 
## Then Came Alexandra

### Book One of the Southern Love Series

E. L. Todd

This is a work of fiction. All the characters and events portrayed in this novel are fictitious or used fictitiously. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any electronic or mechanical means, including information storage and retrieval systems, without written permission from the publisher or author, except in the case of a reviewer, who may quote brief passages in a review.

Then Came Alexandra

E.L. Todd

Copyright E.L. Todd 2013

Smashwords Edition
Chapter One

Paul took the bag from her hands and tossed it on the floor. "No."

She kept calm. "The harder you fight this, the harder you're going to make it for yourself." She grabbed the bag again.

He kicked it away. "You aren't leaving, Alex. I won't let you."

"Paul, this is going to happen whether you want it to or not. Now let me go."

His eyes darkened. "Are you deaf? I said you aren't leaving."

Alex took a deep breath and controlled the emotion she felt. "We're done. We've been done for over a week."

He shook his head, his anger shining through. "I'm not letting you abandon this relationship. We can work on it."

Alexandra snapped and pushed him. "This relationship is over. You threw it all away."

He gripped his hair in frustration. "You're the one who's been completely out of touch. For the past month, you've been nothing but a zombie. When I talk, you don't even listen. You don't care about anyone or anything, including yourself. Now tell me what's bothering you."

Alexandra could never tell him her darkest secret. It consumed her mind every moment of every day. Life hadn't been the same. She couldn't find herself again. No matter what she did, she felt hollow and empty. She pushed Paul away, wanting to be alone. "Let me go, Paul."

He grabbed her by the shoulders and shook her. "I love you, Alexandra. I fucking love you."

"Fuck you." She jerked away. "If you loved me, you wouldn't have cheated on me."

His eyes darkened. "Alexandra—"

"Get the fuck away from me." She grabbed the bag and put it over her shoulder. Her tears were starting to bubble but she kept them back.

"This isn't fair," he snapped. "I tried to fix this relationship the entire time, but you didn't give a shit. I reached out to you. I asked you to work on it with me. I was here every night trying to get you to talk to me. Every time I kissed you, you pushed me away. And we haven't had sex in months."

"So that makes it okay to sleep with someone else?"

Paul stared at her, despair evident on his face. "I didn't sleep with anyone."

"You're such a liar."

"I'm not lying!"

Alexandra moved to the hallway. The apartment had been furbished when they moved in, so she didn't own any of it. The couches in the living room would stay behind, as well as the TV and the kitchen table. Alexandra had nothing of her own. Nothing to take with her.

Paul followed her to the door. "Alex, just talk to me."

Alexandra was feeling the weight of her grief. She loved Paul, always had. When they first got together, she thought he was the one. They were supposed to get married and be happy together. But she was mistaken. She blinked her eyes to keep the tears back. "I'm done talking. And the fact you're justifying what you did because I haven't been in the best mood is even worse. You're such a fucking pig."

He pushed her against the wall, boxing her in. "You're the love of my life, Alex. Do you understand me?"

She was pinned to the wall, unable to move. He was twice her size, and his large hands gripped her shoulders.

"I've never been happier than when I've been with you. Everything was perfect until you suddenly shut down. I have no idea what's going on with you. Our relationship died the moment you pushed me away. I can't keep saving a relationship if I'm the only one in it." He stared her down. "I've had my problems too, but you weren't there for me. So I found comfort in someone else."

Her heart throbbed at his words. "I don't even know you anymore."

"Alexandra, I don't want anyone but you. But I've been depressed like hell. I have a girlfriend that won't tell me what the fuck is wrong. You say I cheated but I haven't.

She moved from his arms and headed toward the door. "Goodbye, Paul."

"No." He slammed the door closed.

"If our relationship is dead, why are you chasing me?"

"Because I don't want it to be dead," he snapped. "You drive me fucking crazy but I'll do anything to make this work. Please talk to me."

"There's nothing to discuss."

Paul took a deep breath. "Alex, I love you."

She averted her gaze.

"I said I love you."

The words escaped from her mouth as a whisper. "I love you too."

"Please don't go," he begged.

The tears were pounding behind her eyes, demanding to flow freely. "I can't look at you the same."

He sighed. "I didn't sleep with her."

"You still cheated on me," she said. "I was falling apart and you were with someone else."

"Don't fucking pull that shit," he snapped. "I tried to be there for you but you pushed me away. You can't hold that against me. You were a shitty girlfriend and there's no excuse for that. If you aren't going to treat me the way I deserve, someone else will. I'm sorry I hurt you. I really am. But it never would have happened if you didn't treat me that way."

