door. "Things will be all right."

"I don't know." He rubbed a hand through his hair.

Shelley turned to him, touched his arm gently. "She loves you, Cam."

"So, she says. But she's with Tag right now and all I've got is a dog and a box of pizza on its way."

Shelley sighed and leaned against her car. "What happened?"

"She said Tag has to go to Texas for treatment and she's obligated to go with him."

Shelley listened quietly. When he finished, she said, "You think this is a quid pro quo? She goes with him, you're out of jail?"

He shook his head. "No, she said this was her idea. Her choice."

"And you feel like she chose him over you?"

Cam looked out over the neighborhood. Lights were being flipped off, and the town was going dark as people headed off to bed. "She could be here with me but she's not. I asked her to stay; she told me she couldn't."

"You want me to call her? Maybe she's not telling you everything. I mean you haven't exactly shown a lot of restraint and honestly, it feels like you're just itching for a fight. If this is a peaceful solution, what's the harm in that?"

"The harm is, this is always how it goes. She'll feel sorry for him and she won't be back."

"I couldn't tell you. You're the longest commitment I've ever had and if you did half the shit to me that he's done to her, I'd take a friggin' ball bat to your head."

"That makes sense to me. She doesn't."

Shelley wrapped her arms around him and gave him a hug. "I don't know, Cam. I can't honestly say I've ever loved anyone. Or ever will. But I do know, if she screws this up, it'll be her loss. You're the best guy ever and any woman would be lucky to have you. One day, either you two will get this all sorted out or you'll meet someone who deserves you."

Cam nodded. He wished Grandma Tate was alive. She'd know how to fix this. Tears burned his eyes. As it stood, he'd played his best hand and lost.

Shelley's face softened, and she touched his face gently. "It will be all right. Maybe there is a misunderstanding. Call her."

He shook his head.

Shelley sighed. "Well, if all else fails, you can come with me to Europe. It'll be an adventure."

Cam hugged her tighter. "You're a good friend, Shell."

#  CHAPTER 43

Cam was in bed when Mark called, but he was far from asleep. His mind wouldn't let his body rest. When Cam saw Mark's number, he answered fully expected Mark to be calling with some lame explanation for Hayden choosing Tag over him. "I don't want to hear it, Mark."

"Don't want to hear what? That all of this is some serious BS?"

Cam sat up, honestly shocked. Mark was always on Hayden's side.

"Are we even sure he has cancer?" Mark asked. "I wouldn't put it past him to be faking this."

"I called a friend who works at the hospital. Seems it's for real."

"Oh. Well, when I asked what the hell was going on, she refused to even talk to me. She came in from the hospital and went straight to bed."

"She's there?"

"Well, here at Mom's. She and Lily are both here. They're leaving in the morning."

Cam's jaw clenched. There was only one reason she would not want to be with him—her loyalties were flipped. He was friend-zoned again.

"Do you want me to go see if she's awake?"

"No, leave her alone. She made her choice. I offered to let her stay here; she told me she couldn't because they were flying out in the middle of the night."

"Ouch. I'll have to ask her about that—"

"Don't mention it. We both knew this is how this would play out from the beginning. Same shit as always."

"Damn it. I warned her. I am so sick of him. Of them."

"Me too. I told her it was him or me. She chose him."

"I think you did the only thing you could. She has to choose. Play his games or move on with you. She can't have it both ways. I hate to say it, but he knows how to play her. I told her from the beginning my biggest worry was that she would end up breaking your heart because she always chooses Tag in the end. If not out of love, then out of duty and obligation."

Mark's words made his chest feel tight and left a lump in his throat that he could barely swallow past.

Mark continued, "Walking away is the only way to let her know you mean it. That you will not be her rebound or her boy toy whenever her marriage gets rocky."

Cam nodded. This wasn't what he wanted to hear, but he knew it was the truth. He licked dry lips but added nothing more to the conversation. He knew what he had to do, even if it hurt.

"It's their history," Mark went on. "She's like dealing with a drug addict."

That was all the convincing Cam needed. Staying here in this place, in this town, was killing him. He rolled out of bed and started packing. Until Hayden came to her senses, he was moving on with his life.

#  CHAPTER 44

Two months passed since they'd come to Texas. On the surface, the treatments Tag underwent for his cancer didn't appear to be working. He was still losing weight and his hair was gray and thin before its time, but the blood work looked better and he seemed to have more energy. That was all great, but they were all tiring of being in Texas. Tag and Cliff both hated the city. It was noisy and crowded. The couple of country boys craved green fields and the hum of crickets. She wanted to go home too. Not that she was tired of Houston, she simply missed Cam. She wanted to know what he was doing, though she had a pretty good guess. She'd asked her sister, Harris, if she knew anything. All she knew was Cam wasn't anywhere in town. Neither was Shelley.

Hayden considered asking Cliff but stopped herself each time. And no matter how much she prayed a conversation might naturally include an update on what he was doing, it never happened. Alone and so lonely, she felt constantly sick to her stomach.

Sometimes she thought about calling Cam, questioning him about why he'd been snuggled up with Shelley on the street the night before she left, but her gut told her she knew the answer. Cam told her not to go, and she refused. He was like everyone else in her life—if she didn't do exactly as she was told; she was expendable. And she was tired of that.

But then she'd think—maybe there was a simple explanation? She'd pick up her phone to call, but she'd always put it back down. Hadn't Tag made a fool out of her for years with his idiotic excuses for being with women? What could be Cam's excuse for looking so cozy... dressed like he was fresh from the shower? A shower he probably needed because they'd just—it was that sort of thinking that sent her running for a glass of wine. She didn't want to think about him and her together, but she couldn't stop it.

Those thoughts always hit her like a punch to the gut. Cam must not have wasted a second calling Shelley after she left. It couldn't have been more than an hour between her going to the hospital and returning to his apartment. Infuriated, she turned left at the stop sign and headed straight for Lita's. She was so mad, she couldn't speak. She marched past Mark and fell into bed where she cried into her pillow. She knew Shelley's game. Every opportunity the bitch got, it was Shelley to the rescue. Probably convinced him to go to Europe, which he obviously saw as the saner, less complicated choice.

By morning, she was done crying. She thought about telling Cam it was either go with Tag or he'd go back to jail, but she knew Cam would choose jail, if even out of spite. And like Mary said, he'd end up broke with a criminal record—or worse.

And now, here she was, doing her nightly ritual. Put Lily to bed then focus all of her energy on not thinking about Cam. She usually failed. It took an hour on the treadmill, at least two glasses of wine, and a hot bath before she could settle in for a bit of sleep.

Hayden sat on the closed toilet while the bath filled and polished off the first glass of wine. After turning off the water, she headed for the kitchen. Preoccupied with thoughts of Shelley and Cam, she mumbled, "Friends my ass." In the kitchen, she grabbed her phone off the counter to check it. No calls. Not even from Mark. Or her family. Evidently, she was on everyone's shit list. She sighed and grabbed the whole bottle and headed out of the kitchen.

"That's probably not a good idea."

Hayden dropped the bottle. It bounced without breaking but spilled red wine across the tile floor. She laid her hand over her heart. "Damn it, Tag. When did you get back?"

"A few minutes ago. Uncle Cliff dropped me off. He picked up some cow at the bar. Total heifer."

Hayden rolled her eyes and grabbed a towel. "No such luck for you?"

Tag sat in a kitchen chair. "I've lost my touch. I think it's the weight loss." He rubbed his jaw. His face was gaunt, his cheeks hollowed out until his bones pressed against sagging skin. "Or maybe it's the fact that I look like one of the walking dead. I'm starting to worry I'm going to die without ever getting laid again."

"Maybe it's because you're an ass who says stupid things like that." Hayden cleaned up the spilled wine and rinsed the towel in the sink.

"Nice way to talk to a dying man."

"You're not going to die." Hayden wrung out the towel and hung it across the sink. She didn't want to talk; she wanted to sulk in a hot tub with enough glasses of wine that she could fall asleep without thinking.

"You know," he kept talking, oblivious to the fact that she wanted him to be quiet, "at first I figured we'd get here and they'd say they made a mistake. Then I realized there was no mistake." He studied his hands. "So, then I thought they'd give me a few pills, and I'd head home. But it just keeps getting worse and worse. I'm starting to think I might not make it." A tear escaped him. He brushed it away with his sleeve. "Shit, I'm turning into a sissy."

"No, you're not. It's scary."

"Fuck it. Who cares, right? Most everyone would be better off if I was gone."

"That's ridiculous and you know better."

"Do I? Are you going to care?"

"Of course."

"You just don't care enough to be with me now."

Hayden took a deep breath and started to get up.

"Forget I said that." Tag grabbed her hand and pulled her to the table. "It was a stupid thing to say. All these treatments are wearing me out. I miss home and I'm picking fights."

"I understand."

"Sit. Talk with me a minute."

Hayden sat.

"So, have you two talked? You and the home wrecker, I mean."

She shook her head and rolled her eyes at him. "No, not since we've been here."

"Why not?"

"Because..." she'd not told anyone about the night they left. About seeing him and Shelley.

"Because..." He flashed a grin at her. "That's not a reason."

"If you have to know, I drove over to his place before we left. He was with Shelley."

"With as in Biblically with her, or she was just there hanging out and everyone's pants were on?"

"It doesn't matter."

"Of course, it does."

"I don't want to talk about this. Especially not with you."

"Oh well, excuse me."

"I didn't mean it like that." Hayden sighed. "Shelley is evidently Cam's Brandy. He can go to hell for all I care."