She shook her head, her heart stinging. "That's no excuse."

"It's not an excuse. It's a validation."

"Goodbye, Paul."

"Alex, please don't go. We can make this work. Let's start over."

"No."

He sighed, running his fingers through his hair. "Where are you going? To Jessica's?"

Alexandra had no intention of staying in the city. But he didn't need to know that. She opened the door and walked out.

Paul grabbed her by the arm. His eyes were red with forming tears. His breathing was deep and ragged. The firm grip on her arm told her how desperate he was to keep her by his side. The pain on his face was even more painful to watch. Alexandra hated hurting him.

He grabbed her face and kissed her, his lips expressing his love and pain. Alexandra tried to pull away but Paul wouldn't let her. It was his last attempt and it couldn't be thwarted.

Alexandra felt a tear roll down his face and touch her lip. It was warm and salty. She pulled away but didn't look at him, unable to see the immense pain on his face. She walked out the door without looking back, leaving him standing in the apartment.

When she made it to the street, the tears finally fell freely. They rolled down her face, moving to her lips and her tongue. She waved down a cab, ignoring all the people who passed her on the sidewalk. No one looked at her. No one noticed. New Yorkers always cared more about their destination than their journey.

When she arrived at the airport, she checked in and got onto the plane. She took a seat by the window, looking at the city one last time. She moved there for college but now she couldn't stand the sight of the place. The tall skyscrapers blocked out most of the city, casting shadows and darkness.

She thought of her friends. They would be devastated when they found out she moved from the city without telling a soul where she went. It was a weak move, but Alexandra had never felt more hurt than she did then. She could never tell anyone what happened. It was a secret she'd take to the grave.

Leaving Paul was harder than she thought it would be. When they met at NYU, he was perfect, exactly what she wanted in another person. He was handsome, smart, funny, and easy to be around. But then he started to disregard her feelings in light of his own, flirt with other girls when he thought Alexandra wouldn't find out, and spent most of his nights drinking until he couldn't remember anything. That's when everything started to change. Rumors of him with other girls would come back to her. Paul always denied them, but Alexandra wasn't sure if she should believe him. Since there was no trust, there was no relationship. After the incident at the hospital, Alexandra was even more reclusive. She didn't want him in her life any longer. If he wasn't in it for the long haul, she couldn't waste any more of her time. And the only way to move on was to do it in a new place, which is why she was on a plane to Savannah, Georgia.
Chapter Two

She hadn't been to Savannah in so long, she forgot the smell. It had an odor of grass mixed with the salt of the sea. She was a few miles away from the coast, but she knew it was nearby.

It was evening when she arrived at the airport. She gave the taxi driver the address to her aunt's home, away from the inner city. She sat in the backseat, silent as a mime.

When the small country house came into view and the wrap-around porch was visible in the glow from the house, she felt her heart race. Flashes of memories came into her mind. She used to sit in that rocking chair when she was a little girl, licking an ice cream cone her aunt gave her. She was so short, her legs didn't even touch the ground. Her aunt had to rock the chair for her, bouncing it back and forth.

Alexandra paid the cab driver then approached the front door. The crickets were loud, singing their midnight song. She carried her bags forward and listened to the cab pull back onto the main road.

The sound of barking made her flinch. Two Rottweilers sprinted across the yard, barking and snarling as they approached her. Alexandra stiffened as they growled at her, ready to rip her leg off.

"Hey boys," she said in a gentle voice. "It's me." She extended her hand. Both dogs smelled it. After a few moments, they seemed assuaged. They jumped on their hind legs, then pawed her thighs. Alexandra laughed. "I missed you too."

The front door opened, and her aunt stood there, holding a shotgun.

Alexandra's eyes widened. "It's just me," she said quickly. "Alex."

Her aunt sighed in relief, then put the gun down.

"Why do you have a gun?" Alexandra hissed.

"For protection," she said as she put her hands on her hips.

"Isn't that what your dogs are for?"

Her Aunt Martha stared them down. "Well, they aren't very good at keeping trespassers out, obviously."

They both let their tongues hang out, the drool dripping down.

Alexandra smiled. "I apologize for scaring you."

"I'm sorry I almost shot your head off." She hugged Alexandra tightly. "But a warning of your arrival would have been appreciated."

"I'm sorry. I just forgot to call."

"Come inside," she said, grabbing Alexandra's bags.