"His loss. You're a hell of a woman."

"Don't start. I'm not sleeping with you."

Tag laughed. It was a good sound. Hayden smiled.

"Fine. I'll die alone."

"You could always stop being a shallow ass and call her."

"Call who?"

"You know who. The one woman you always circle back to. Your Shelley."

Tag gave her a blank look.

"Brandy, you moron. We were just talking about her."

"Ahh Brandy... I'm not sure she'll ever talk to me again. I think I might have pushed it too far. I think she thought when you and I divorced, she and I would get together."

"And you didn't."

"I called her after the fight with Cam and she told me she was done with me. I was at one of my lowest points in my life, but she didn't give a damn."

"Seriously? That's how you see that?"

"What? I needed her and she let me down."

"You were beating up your ex-wife's—" What had Cam been, her boyfriend? That sounded very high school. She supposed it didn't matter now. She swallowed the lump trying to form in her throat and said, "You were acting like a jealous fool over a woman that wasn't her right in front of her. She probably didn't feel like she would ever matter to you for more than... well, whatever it is you guys do."

Tag thought a minute. It amazed Hayden that he had to digest the information like some sort of complex puzzle. But this was Tag. Quick of temper, slow of thought.

"I do miss her," he said.

"Then call her. Trust me, she loves you and she should either get to be with you now or have the privilege of telling you to go to hell. Either way, you owe her."

"What about us? Is there any chance you'd want—"

"Finish that sentence and I leave. Next flight out."

Tag laughed. "Can't even get a pity lay out of you?"

"You're so crude. I'm going to bed—alone."

Hayden stood and went to the cupboard and pulled out a fresh bottle of wine.

"Lay off the stuff, Hayden."

She flipped him the bird over her shoulder.

"Seriously. You're looking a little thick around the middle."

"Holy crap. Is weight your new obsession?"

"Tits are growing too. You might want to take a pregnancy test."

Hayden shoved the bottle back onto the shelf. She couldn't be, could she? For the life of her, she couldn't remember her last period. It had been...oh lord. Suddenly, all the queasiness and fatigue felt like more than stress. She rubbed her belly. It was rounded and firm. How had she not noticed? They'd been here how long? Hayden glanced at the calendar. Tag started his sixth week of chemo tomorrow.

The whole time she'd been here, she'd thought of nothing but Cam happily snuggled up with Shelley in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower or Big Ben or whatever stupid-ass city in Europe Shelley wanted to drag him to. She bit her lip and blinked back tears. She wanted Cam to want her, but not like this. Not because he was obligated to her.

"Better call him before he ends up with a brood between you and Shell."

Hayden slammed the cabinet door and stormed past him, ignoring his chuckles. Even as mad as she was, she wouldn't punch a guy with cancer in the nose. But damn, it was mighty tempting.

"Don't be mad at me. Hayden," he said as she left the room. "I'm not the fuck up this time."

Hayden couldn't speak. Tears made it impossible. Tag put a hand on her shoulder. "Don't worry. We're going home after this round of treatment, no matter what. We'll see who had been missing us and who's screwing who."

#  CHAPTER 45

Tag was good on his word to Hayden. At the end of that round of chemo, he insisted on transferring his care to the Cleveland Clinic so they could head home. For Hayden, being home wasn't any comfort. Cam was gone. His apartment was locked up tight and there was never any sign of him on any of the many drive-by's she took of his place.

She didn't think it was possible to feel any worse, but she did.

There was also Tag to deal with. He was driving her insane. His death preparations were as frustrating as they were depressing. She'd gotten so tired of cheering him up, she'd called Brandy herself. Told her she had to forgive Tag—he needed her.

That had quieted things down for a time. Then last night, Tag called her and insisted she come to an appointment with an attorney. She grumbled and complained, but here she was, out of bed, showered, and driving to the attorney's office. Just like a good soldier.

Brandy stood in the parking lot. She waved as Hayden parked her car. A stomach cramp made her take a sharp suck of air. She should have eaten a bite of something, but everything made her either throw up or caused her so much pain, it wasn't worth it. Her doctor told her it was a simple ulcer and told her to chew antacids. They didn't help. No matter how many she ate, it still felt like she had a hot poker rammed through her gut.

"Tag's waiting inside," Brandy said.

"How did it go?"

Brandy shook her head. "This round of chemo really zapped him. It made him sick to his stomach real bad. He's lost a lot of weight. They were even talking about putting in a feeding tube. But he wouldn't do surgery without seeing Lily first." Brandy shook her head. "He's so certain he won't make it."

"He can't give up now. This treatment is supposed to work, right?"

"That's what they say, but he's really down." Brandy took a deep breath. "Speaking of that—you need to forgive him, Hayden. What he did to you wears on him."

"We're passed that," Hayden said, a hand pressed against her belly. Like the pain wasn't enough, she was feeling queasy as well.

"Still, could you just tell him you forgive him?"

"Absolutely. I'll talk to him when I get home tonight. And if he ever needs surgery, I can bring Lily to him."

They were all living at the house—Tag and Brandy. Hayden and Lily. As soon as life calmed a bit, Hayden needed to get a job and her own place. She assumed since Mark wasn't speaking to her; she was unemployed as well as friendless.

"Guess we best get this over with," Brandy said. She wrapped her arm through Hayden's. Hayden gave her a smile.

It was both unfair and fortunate that it took a brush with death to get Tag's heart straightened out. Brandy was a good woman. Kind and patient.

"So, what's this all about?" Hayden asked.

"Tag just wants to make sure Lily is taken care of."

Sudden tears blurred Hayden's vision. She couldn't imagine being in Tag's shoes and saying goodbye to her baby knowing she would miss it all—first day of school, birthdays, holidays—she couldn't think of it without crying. After all the fights and bad blood, she didn't want to lose this Tag. The asshole made a decent friend once he stopped trying to have sex with every woman on the planet.

Brandy pulled her tighter. "This treatment will work. It has to."

Hayden nodded.

Brandy kept a gentle hand on her shoulder as they walked into the attorney's office. Tag sat in a wheelchair and nodded to Hayden as she walked in the room. She gave him a hug, planting a kiss on his cheek.

"How you feeling?" she asked.

"I'd say I'm feeling a little better than you look."

"Uh, thanks?"

"Have you seen a doctor?" Tag looked worried.

"I'm fine." She sat, placing her purse in her lap.

"You're too pale. Don't you think she looks pale, Brandy?"

Brandy nodded.

"And you're mostly too thin, all but the gut," Tag continued.

"I'm fine."

"You're not fine. You look like shit."

Hayden flipped him the bird and tried to change the subject. "So, why are we here?"

"Just getting our ducks in line."

"Our ducks?"

"If something should happen to the both of us, we need to appoint a guardian for Lily."

"Come on, Tag, I don't—"

"You never want to do this; but ignoring the inevitable doesn't help Lil. No more denial. I'm not getting any better and you look like I feel, so we have to do this. If we both go toes up, who will raise her?"

"I'm fine."

He looked her over and frowned. "Yeah whatever, humor me. Let's pretend you're fine but I want a say in who raises her."

Hayden rubbed the bridge of her nose. "Who do you suggest?"

"Cam."

"Cam?" She shook her head. "Are you serious?"

"Can you think of anyone better? My mother? Your mother?"

"Of course not them. But Cam?" She looked at Brandy. Brandy nodded, like it made all the sense in the world. "She loves Mark." She nodded to Brandy. "And Brandy is legally her stepmom. Why not one of them?"

"I'd rather keep her with her brother or sister, and I don't see Cam giving his kid up to Mark or Brandy to raise."

Hayden's mouth dropped open.

"Just because you refuse to admit it doesn't mean I can't tell that's a baby-bump you're trying to hide. If it isn't, you might want to see my oncologist about that growth you're hiding behind that purse."

"I'm—"

"Are you going to keep lying to me? Seriously? Every part of you is wasting away but your gut, and you're going to try to tell me there's nothing there?"

Hayden's eyes burned with tears. She eyed the door, debating the odds she could escape without creating too much of a scene.

"Cam is the only one who makes sense. I know him. He'll want his kid and he'll love Lily more than anyone else ever will because every time she looks at him, he'll see her mom."

Hayden rolled her eyes and brushed away the tears that slid down her cheeks.

"He loves you, Hayden."

"Sure, he does. That's why he's here." Hayden looked around the room. "Oh wait, no he's not. God only knows where he is. Probably went off to Europe—" she couldn't finish the sentence. She'd trusted Cam. Counted on him to be the one person on this earth who would never hurt her. Tears made it impossible for her to speak.

Brandy handed her a box of tissues and gave her hand a squeeze. "Men can be real shits, Hayden. I'm so sorry."

The wheelchair bumped into her knee. Tag positioned himself in front of her. "Look at me, Hayden."

She shook her head. "Go away. I don't want to hear it."

"Too bad." With a hand under her chin, he made her look at him. "Listen to me. You and Cam have to work this out."

"I'm done with it."

"He loves you."

"Maybe I don't love him. Maybe I'm tired of being with men who aren't at all bothered by hurting me."

Tag's eyes brimmed with tears. "I'm sorry, Hayden. For everything I've done to hurt you."

Guilt flowed through her every vein. "I've already forgiven you. I swear, I'm not mad at you. That is in the past and honest to God, Tag, nothing you ever did to me hurt as bad as Cam. I love you. You gave me Lily and I know you've tried to make up for all the bad stuff. But Cam," Hayden had to stop to take a breath. "Cam doesn't give a damn enough to even try to work it out. He doesn't care. I didn't even matter enough for him to get pissed over. I didn't do what he wanted, so screw me. He's gone and happily moving on with his life."

Tag took her hand and gave it a squeeze. "Do you really believe that?"

"I know it. He doesn't care." Hayden rubbed her belly. "And I'm not so sure Cam will be the best person for Lily. Or even Mark. If something happens, let Brandy take care of her."

"What about the baby? Will you at least admit there is a baby?"

"Fine. There's a baby, but who says it's Cam's?"

Tag rolled his eyes. "Come on, Hayden. He'll insist this little bastard be DNA tested as soon as it's born."

"Maybe he won't care."

"And hell might have snow."

"Well, it's still pointless. I'm fine. And I just know your treatment will work. This isn't something we need to worry about."

"Then it won't hurt to humor me. We can appoint Cam the custodian of both kids—just in case."

Hayden nodded. "Fine. But you have to talk to him. I refuse."

"You don't have to say a word to him. It might make for an awkward meeting, but hell, it's been awkward between us since I married you. I don't care who talks to—"

"Whoa, hold up. What the hell did you say?"

"I said I don't care—"

"Don't be coy, Tag. You said meeting. What meeting?"

"I called Cam."

"And?" She rubbed her stomach.

"I didn't tell him about that." He nodded to her belly.

"What meeting?"

"I called him and asked him to be Lily's guardian."

"Damn it, Tag. Is Cam coming here?"

"Don't worry. I didn't tell him about the baby."

Hayden's heart raced. She clutched her purse. "What did you do?"

"Fine. I told Cam to meet us here. To sign the papers granting him guardianship should something happen to us both."

"You asked him to come here? Today?"

Tag nodded.

"You had no right—"

"I may not have the right, but I have the obligation. I don't know how many days I have left, and this is something I have to fix."

"It's not your problem to fix."

"Come on, you know it's all my fault."

"You lying asshole. This wasn't even about Lily, was it?"

"Not completely, but mostly it was about Lil."

"I don't want to see him."

"And that's my fault."

"No, it isn't, so stay out of it."

"Listen to me. I knew when I forced you to go with me to Houston how it would play out. I knew it would piss Cam off, but I didn't give a shit. I wanted to cause a problem."

"It was one-hundred percent on him to call Shelley. It was his choice to cuddle up with her on the street. That's all his fault. If he's coming, I'm not staying."

"He loves you."

"The hell he does."

"He does."

Hayden let out a puff of exasperated breath. "It doesn't matter. Not anymore." She hopped up from her seat. "Give me whatever I need to sign. I'm leaving. I'm not doing this. I don't want to see him."

"What's your end game? Do you seriously think you can hide this forever? Do you honestly think once he knows you're pregnant you'll be able to shake him?"

"You had no right, Tag. You seriously had no right. This is my life, not yours."

"I have to look out for my daughter. Even if you don't want Cam in your life, I want him in Lily's. I want him to look me in the eye and promise me he'll take care of her. What if the next guy you meet is the kind of fucking asshole who beats the hell out of you?"

"Is that a joke? Do you seriously think any of this is funny?"

"I think it's a joke that the two of you are acting like a couple of pig-headed dumbasses. Him with his piss-baby pouting and you with your fucking indignation. I need you two to grow up and get this right. I want to know my daughter will be living in a happy home."

"Oh, so now that's a worry?"

"Yes. It's a worry. How screwed in the head will she be ten years from now, Hayden? When I die and you're a train wreck? Or looking as pale as you do—if you end up three feet under with me and then where will she be? From where I'm sitting in this fancy goddamned chair, I need Cam. So, hate me if you want, but I called him."

"You and Cam can have each other."

"I'm telling him, Hayden. He has the right to know."

Hayden turned at the door, her mouth hanging open. "I've been good to you. I've taken you to appointments. I called Brandy—"

"Without my permission, because you knew it was the right thing for me. I owe you."

Hayden let out a little scream and stormed out of the room, slamming the door behind her. She almost knocked over the attorney who was coming into the room.

Brandy was on her heels in seconds. "Hayden, stop. Tag is just trying to help."

"I don't need his help. I don't need anyone's help. And I sure as hell don't need Cam and his pity forced on me." Hayden turned to Brandy. "You know that's what's coming, right? Cam left me. Who the hell knows where he's been or who he was with, but I have one blonde guess. But now, duty will call, and he'll have to stay here and take care of things."

"I don't think—"

"You don't know him like I do. He only came back to town when his dad wrecked. It's what he does. But I won't—I don't want him like this. Tag knows that better than anyone."

"He's coming back for you. For Lily. He doesn't know anything else. I was with Tag when he called him. All Tag said was he was sorry for messing shit up between the two of you and asked him if he'd come be Lily's guardian. That's it. He didn't tell him you look too damn pale and too damn skinny or that we suspected you're pregnant."

Hayden closed her eyes. The familiar burning nausea washed over her. She tried to swallow past the need to vomit, but she could feel it coming. She tried to run to the bathroom, but barely made it ten feet down the hall before she was throwing up. Wave after wave, she couldn't stop it or even slow it down. She suddenly felt dizzy and her last clear thought was that she didn't want to pass out in her own vomit. She wiped at her mouth and tried to get herself back to sorts, but when she pulled her hand away, it was smeared in blood.

Brandy grabbed Hayden by her shoulders. "Oh my God, you're bleeding."

Hayden nodded. She would have panicked, but she was too disoriented and dizzy to focus on the blood. Blood was never a good thing. She should worry, she told herself. But she couldn't. Her eyelids were too heavy.

#  CHAPTER 46

The drive to the hospital was a nightmare. Cam had pulled into the attorney's office at the same time the ambulance was leaving. His first thought was Tag, but then Brandy ran toward his car waving her hands like a used car lot air dancer. She slammed into his door she was moving so fast. Reaching through the window, she grabbed him by the shirt and said, "Get to the hospital. It's Hayden. She's bleeding to death."

"What?" he asked as he shifted into reverse.

"She's bleeding. Inside." Brandy took a suck of air. "That was her in the ambulance."

He didn't wait for any further explanation. He backed out of the lot and followed the sound of the ambulance. It turned a corner and was blocked from view by trees and houses as it made its way across town. That didn't matter. He knew the way. The siren made his heart thud and sparked his brain to imagine every possible horror. Had she been hit by a car? Was that why she was bleeding? If she died in the ambulance, she'd never know he loved her.

She had to know he loved her.

Maybe Brandy was overreacting. She wasn't always the sharpest knife in the drawer. That's not a nice thing to think, but it was a hell of a lot better than Hayden dying.

He parked his car and ran through the hospital doors. Inside, he stopped in the ER waiting room. He knocked on the glass that separated hospital staff from the public. Two women stood on the other side of the glass with their backs to him talking to a third woman. Cam pounded on the glass harder making it bow. The women finally turned and slid the glass open.

"Can I help you?"

"Hayden Green, no Matthews... she was just brought in."

"You're not family. We can't tell you anything," she said as she slid the glass closed and went back to her conversation.

Cam felt like punching through the glass and pulling her out by her neck. He turned to the sound of opening doors and saw Tag and Brandy come in.

"Any news?" Tag asked.

"Bitch won't tell me anything. I'm not family. Or anything."

Tag dropped himself in the first chair closest to the door and took a long, ragged suck of air. He looked gray and a bead of sweat pooled above his upper lip. Brandy stood beside him, a protective hand on his upper arm.

"Maybe they'll tell you?" Cam asked.

Tag craned his neck, looking through the glass at the women. "Well, shit. That's Maya Tucker. She's a friend of Judy's. And she hates me. She won't tell me a goddamned thing."

Cam frowned. If the woman was a friend of Hayden's mother, she probably hated the world. Bitches flock together. "Great." Cam sat across from him.

"What's worse," Tag said. "She's probably called Judy. Poor Hayden. Like she needs her mom right now."

Cam ran his hand through his hair. "Did she get hit by a car? Why is she bleeding?" He stood and paced. "Do you have any idea what's going on with her?"

"She's under a lot of stress. She said the doctor told her she had an ulcer. Brandy guesses it's bleeding," Tag said.

Brandy nodded. "My grandma Pearl died of a bleeding ulcer."

"Jesus, Brandy." Tag shook his head.

"I'm sorry, Cam. I'm so nervous and when I'm nervous, I just chatter."

"It's all right."

"It was in the 70's. I don't think they knew how to fix it then." Brandy wrapped the straps of her purse around her finger. "Pretty sure they can now."

The group spent the next twenty minutes in silence. Cam would pace, then sit. Then pace some more.

"Brandy, darlin'," Tag finally said. "See that red button there on the wall by the double doors?"

Brandy nodded.

"Go give that a push and we'll see who the buzzer brings to the door."

Brandy looked at him, eyes big.

"Go on, push it. It's not like you're pulling a fire alarm."

"What's it there for?"

"For emergencies, like this one we're having right now."

"But what about the ladies at the front desk?"

Tag looked toward the window. "Those bitches can't move fast enough to stop you. The red button is the after-hours buzzer when no one is at that window. Trust me. Just push it."

Brandy set her purse on the floor and crept toward the button. She looked back at Tag and he nodded. With a shake of her head, she pushed it then practically ran back to her chair. She planted herself in the seat next to Tag and grabbed a magazine and pretended to be reading.

The door to the ER opened. Cam and Tag looked to see who was there. Brandy buried her nose deeper in the magazine.

A heavy-set nurse with red hair poked her head out of the door.

"Maddy," Tag said to the young woman.