The living room was exactly how Alexandra remembered it. A large rocking chair sat in the middle of the room, the form of a man still molded into the fabric. Statues of porcelain chickens were dispersed on shelves and tables.

"I'll show you to the spare bedroom," Martha said as she carried the bags down the hall.

Alexandra followed her aunt. The queen-size bed still looked unused. The dark wooden furniture hadn't changed in the years since she'd been there. It even had the same smell.

Martha looked at her. "What brings you here?"

Alexandra shrugged. "I just wanted to visit."

"How long are you staying?"

Alexandra wasn't sure what to say.

"Not that I'm rushing you," Martha said with a laugh. "I'm just curious."

"I haven't decided."

Her aunt narrowed her eyes. The thick eyebrows of her face looked even darker when they were furrowed. She crossed her arms over her chest, looking suspicious. "Is there something I should know about?"

Alexandra hated lying. She was never any good at it. "I just needed a break."

"From what?"

"Life..."

"You aren't pregnant, are you?"

Alexandra glared at her.

"Hey, I had to ask."

"No, I'm not," Alexandra said firmly.

"Then what's going on?"

"Can you grill me in the morning?" Alexandra asked. She ran her fingers through her hair then yawned.

"I'm being a rude hostess, aren't I?"

"Just a tad."

"I'll let you get some sleep, kid."

"Thank you."

Martha kissed Alexandra on the forehead. "I'm happy you're here, whatever the reason."

"Good night."

Her aunt shut the door. The creak of the floorboards was heard as she moved down the hall. Alexandra sat in the darkness for a long time, listening to the crickets outside. The sound of her own breathing was loud in her ears. The pain and despair she felt moved up her throat but she kept the tears back. It was pointless to worry about the past, letting it eat away at her. She was there for a reason, to move on. And that's what she was going to do.
Chapter Three

Alexandra woke to the sound of her aunt working in the kitchen. Plates banged against the countertop, and the stove burned as a pan sizzled with grease. Alexandra tried to go back to sleep but it was no use. She got dressed then left the bedroom.

Alexandra looked at the clock. "Aunt Martha, it's five in the morning!"

Martha moved the bacon to a plate, pouring the grease into a metal container. "Yes, I'm aware of that."

"Why are you up so early?"

"I'm always awake this early." She carried the plates to the kitchen table, along with some juice. "There's too much work to be done to sleep all day."

Alexandra sat down and yawned. "Sleeping until eight isn't sleeping all day."

"It's still a waste of time." Martha ate her pancakes and eggs, poised like she always was. "Aren't you going to eat?"

"Sorry. I just can't stop yawning." She picked up her fork and dug in.

"So, you want to do this now or later?"

Alexandra sighed. "I couldn't live in New York anymore..."

"I'm assuming you and Paul broke up?"

Alexandra nodded.

"And why is that?"

She shrugged. "He just—wasn't the right person for me."

"You were together for two years. It took you that long to figure it out?" She had a smile on her lips and a twinkle in her eye.

"People don't fall in love instantly like you and Mike." Alexandra poured more syrup on her plate, drenching her pancakes.

Martha eyed her. "That's how love is supposed to be, dear. You don't need more than a day to figure it out."

Alexandra rolled her eyes. "Well, not everyone finds their soul mate."

Martha drank from her glass. "So, why did it end?"

"He—he did something I couldn't forgive him for."

Her aunt finished everything on her plate then crossed her arms over her chest, looking at her niece. "Then it sounds like you made the right decision."

Alexandra averted her gaze.

"But that doesn't explain why you came all the way out here. You're running from something else."

"I—I don't want to talk about it."

"Now or ever?"

Alexandra still couldn't look at her aunt. "I'm not sure yet."

Martha stared at her for a long moment, eyeing the brown hair that was so similar to her own. She finally dropped the look, leaving her niece in peace. "Should I call your mother and tell her you're here?"

"Please don't," Alexandra said quickly.

Martha raised an eyebrow. "Why?"

"I'll tell her when I'm ready."

"Savannah isn't that big. She might find out anyway."

"I'll take my chances." Alexandra finished the food on her plate then pushed it away. "Thank you for breakfast."

"You're very welcome."

Alexandra gathered the plates and carried them to the sink, washing and drying each one by hand before she returned them to the cabinet. Her aunt watched her the entire time.

"Are you staying for long?"

Alexandra washed her hands then patted them dry. "Yes, but I'll get my own place soon. I won't be in your hair forever."

"That wasn't why I was asking."