Cam felt a ray of hope. If there was a woman over 18 and under 50, Tag was probably on friendly terms.

Maddy smiled and stepped through the door into the ER. "I'll be, you are here. When they brought in Hayden, we were taking bets on whether or not you'd show up. I bet you would. Some said you were too sick. I told them you'd come; I heard you guys were getting back together."

Tag took Brandy's hand and gave it a squeeze. "Well darlin', you heard wrong. Just here as a friend."

"Oh, I see. Has anyone given you an update?"

"Nope." Tag pointed to the window. "Nurse Ratchet behind the glass told us to go to hell. We aren't family."

"We?" Maddy looked from Tag to Cam.

"Cam and me."

She nodded to Tag, but kept her eyes on Cam. She asked in a low voice, "Is he the baby daddy?"

Tag nodded.

Cam heard the words, but they didn't quite register. In his mind, he thought of Lily. When the nurse turned to him and said, "Well then, seems you should come with me."

Cam nodded. The word baby was forgotten in the hope that he was being led to Hayden.

"I was hoping somebody, anybody, would show up and shut her mother up. My word, the woman is so hateful. Her daughter is scared to death and all she can say is I told ya so." Maddy slid her badge in the key lock opening the heavy doors that led to a long hall of ER beds partitioned by nothing but curtains.

He could hear Judy's voice from the hall. "What do you mean, you can't take her to surgery without the OB? She could die while you wait and for what? To save a problem no one wants anyhow?"

"Mother, please," Hayden's voice was weak. "I'm tired. Please, just stop talking."

"I will not shut up. You are my daughter and your welfare—"

"You're not helping."

"I am too."

"No, you're not. Please, just go."

"What are you saying?"

Hayden's voice took on an edge. "I said, I want you to go."

"You're throwing me out? Your own mother. I suppose that is the thanks I get—"

"Go," Hayden shouted. "I want you to go."

Nurse Maddy's footsteps quickened. She pulled back the curtain and grabbed Judy by the arm. "Ma'am, let me take you somewhere you can wait. Somewhere more comfortable."

"Because my daughter is throwing me out?"

"She's under stress. I'm sure that's all it is. How about we get you a cup of coffee?"

Judy grabbed her purse and her jacket before turning to Hayden. "I'll be praying for the best outcome."

"Go," Hayden screamed.

"Please, Ma'am," Maddy said giving Judy's arm a tug. "Before security is called."

"Throwing out your mother? You're a brat, Hayden Renee. A temperamental, self-centered brat. It's no wonder you're here alone. You trashed your marriage for what? A whim? See how far that got you? Where is he now, Hayden? Where's your knight in shining armor?"

"Excuse me, Judy. You're in my way," Cam said.

Judy turned to him and frowned. She looked so small and insignificant, but still dominated the room. For a tiny thing, she could be fierce. Looking up at Cam, she gripped her purse strings and sighed. "I guess she's your problem now. I'm done dealing with her."

Hayden covered her eyes with her arm.

After Judy left, Cam moved next to Hayden. "Hey," he said.

She rolled to her side, turning her back to him. "No. Not now. Not like this."

"I won't be in your way." He sat in the chair beside the bed and said nothing else.

Nurse Maddy came back in. "Judy's fine. I got her a cup of coffee and some donuts. Nothing to worry about," she said as checked the monitors. "Feeling all right, love?" she touched Hayden's shoulder as she asked.

"I'm fine."

"Any more nausea?"

Hayden shook her head.

"Knock knock," a woman's voice said from the curtain door.

Nurse Maddy turned to the sound. "Hey, Holly. Did they find an OB yet?"

"One is driving in from Wheeling General. She should be here in twenty minutes."

"I can't believe we have to go thirty miles for an OB. You'd think we'd have one on staff."

"Not a single one. There hasn't been a baby born in this hospital in twenty years."

The reminder of a baby grabbed Cam's attention. He wanted to ask Hayden if he was going to be a dad, but he bit his tongue. As he sat there contemplating the possibility, he decided he didn't need to ask. She'd probably think he was accusing her of... well, he'd rather not think of that. It had to be his. If it wasn't, Tag would never have called him.

"Driving in? I'm surprised they don't just transport her to Wheeling."

"That was considered, but since Dr. Phillips is here and ready to go, they decided transporting her was too much of a risk."

Cam sat and listened but said nothing. He wished he could get a few minutes alone with Hayden, but the place was as busy as Grand Central Station, so he kept silent. He didn't want to give Hayden any reason to toss him out.

A guy pulled back the curtain and pushed his cart up next to Hayden's bedside. "Hello, Mrs. Matthews. My name's Joe and I need to get a heart monitor on you to make sure your wee one is doing all right."

Hayden sat up, a protective hand wrapping around the small bump. "Of course."

"Go ahead and lie back. Just relax. Is this your first?"

"No. I have a little girl."

"Then you know the drill." Joe pulled her blankets to her waist before raising her hospital gown above her belly.

Cam took a deep breath and tried not to get emotional. He wiped at his eyes. Her belly was thin, the pale skin stretched over the little bump exposing the fragile network of blue veins. To him, Hayden was much too thin to be healthy. Dark circles under her eyes made her skin look even paler. Tag's worries that she might not survive this seemed too accurate. Losing her or losing the baby nestled inside her scared him worse than anything ever could. Suddenly, all the givens vanished. There was no promise of growing old. Love didn't conquer all.

Even if she was fine, she might be done with him because sitting here, looking at the pain etched into every line and crease in her face, he felt like a juvenile ass refusing to talk to her. He caused their trouble.

The divide between him and Hayden had never been wider, but the desire to touch her, to place a hand on her belly and assure himself there could be a future for them was physically painful. But he forced himself to remain still. Hands clamped together, heels bouncing restlessly against the white tile floor.

Joe tightened the belt with the baby monitor around Hayden's waist and in seconds, there was the swish, swish of heart rate. Hayden turned her head toward the monitor. The little heart on the screen blinked 140...142...138. His own heart rate felt like it was climbing. A normal heart rate was what? 50? 60? Or was that an athletic heart rate? Was his baby's heart about to explode?

Although Cam swore he'd sit in the chair and keep his mouth shut, he couldn't abide watching the monitor blip through numbers that would have him calling an ambulance. "Is that normal?" Cam asked.

Joe looked at him and smiled. "The fetal heart rate?"

Cam nodded.

"It's textbook perfect." Joe gave Hayden's arm a squeeze. "Now, we just need to take care of the momma."

Cam chewed on his lip. It was torture to be close enough to smell the honeysuckle scent of her shampoo, but be so out of sync that they may as well be a million miles apart. He took a deep breath. In through his nose. He held it for a second. Then let it out slow and steady.

Joe turned to him on his way out of the room. "Don't worry, Dad. We'll take good care of them both."

His throat tightened. He couldn't speak past the lump that formed in his throat, so he nodded.

Another nurse popped her head in the area and said, "They're sending orderlies now."

Nurse Maddy nodded. "All righty then. I'll give you two a second alone before we send you off to surgery."

Her words gave Cam a jolt of hope. He'd have a chance to apologize. To start to make things right between them. He cleared his throat and took a step toward her, but she didn't make a move. He watched her face as she stared at the ceiling. It stayed frozen—blank and pale.

#  CHAPTER 47

"Hayden," he said. She never turned to look at him, but she blinked. A long, deliberate blink, like she was gathering the fortitude to deal with him. "I'm sorry." His voice betrayed him. It cracked and his eyes burned. He took a deep breath. "I don't know how many times my temper and my jealousy—"

"Were you with Shelley?" Hayden asked while still staring at the ceiling.

"With Shelley? Hell no."

"When I came to your apartment, the night before I left—to better explain to you—she was there. When I came to Pittsburgh, she was there. You two always seem to be friendly when I'm not around. So, I assumed since you told me to piss off that you two—"

"No, never. Shit." Cam pulled the chair next to the bed and sat beside her, so he could be closer to her. "I was not with her and I didn't tell you to piss off."

"Pretty much. You told me I had to choose. I did what I thought was best for my daughter and for you."

"I thought he was manipulating."

"He was. I did it to keep you out of jail and to stop you from spending all your money on a case that was at best, probably 50/50. But you couldn't trust me. Even though it wasn't me who snuggled up to my ex every time I got the chance."

"She had my dog and brought him over when she knew I was back. I gave her a hug because she assured me you loved me. That was it. I never knew you came back to the apartment."

"Obviously."

"I'm sorry. I know it had to look bad. But I swear, nothing happened. I love you. There's no replacing you."

She glanced at him, but that didn't make him feel any better. Her stare was cold, unyielding. "Where have you been? I drove by your house after we got back. It didn't look like you were living there."

"I've been in Pittsburgh. Living with Mark." He grabbed her hand. "Call and ask him. He'll tell you I haven't been with Shelley. I've been staying with him and working with Rudy as an offensive scout."

She sighed and returned her gaze to the ceiling. "Mark cut me off too."

"I'm so sorry. I was jealous. Too jealous obviously to think straight." He grabbed her hand and pulled it to him. "I love you. Damn it. We should be together."

"This isn't what I wanted," she said. Tears rolled from her eyes and down her cheeks. "I knew if you knew, you'd do this."

"Knew what?"

Her free hand went to her belly as if it was a reflex motion. "I think it's obvious. Just as obvious as why you're sitting there, telling me you love me. I know Tag called you."

"I swear to you, I've been miserable. I've missed you so much."

"You knew where to find me."

"Yeah, with Tag," he said the words sharper than he'd planned. He ran a hand through his hair and reminded himself to get a damn grip on his temper. "I'm sorry. You don't need any of my shit. And that's all this is—my shit. I was pissed, Hayden. And jealous. Plain and simple as that. I didn't want you to help Tag. I didn't want you anywhere near him. I thought if I made you choose, you'd choose me."

"I did. I kept you out of jail."

He shook his head. "How was I supposed to know that? You said it was your idea to go with him."

"I couldn't trust you to make the rational choice. If I told you that was his offer, you never would have agreed."

"Hell, no. I wouldn't."

"You'd rather have spent thousands of dollars—"

"Yes, I'd gladly have spent thousands of dollars rather than give that son of a bitch what he wanted or risked you going anywhere with him. You're right. I'm guilty of that."

"That's why I couldn't tell you."

"Damn it," he started, but paused. None of that mattered now. He needed her to be well. "Look, I was wrong, but I'm here. I'm here to say I'm sorry. I want to be with you. I want this. I want to be a family."

Her tears flowed faster. Cam cursed to himself for his inability to make things better.

"I don't want to be your obligation."

"What obligation?" Then it hit him. She thought he was back because she was pregnant. He pulled her hand to his lips. "You are never an obligation. You're what I want. A baby with you. Honest to God, if I had the power to plan my perfect future, this would be it. Minus the part where I hurt you."

She nodded but didn't look convinced. "I just... I know how you are. You're a real boy scout. I don't need rescuing."

Cam smiled at her. "It's not 1920, Hayden. I don't have to be with you to fulfill whatever duties and obligations come with being a parent."

She wiped at the tears that kept falling with her free hand. "You're right. How stupid of me to think you'd feel you had to—"

"I'm going to be with you because I love you and I want to be with you." He grabbed a box of tissues and pulled out a handful, blotting at her tears. "We will happen, Hayden. Like water dripping on a rock, I'll just stick around and keep bugging you...drip, drip, drip until I wear you down."

"What if I don't want you anymore?"

Her words hit like a punch in the gut. His eyes stung. He took a deep breath and forced himself to breathe. The thought of losing her—not just because she didn't want him, but because she couldn't look more fragile if she was made of porcelain. If this was all the time he had left with her, she couldn't leave this room hating him. "Then I will still be around. Nothing will change that." He plastered on a smile. "I'll be the sad, lonely bachelor at all the kids' parties. Eventually, you'll start inviting me to holidays too, out of pity."

Hayden bit her lip to stop the smile, but it was there. "No Shelley?"

"No one but you. Not before. Not now. Not in the future. I swear."

She nodded and gave his hand a squeeze. "I'm scared, Cam," she whispered. "If something bad happens, promise me you'll take care of Lily."

"Nothing is going to happen to you."

"Please, Cam. You know how my family is and Tag—well, it's getting pretty bad for him and Connie can't raise a child and Mark is all fun and games—"

"If anything ever happened to you, that little girl will be all that matters." He tried to shake off the tears. His eyes were glassy and his chest felt as if he was being crushed by the entire defensive line. "But you will be fine, you hear me?"

Hayden nodded, but held onto him with a death grip until two orderlies came and said they were ready for her.

#  CHAPTER 48

The waiting room was filled with Hayden's family. Cam doubted he'd be welcome to join them, especially after Hayden allowed her mother to be thrown out of the ER. He supposed it was time to find out. Cracking his neck to ease the tension, he stepped into the room. Tag gave him a look with big, round eyes and an ornery grin.

Lily was sitting on a pink plastic chair pulled up to an end table. She lifted her gaze from her coloring book. Her mouth dropped open, and she squealed, "Cam." She ran to him and wrapped skinny little arms around his knees before taking him by the hand and dragging him to the table. "Come see." She lifted the book and showed him the dog she was coloring. "It's French Fry. Did you bring him with you? I've missed French Fry."

"No, sweetie. I left him at home."

"Oh," Lily's lower lip puffed out. "Mommy said he was probably living with a cow and that she would buy me a new puppy. But she told a fib. I never got a puppy."

"How about I bring him over later?" Cam asked.

Before Lily could answer, Judy sniffed. Cam couldn't help but look her direction, though interacting with her was one of the last things he wanted to do. Asking her if she had a problem was on the tip of his tongue, but he bit it. No sense starting a fight. Not here, at least.

"Don't give me that look, Cameron Vorelli. You shouldn't even be here. And you sure shouldn't be talking to my granddaughter. It's your fault she may never see her mother again."

"Holy shit, Judy," Tag said.

The little girl's face instantly puckered and her eyes filled with tears. "I can't see Mommy?"

Tag grabbed the little girl by the arm and pulled her in for a hug. "It's okay. Mommy's fine, Princess. Granny is just an old bitch with a stone heart."

"I want Mommy," Lily cried.

Brandy leaned toward the little girl and said, "You want to see some baby ducks, Lil?"

Lily wiped at her eyes and the tears slowed. "Little tiny ones?"

"Little tiny ones."

"Can I hold one?"

"Well sure, if I can catch one."

"Can I, Daddy?"

"Anything for my princess. Here, baby." Tag pulled a few dollars out of his pocket. "Take this to the vending machine and buy some popcorn. Ducks love popcorn."

Lily gripped the money in one hand and Brandy's in the other as they headed out the door. The little girl slowed to a stop and turned back to Tag. "Will you tell Mommy where I am? If she needs me?"

"You bet," Tag said. "I'll call Brandy and tell her to bring you back as soon as you can see Mommy."

Once Brandy and Lily left, Tag turned to Judy, "You need to learn when to keep your damn mouth shut."

"Don't you lecture me. That's my daughter in there, fighting for her life. All because of you two and your little games. You," she pointed at Tag, "made her life miserable for years. And you," she pointed at Cam, "didn't treat her much better. Neither of you deserve her. Both of you did this."

"You stupid bitch. You have harassed her her entire life." The veins in Tag's neck bulged.

"Come on, Tag." Cam stood. "Let's take a walk."

For Tag to stand, he had to grip the arms of the chair and struggle to his feet. Cam felt another stab of guilt. He wrapped a hand around Tag's arm and helped him out of the room. Judy and her daughter had their own little bitch chat making sure they were loud enough for them to hear in the hallway. "They're Vorelli's," Judy said. "White trash. Ill-bred troublemakers, the both of them."

Tag laughed. "Uppity bitch. I oughta sick Momma on her ass."

Cam had to chuckle. Aunt Connie would definitely throw some punches if she heard half of it. "Hell," Cam said. "Be glad she's not here. How many assault charges can one woman get before she has to do real time?"

"You're probably right. But damn wouldn't it be funny to see their faces if she showed up to keep them company?"

"They deserve it, but I still wouldn't recommend it."

"It's fun to imagine." Tag laughed so hard, he had to lean against the hospital wall for support.

Cam spotted a lone wheelchair in the hall, so he grabbed it and shoved it toward Tag. "Have a seat. We'll see if we can pop some wheelies."

Tag plopped himself in the chair, putting his feet on the metal trays. "Some poor old bastard will come out of the bathroom and realize he ain't got any wheels."

"He can call for another one. Surely they have more than this one."

"In that case," Tag pointed down the hall, "onward, ya pussy."

Cam laughed and shoved him down the hall.

"Mush," Tag yelled.

Cam went faster and faster, popping wheelies as they spun around corners. They went all the way to the dining room. "Whoa, boy. We can wait here. Maybe get an egg salad. They're risky, but delicious."

Cam pushed open the heavy door with one arm and shoved Tag through with the other.

Tag pulled himself out of the chair and walked to a phone on the wall. He picked it up and dialed a number. "Is this Charity?" Tag gave him a wink. "Yeah, this is Tag... I've missed you too, darlin'. Hey, can you do me a favor? Can you give Cam and me a call here in the dining room when there's any news on Hayden?" Tag scratched his head. "Yeah, he's the baby daddy.... I'll let him know. Thanks. You're the best." Tag hung up the phone. "She's going to call when she's out of surgery."

"Good," Cam said. "Let me get you that sandwich."

Tag sat himself in one of the cafeteria chairs. "Grab me one of those sweet teas, too. And a bag of chips."

Cam bought the food and the tea. He got himself a cup of coffee. The last thing he wanted was food.

Cam's phone rang. It was Mark, so he answered. He let him know Hayden was in surgery, but didn't know why or for what—only that she'd been throwing up blood. Mark sounded shrill and more than a bit loopy. Cam promised to keep him informed and hung up the phone.

"Let me guess? He was higher than a kite?"

"I think so." Cam was shocked. Mark always struck him as one of the most well-adjusted and focused humans he'd ever known. While he'd been living with the guy, he never seemed to have a hair out of place.

"Typical of the little fairy. He can't take stress. Littlest problem, he's burning trees. Smoking the weed. He used to call Hayden to walk him off ledges, but he fucked that up."

"You know he's not gay."

"Yeah, yeah. That's what Hayden says too, but I'm throwing the bullshit card. No straight man is that into theater and fashion. And holy shit, the drama. He's such a damn girl."

Cam shook his head.

"What?"

"Do you hear yourself?"

"Hell, I'm a walking dead man. No point losing sleep over other people's hurt feelings." Tag took a bite of his sandwich. "Besides, he was a constant problem. Always in Hayden's ear bitching about me."

Cam studied his cousin. "Do you really think your marriage failed because of Mark?"

"And you. The both of you."

"Then why are you helping me now?"

"You're family."

"Haven't you heard—"

"I'm not buying that fag boy is in any way related to us."

Cam let it go. By the looks of it, Tag wouldn't live long enough to have to adjust to Mark being family. The few steps he took in the hallway made him look like he was about to keel over. He supposed it didn't matter why Tag didn't resent him and reached out to help him and Hayden reconnect. All that mattered was he did, and for that, Cam was grateful.

"Look," Tag said. "I know I was the fuck up. And I know better than anyone that Hayden is a good woman. Truth be told, Aunt Mary came to the hospital, and she set it up perfectly for me to squeeze Hayden."

"My mom?"

Tag nodded. "Shit yeah. She told Hayden all about your foolish fight-the-man campaign and that if she really truly loved you, she'd protect you. So, I gave Hayden the opportunity to protect you and she did. I knew you'd flip shit over it and I knew she'd never budge. Perfect. I may not be a genius, but I know the both of you. You snuggling up with Shelley so quick was just icing on the cake."

Cam squeezed his cup of coffee so hard it cracked and hot liquid seeped out. He tossed it in the trash. "You are seriously twisted."

"I was pissed. It's funny. It took me having to accept that I was going to die to make me appreciate what I had. I have a beautiful daughter who is so sweet and so perfect. All the shit, all the fights between Hayden and me, I'm shocked we didn't ruin her." Tag's eyes were glassy. "I'm realizing that's all thanks to her mom. Hayden protected my little girl from me. She could have poisoned her against me, but she never did. When Lily told me her mom got her bruises from not wearing a seat belt, I felt about an inch tall. I ruined Hayden's life, and I had to fix it."

"That's why you called me?"

"Oh, I'm also worried about what will happen to Lily if whatever is wrong with Hayden can't be fixed. There was Aunt Pearl, ya know." Tag shook his head. "Those bitches won't raise my daughter. Neither can my mother. And your parents, hell, who knows what's up with them lately. Filing for divorce at their age? What the hell?"

"It is awkward. Especially knowing my mom is dating."

Tag nodded. "You've had a shitty couple of months, cuz."

Cam nodded, but then looked at his cousin's withering face. "I suppose it hasn't been easy on you either."

"Brandy told me karma was biting me in the ass. Big-assed sassy bitch," Tag said with a smile.

"You love her, don't you?"

Tag nodded. "I guess I always have."

"What the hell?"

"I had Hayden. How do you walk away from a girl like that?"

"If you don't love her, you just walk away."

"You are the master of that. How many hearts did you break over the years trying to find a replacement?"

Cam shook his head. "I never made any promises or told any lies. I knew what I wanted, even if I couldn't have her."

"That was another problem. If I let her go, I knew... man, I just knew you'd be right there like a fly on shit. And that would be humiliating."

"That's messed up, Tag. For real, who does that?"

Tag shook his head. "Shit, Cam. Walk with me a day. Humans are the biggest assholes on this planet. I've seen mothers let people beat the hell out of their babies for a place to live. But shitty people don't look at themselves and know they're shitty. We tell ourselves lies, like how we love our wives, but can't stand the bitch half the time because she's a harpy. We justify it all away. That's how we stay shitty."

"So, what changed?"

"Being told you're going to die is a harsh mirror. Forces you to take a hard look at your life and then your priorities change."

"When did you decide to reach out to Brandy?"

Tag grinned. "When I realized I brought the last woman on the face of this earth who would ever have sex with me to Texas."

Cam breathed a sigh of relief. It was a question he was never going to ask but would have bugged him forever.

"You know Cam, Judy was a bitch to say it, but she is right. We did break her daughter. Well, technically you did, but I helped." Tag took a swig of tea. "The funny thing is, I always tried to break her. Our entire marriage, I'd do shit to piss her off, and she'd give me this look, this glare. I know she was thinking, _You dumb son of a bitch_. _Why do I bother with you_? Never shed a tear and I threw some trouble her way. But you," Tag shook a finger at Cam. "You crushed her, man. I was sitting there on the plane when she boarded and she had that look of defeat, that broken spirit I always thought I wanted to see. But when I saw it, I had to ask myself, why the hell did I ever want to see that?"

#  CHAPTER 49

Coming out of surgery, Hayden didn't remember falling asleep or waking up. She looked around the room. There were monitors and white walls, but no Cam.

A nurse approached her bed. "You're awake. How are you feeling?"

"Fine," she said. "Is Cam here?"

The nurse checked the monitors and the IV bag. "I didn't see a man. Your mother is in the waiting room with your sister."

"I don't want to see them. Not yet." Tears burned in her eyes. "Is there a guy waiting with them? Tall guy, dark hair?"

"No. But let me check again. Maybe I missed him."

Hayden nodded, but she knew Cam wasn't a guy who went unnoticed, so he must not be there. Logically, she knew there had to be an explanation. But logic didn't stop the tears. She was alone. It was as if the tears came from nowhere and everywhere like a flash flood. She couldn't count on her family for anything but criticism. Mark was still mad at her. He hadn't talked to her in months. Tag screwed all of her female friends, so she'd lost touch with all of them. She had her daughter, but she couldn't lean on her baby. Dear God, she needed to change her life. She rolled over and buried her face in her pillow doing her best to stifle her sobs before she gained the attention of the hospital staff.

The doctor had already warned her that stress exacerbated her ulcer and caused the bleed. He'd offered her therapy, but Hayden didn't want to go back there. She knew what was wrong in her life. She didn't need a therapist to tell her she had no one.

A hand touched her hair. "Hey beautiful, you're awake."

She rolled toward him. "Cam?"

"Of course," he said, kissing her forehead. "I told you I'd be here."

"The nurse. She said you weren't here."

He wiped away her tears, kissed her again. "The waiting room was too small. Tag suggested we wait in the dining room."

She hugged him as best she could with the pulse ox cord, the IV, and the heart monitor. "I was afraid you left."

"I'm not going anywhere." He brushed back her hair. "I know I've not given you any reason to trust me—"

"I trust you."

He gave her a look. Kind of sad with a forced smile.

She sighed. He was right. She didn't trust him. And he didn't trust her. He hadn't given her the benefit of the doubt with Tag. He hadn't trusted that when she said she loved him; she meant it. But then, she was guilty of it too. The entire time they were on the outs, she imagined he was with Shelley.

"I will spend a lifetime making it up to you. Whether you want me back or not, I will always be here for you." He kissed the top of her head. "But you will want me back."

Hayden rested her head against his chest. He was warm and solid and his heart beating against her cheek comforted her. Maybe there was no future for them together, but right now, she needed him. And she loved him. She'd always love him, but was she wise to forgive all the pain he'd caused her? Her mother and her sister would say she was a fool to take him back—another Vorelli man who couldn't be trusted. But he was right. They had a baby coming who would forever thread their lives together. Maybe it wasn't the smart choice, but he was what her heart wanted; she'd deal with the rest later.

"Well, hello there. Am I interrupting?"

Hayden blushed. It was her doctor.

The woman gave Hayden a smile and extended a hand to Cam. "Dr. Banks. You must be the Cam the nurses are all gushing about."

It was Cam's turn to turn red.

Dr. Banks chuckled. "So, everything went great. It was the ulcer that was causing the bleeding. We got that cauterized, so the bleeding should stop. Dr. Myles consulted and prescribed a proton pump inhibitor and an increase in your iron for at least the next week until you have a follow up with your OB."

"Can I go home?"

"No, we're going to be moving you to a room. I'd like for you to stay in the hospital at least a few days. The bleeding dropped your hemoglobin level low enough that your blood pressure is a bit lower than we'd like and you'll need at least another pint of blood, so consider yourself out of the woods, but still on the mend, okay?"

"Okay," Hayden chewed on her lip. Worry for her baby made her hands shake. "Is the baby all right?"

"Heart rate was strong the whole time, but I'll tell you what—you don't need any worries, so we'll get an ultrasound ordered and you can see him or her for yourself."

"I'd appreciate that." She ran her hand over her belly and held it there. Cam's hand tightened on her shoulder. She looked up at him to see if he was freaking out. He smiled at her.

"How soon will they do the ultrasound?" Cam asked.

"I'll check and get back with you." Dr. Banks looked at Hayden. "Everything is fine. What I need you to do is to rest and stop worrying. And I need you," she pointed to Cam, "to make sure she's taken care of. Her family is waiting to see her. Can you handle them?"

Hayden felt embarrassed. She opened her mouth to tell the doctor she was used to dealing with her mother and her sister, but before she could say anything, Cam said, "They won't be a problem. I'll take care of them."

#  CHAPTER 50

Once she was settled into her room, Hayden had time to worry. Exactly what was Cam going to do to _take care of them?_ Beat up her sister? Muzzle her mother?

She took a deep breath and rubbed her belly. "It's all right, little one. I suppose whatever your dad does is to keep you safe." Then she thought of the fight between him and Tag and she groaned. "Please, Cam. Be smart."

"Why, hell-oh, gorgeous."

Hayden couldn't stop the smile or the squeal. "Mark! I've missed you."

He flew into the room and gave her a huge hug. His giant balloon bouquet kept batting her in the head. "Let me just put this over here." He set it in the corner. It was full of colorful balloons with a two-foot pink teddy bear to hold the whole thing down.

"Are those for me?"

"Technically, yes. Practically, they're for Lil. She's going to be so impressed. Or she better be. I swear, I never realized what a bitch it would be to drive fifty miles with a carload of balloons. Damn things float everywhere."

Hayden laughed. "When you fill them with helium they do."

"Cheese and crackers was that a hassle." He sat by her on the bed and took her hands. "Cam called me. I'd have been here sooner, but I was decompressing."

Hayden shook her head.

"What? It's almost completely legal."

Hayden squeezed his hand. "I've missed you."

"I'm so sorry, my love. I thought I was being so smart. I truly did. It's my fault Cam didn't cave and come running to Texas. He wanted to. He missed you so much, but I cracked my whip and I said, 'stay strong, Cameron James'—he loves it when I call him that. 'Don't let her fall into Tag's trap. Cancer my ass.' I said that a lot—cancer my ass. I just knew he was faking. Would've had put a money bet on it, I was so sure."

"Who fakes cancer?"

"Assholes without souls. Tag seemed the perfect candidate."

"How stupid did you think I was?"

"You're not stupid, honey. But you're thoughtful and caring and remember those snipe hunts? Same principle."

Hayden shook her head. "Not the same at all."

"I get that—now. At the time, I thought it was one more case of you falling into the pity slash guilt trap."

"I wasn't completely surprised you iced me out. You warned me; you'd take Cam's side."

"Well, he is blood."

Hayden punched him in the shoulder. "You jerk. You just found that out."

"That blood bond must have been intuitive."

"But I am your life-long friend. You should always take my side."

"Sweetheart, I was on your side. I wanted the best for you and the best was Cam."

"Cam is everything I could ever want, or at least what I thought I wanted. But now, I wonder—would I be a fool to take him back? If he even wants me back. Or do you think he's just feeling obligated because of the baby?"

Mark leaned closer. "Are you insane? Like, seriously... are you off your rocker?"

She shook her head. "Is this the beginning of another troubled relationship? I can't do this again. You don't know how bad it hurt to feel like I lost him. If every time he gets mad at me, he cuts me out of his life, that would be awful. Wouldn't it be better to just move on?"

"He wasn't mad, per se. He was hurt. He was worried. And oh my God, was he scared. Going with Tag wasn't like showing up late for a date, you have to see that?"

"But he was sick."

Mark patted her leg. "Past practice predicts future behavior, or some such nonsense, right? Breaking up and getting back together was you guys's thing." Mark added air quotes around thing.

"I never would have made a promise to Cam if I didn't mean it. You should know that." Hayden rubbed her face with the palms of her hands. "I tried to explain it to him, but he wouldn't even discuss it. It was his way or the highway. Nothing I had to say mattered. And then as soon as he thinks I'm gone, there's Shelley. I was a fool for years. I won't be one again."

#  CHAPTER 51

The nurse checking her vitals woke Hayden. She couldn't believe she fell asleep. She must have dozed off while she and Mark were watching game shows. "Did you see the guy who was here?"

"Dark-haired guy?"

Hayden nodded. "He left a message at the nurse's station that you went out like a light and to tell you he'd see you tomorrow. And something about when your knight in shining armor arrives, be kind to him." She gave Hayden a wink. "I suppose you know what that means?"

The flood of warm blood to her cheeks made her fan herself.

The nurse chuckled. "I can see about turning down the AC."

"It's cool enough. I'm just... ridiculous." Hayden laughed.

"I'd be ridiculous too; if I could find a knight. Hell, I'd take tarnished squire at this point in my life. Not much to choose from in the over fifty crowd. Most guys my age would rather raise a thirty-something wife. I suppose I could start hitting on the seventy-year-olds."

Hayden nodded, quite unsure what to say. Good luck? Sounds like a plan? My maybe-knight-in-shining armor has a rusty, sometimes bitchy almost-single dad who could be a catch if he was sobered up? The time they spent in Houston together, Hayden realized Cliff could be a pretty decent guy. He once offered to kick his son's ass, which was nice of him.

The door swung open and Hayden felt a surge of expectation. But her heart sank when through the door came Tag, Brandy, and speak of the devil—was that Cliff? Hayden's mouth dropped open. It was Cliff, or at least darker-haired version of Cliff. Did he color his hair? The nurse also gave him a double take before excusing herself.

"Hey gal." He gave her a hug. "My fool son been here yet?"

"He was here earlier today," Hayden said.

"Has he been here since he talked to your dad?"

"My dad?" Hayden swallowed. What was Cam doing?

"Calm down, Hayden." Tag sat himself in a chair at the foot of her bed. "What could go wrong during a talk with a Vorelli?"

"Oh, dear lord." Her head dropped against her pillow.

Cliff chuckled. "I told him to mind his manners."

"And he listens so well," Hayden said. She rubbed her tummy.

"He's got a lot to lose, and he knows it." Cliff patted her hand.

Hayden nodded.

"Here," Brandy pulled Dolly out of her purse. "Lily asked me to bring you Dolly, so you weren't alone tonight. She says Dolly will make you feel better. That she's magic."

Hayden smiled. She thought of Grandma Tate and hoped she was watching over them all. Blinking back sudden tears, she asked, "Is Lily here?"

"Connie took her to a movie," Brandy said.

"She took her, like drove her?" Hayden felt a surge of panic. Connie was a horrible driver—aggressive, even when she was sober, which was usually only half the day and it being late afternoon, that sober window was narrowing.

"I dropped Lily off at the theater and I'm picking her up when I leave here," Cliff said. "Lily has agreed to be my dinner date tonight, maybe some mini-golf. Though Lily says if I let her put some make-up on me, she can hide my wrinkles so I can find a new Aunt Mary."

Hayden covered her mouth and tried her best not to laugh but failed. "Oh Cliff, she didn't."

"She most certainly did. How's that for gratitude?" Cliff laughed. "Oh well, maybe it would work. Couldn't hurt."

"The nurse who was leaving when you came in is single. She was just saying she was looking for a good man when you guys came in. Could be fate?"

"Single and on the prowl, eh?" Cliff nodded. "Well, Hayden, seems you're on the mend, so I should be going. Let me know if my son gives you any more trouble and I'll give him a kick in the ass."

"Thank you for stopping by. I appreciate it." Cliff patted the top of her head. He was good at awkward, thoughtful gestures. "Now, you hurry on out of here before shift change." She gave him a wink. He smiled and took off.

"Isn't that some shit?" Tag's question was more of a statement. "If you'd have told me last year that we'd be sitting here together like this—my longtime best girl and my wife, who's knocked up by my cousin, fixing up my now about-to-be-divorced, borderline metro-sexual uncle with his new Loreal hair, I'd have told you you were full of shit or high as a kite."

Brandy gave him a look. "Ex-wife."

Tag took her by the hand and gave it a kiss. "Of course, ex-wife."

Hayden could see the hurt on Brandy's face. Brandy had loved Tag for so long, put up with so much humiliation. Hayden licked her lips. "Did the nurse leave any ice water? I am so dry. Brandy, I'd happily choke Tag so he can't say any more stupid stuff for a Sprite."

Brandy smiled. She gave Hayden's leg a rub. "My pleasure. Anything else I can get ya?"

Hayden shook her head.

As soon as Brandy left, Hayden pounced. "You're an idiot."

"Love you, too. Jesus, Hayden."

"She loves you. She's always loved you. Stop saying stupid things."

Tag leaned toward Hayden and whispered, "She wants a baby real bad and I won't do it. That's got her moody."

"So why don't you?"

"Have a baby?"

Hayden nodded.

"Because I'm going to die. I might hold on for a few years, but thinking I'll make it long enough to offer her a home and a real family is a pipe dream. It would probably be nicer to cut her loose. Let her find a guy who can give her all of that."

"You pick now to be rational and unselfish? Maybe you'll live long enough to find a cure. You never know."

"It's highly unlikely."

"It's not impossible."

"So, you'd suggest I start a family knowing full well I might not even live long enough to be there for the delivery? You'd honestly suggest that as an option?"

"You live until you die. More time isn't promised to anyone."

"I'd be purposely making Brandy a widow and a single mom."

"I'd never regret this baby, even though I'm doing it alone."

"But there's a difference, Hayden, you don't have to do it alone. You're choosing to be alone. No matter how much I want to be around—it won't be my choice."

#  CHAPTER 52

The day had been a series of highs and lows for Hayden. The lows of panic, fear, and drama offset by the highs of love, caring, and hope. She'd trade those highs for some peace. And a bit of sleep. But she didn't want to sleep if there was the possibility of Cam stopping in.

He would come and check on her. Surely. Maybe. She chewed on her lip. She hated not knowing where she stood. Tag said it was all on her to decide, but was it? She didn't want another relationship based on anything but love. And she didn't want to be told what to do or who to be. She wanted someone who loved her as is, like a can from the scratch and dent. She leaned back against her pillows and closed her eyes. She was tired. Body and soul.

Her door creaked, and she sat up quickly, adjusting her gown to make sure she was as presentable as she could be. Her mom and dad walked in. Her disappointment made more bitter by anxiety and exhaustion.

"Hi sweetheart," her dad said.

"Hey, Dad." She smiled at her dad, then turned to her mom. "Hey, Mom."

Her mom sat in the chair facing the foot of the bed and crossed one leg over the other.

Sean Green sat on the edge of her bed, taking her hand and holding it. "You doing all right?"

"Much better."

"Good. How's the baby?"

Her mom took a deep breath and exhaled hard. Her dad squeezed her hand in his.

"Everything seems fine. I'm supposed to get an ultrasound sometime today to make sure."

"I'm sure everything will be fine."

Hayden nodded and swallowed hard.

"It will be." He gave her a smile. "I'm glad to see you have a man in your life who loves you and protects you. Right, Momma?"

"He's as rude as any other Vorelli," she said.

Her dad gave her mom a look over his shoulder. "Remember to be nice, dear."

"I'm always nice. If looking out for my daughter's welfare is me being mean, then I guess I'm mean."

Her dad sighed. "Give me a hug, Princess." He pulled her in for a hug and whispered in her ear, "Cam loves you. He braved the dragon in her own lair and warned her he wasn't going anywhere, so she best get used to him."

"He did?"

"Right in her very own kitchen. Read her the riot act and left. I don't think she got a word in."

"Now that's hard to believe." Hayden smiled.

"I hear you two. Conspiring is what you're doing."

"What would we ever have to conspire about?" He gave Hayden a wink.

"Love you, Dad." Hayden gripped her father's hand. "Thank you."

He nodded and stood. "Love you, too."

Her mother came over and gave her a peck on her cheek. "I love you too, Hayden Renee. But you know that."

"I know. I love you, too."

"And I'm happy things worked out for you and... Cameron. It could have been a disaster. That was all I was trying to prevent. Another failed relationship at your age—"

"Enough, Judy. You've said enough. We best be heading home." Her dad motioned for her mother to come with him as he walked toward the door.

Her mother sniffed and stiffened but turned and followed him out of the room.

Hayden sighed, relieved that Cam 'taking care of things' evidently didn't turn into a blowup. She wondered what he was doing now. Should she call him? She was tempted, but still hesitant. She'd heard how much she meant to him from everyone but the one person who truly mattered—Cam. Now that she was not in crisis and going to survive, maybe he was no longer feeling that pull to be with her?

"Hello, Mrs. Matthews. You ready to take a look at your baby?" the nurse asked coming into the room with a wheelchair.

"Sure," she said, but she wasn't. She'd hoped Cam would make it back in time to do this with her.

The nurse helped her into the chair and off they went to radiology. In the darkened room, while Hayden waited for the tech to arrive she allowed a few tears to slip down her cheeks. There was no one to notice or judge her. It was a safe place to be disappointed.

The heavy door swung open allowing a flood of light into the room that made her flinch and turn away.

"Sorry about that. I should have given you some warning," the tech said.

"It's all right."

"Good," she said. "So, do you know this guy? I found him wandering like a lost puppy in the halls."

As her eyes readjusted to the darkness, she saw him, towering above the tech. "Cam," she said. She couldn't control the tears or the smile.

"I take that as a yes. Is he's allowed to stay?"

"Yes, yes, of course."

Cam looked relieved.

The tech directed him to the space at the top of her head. Hayden looked up at him. His hand brushed through her hair. Leaning forward, he kissed her forehead.

"Let's take a peek at that baby. Do you know how far along you are?"

"Fourteen weeks minus a day or two."

"Date of your last period?"

"Not a clue."

"I suppose that's why you're here." She positioned a blanket at Hayden's waist before revealing her belly. She took the wand and smeared the warm jelly on her stomach and started the machine. She took a few measurements and clicking shots as she moved the wand over her belly.

"Can you tell if it's a boy or a girl?" Hayden asked.

"No, it's still a tiny little thing. I'd guess you're about right on the age, but the doctor will check the measurements and give you a better estimate. Mine is just a guess based on how much room it still has to bounce around in there. Like a little cowboy, or girl," she chuckled.

"So," Cam's voice was thick with emotion. He had to stop to clear it before finishing. "What am I looking at?"

The tech chuckled. "This your first ultrasound?"

"Yeah. Is that it?" Cam pointed at the screen.

"No, that's the top of the uterus." A few clicks and there was a pointer on the screen. "Here's the baby. See the head? The heartbeat?"

Cam leaned closer. "Holy shit. I see it." The baby lifted its arm and kicked its leg. "It's moving."

"Yeah, babies move," the tech laughed.

"It's like it's alive in there."

"Of course, it's alive."

Hayden reached out and took him by his hand. He sounded more excited than a child at Christmas. This wasn't a man who was feeling a simple obligation.

"Can I get pictures of it?"

"Certainly." She checked the machine. "I'm out of paper. Let me run and get some."

Alone in the room, Cam pulled her hand to his lips and kissed it.

"I was afraid you wouldn't make it back in time."

"I had a few things to do."

"Talk to my parents?"

"Yeah, there was that. And I wanted to do some shopping."

"Shopping?"

"Yeah." He reached into his pocket. "I could probably find a better one in Pittsburgh, but I didn't want to go that far. Just going to the mall took me an hour. And I was trying to think of romantic ways to do this, but I feel like you've given me the greatest gift I could ask for, so I needed to get you something."

"Gift?"

He kissed her. "This." He held his hand on her belly. "This is more than I ever could have hoped for. And all I got you was this bit of metal."

He handed her a small wooden box with a butterfly carved into the lid.

"I showed Lily what I got you and she gave me the box. She said Grandma Tate told her I'd need it, for a ring. Lily said you'd know about it. You guys talked about it."

Hayden was confused for a moment, but then she remembered the conversation with Helen. "Grandma Tate told me God wanted me to be happy. And that when she died, she'd send a sign—butterflies and stuff if she was right. Lightning strikes if she was wrong."

"Butterflies. That's a good sign."

Hayden opened the lid. Inside the wooden box was a ring. A single solitaire.

"The jeweler promised it was flawless. Perfection for the perfect woman."

"Oh Cam." Tears blurred her vision. "I love you."

He kissed her. "You will marry me, won't you?"

She ran her hands through his hair as he leaned over her. She kissed his lips. "I suppose. I mean, I would never say no to Grandma Tate."

Cam smiled. "Old girl is still looking out for me."

#  ABOUT HER

**PROLOGUE PREVIEW**

The sounds of sirens filtered through her window and made Shelley feel even more homesick. They were all wrong over here with their wee-wu sound. She'd shut the window, but the European idea of air conditioning left her feeling like she was living in a sweat box. She couldn't even get a refreshing, icy drink because Europeans were obviously all about the suffering.

She'd decided. As soon as her contract was up, she was quitting and heading back to the states. But first she'd need a job. She could call her dad, but then she'd be living under his thumb all over again. She couldn't do that. Hot, iceless Europe was more tolerable than that.

Picking up her phone, she called Cam. Maybe he'd do an old friend a solid.

"Hello," he answered.

"Cam," Shelley said. "your voice is music to my ears."

"Shelley Ward. How the hell are you?"

"I'm—miserable. I hate it here. The football isn't really football. I mean it looks like football, but there is no intensity. It's just a game here."

"Sorry to hear that. Can you quit?"

"As soon as my contract is up. I have six more months to go."

"Hopefully those months fly by."

"Hopefully." She bit her cheek. "Hey, I didn't just call to bitch, I was calling for a favor."

"I'm a happily married man now, you know."

Shelley laughed. "Yes, yes, I've heard. My mother emailed me the baby announcement from the paper. He's a cutie. I'm jealous."

"You should see him now. He's growing like a weed, rolling over, sitting up. He's amazing."

"And Hayden is well?"

"She's doing great."

"That's good to hear." Shelley bit her lip. "My mom said your parents got divorced. Is that true?"

"It is. Between you and me, I'm still shocked."

"My mom says he's looking real hot."

"Oh hell, you're not going to ask me to hook you up with my dad, are you? Is that the favor?"

Shelley slapped her leg and let out a laugh. "No, not that. I was calling for you to point me in the direction of a job, but now that you mention it—you know how much I enjoy a silver fox."

"Not going to happen." Cam laughed. "Anything but that."

"Tag still single?"

"Also married, got a baby on the way."

"Being married never mattered to him before."

"Still might not, but also a situation you should avoid."

"Well fine, since I can't have the runner-ups in your family, could you help me find a job? You are Mr. Football now working for the pros. Is there a spot for a gal who never wants to work for her dad and grandpa ever again? I swear, I'll even sweep floors."

"Let me make a few calls. I'm sure I have a broom here somewhere."

Shelley hung up the phone and laid it against her chest. She stared up at the ceiling. She'd been afraid to make the call, assuming Cam would dodge her now that he was married. She had to admit; he sounded happy, possibly excited to hear from her. And he didn't want her with Tag or his dad. Was he maybe jealous? A smile crept across her face. Maybe Cam wasn't as happily married as he'd claimed?

#  About the Author

Elizabeth divides her time between her beach cottage and her scrupulously clean house in the hills of West Virginia.

Oops. That's fantasy Elizabeth. The real Elizabeth spends her days schlepping after her four boys (five if you count their father) and the assortment of pets they swore they'd take care of.

She does live in West Virginia; the house is clean when the mother-in-law visits; and she does have serious dreams of living at the beach.

Elizabeth is a Marshall University graduate with a degree in counseling. This has proven very beneficial when dealing with the make-believe friends she hangs out with all day (she calls this 'writing').

**Website:**   
elizabethseckman.com

**Blog:**   
eseckman.blogspot.com

**Facebook:**   
facebook.com/eseckmanbooks

#  Other Books by Elizabeth

ROMANTIC SUSPENSE  
_Swept Away_

CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE  
_Hoosier Dad_  
_Past Due (Book 1 of The Coulter Men Series)_  
_Healing Summer (Book 2 of The Coulter Men Series)_  
_Fate Intended (Book 3 of The Coulter Men Series)_  
_Defying Reason (Book 4 of The Coulter Men Series)_

HISTORICAL ROMANCE  
_Bella's Point_

ANTHOLOGY CONTRIBUTIONS  
_Full Dark: A Benefit Anthology_  
_Hero Lost: Mysteries of Death and Life_  
_Tempting Treasures: 6 Sexy Romances You Will Love_

**Where to Buy:**  
elizabethseckman.com/wheretobuy