"I know," she said gently.

"I hope you find what you're looking for, Alex."

"Me too."

Martha grabbed her boots by the door and put them on. "Now I have to tend to the cotton."

Alexandra eyed her. "You don't pay someone to do that?"

"Do you think I'm rich?" Martha asked with a laugh. "With the cost of water, repairs on the machine, and transportation, I barely make a good salary for myself. I can't afford to pay anyone else."

"But what about your back?" Alexandra asked with a voice full of concern.

Martha smiled. "I'm always careful, dear."

"Let me help," Alexandra said immediately. "It's the least I can do since you're letting me stay here."

"That's very sweet, dear. But you don't know anything about cotton."

"You could teach me."

Martha put her hands on her hips and looked her niece in the eye. "Did you come here to learn how to grow cotton or do something else?"

Alexandra said nothing.

"That's what I thought. Don't worry about it." Martha walked out the door.

Alexandra stood in the kitchen for a moment before she followed her aunt outside. She walked onto the field and watched her aunt move toward the irrigation tanks. When Alexandra came beside her, she watched her.

Her aunt smiled. "Your compassion always gets to you, doesn't it?"

Alexandra raised an eyebrow. "It's not compassion. I just want to help."

"I guess you don't know the definition." She turned the knobs and started irrigating the fields.

Alexandra watched her, trying to remember everything she did. She didn't know anything about farming. She grew up in the south but spent most of her time buried in a book, not walking across the fields. It was a world she was unfamiliar with, despite her closeness to it.

It took them an hour to properly irrigate the field. Fall was approaching but the weather was still scorching with heat. The sun had barely crested the horizon but Alexandra was starting to sweat. She couldn't believe her fifty-year-old aunt did this every day. She was in better shape than Alexandra was.

When they went back into the house, it was almost noon.

"Wow," Alexandra said. "That took a long time."

"Aren't you glad we did it in the morning? Imagine working in the scorching sun."

Alexandra shook her head. "That wouldn't have been pretty."

Her aunt looked at her. "What are you going to do today?"

Alexandra was quiet for a moment. "I have a few errands to run."

"If you go downtown, you'll find a lot of people your age. I have a few friends with some lovely daughters."

She smiled. "Thanks. I could always use more friends."

"Do you need a ride?"

"Oh yeah," Alexandra said. "I guess." She was still used to the city, where everything was in walking distance or a cab was just a few feet away.

"Where are you headed?"

"The university."

Martha stared at her. "And what will you be doing there?"

"Enrolling..."

"But you already have your degree."

Alexandra was quiet for a moment. "I just need a few extra classes."

Her aunt still seemed suspicious.

"I'm ready to go whenever you are," Alexandra said.

Martha grabbed the keys and they got into her pickup truck. When they drove to town, they were both silent. Country music played on the radio. Alexandra never liked the music. It seemed redundant and boring. But she knew she should get used to it since she was living in Georgia.

When they arrived downtown, it was buzzing with life. Students walked down the sidewalk, moving into the restaurants and shops. Everyone was enjoying the final days of summer. The girls wore summer dresses with cowboy boots. Guys eyed them discreetly from a few feet away.

Her aunt pulled into the university parking lot. "I'll wait for you."

Alexandra looked out the window, spotting the hospital just a few blocks away. "I'm going to be awhile. Can I just call you when I'm ready?"

"Sure."

"Thank you, Aunt Martha."

"I'll see you soon, kid."

Alexandra left the truck and walked into the building. She was wearing jean shorts and a plain top, nothing fancy. She felt a little unprofessional wearing that in a university, but it was too late to worry about it. She walked to the admissions office and waited in line.

"I can help you," the receptionist said. She stared at Alexandra and waited for her to speak, looking flustered and annoyed.

Alexandra cleared her throat. "I'd like to enroll here."

"Okay. Did you already apply?"

"Yes." She handed over her acceptance letter.

The woman looked through it. "Okay." She typed on her computer before she generated an ID card and paperwork. "Sign here."

Alexandra looked at the fees, her eyes wide. "Why is it so expensive? It should be three hundred dollars a unit."

"That's the undergraduate rate. You don't qualify if you already have a bachelor's."

"Oh." Alexandra didn't realize that.

"Will that be a problem?"

Alexandra signed the paper. "No."

The woman took the document, then handed her a sheet. "Here's your class schedule."

"Thank you." Alexandra looked at the English courses she was taking that semester. She walked out, then headed toward the hospital. Before she went inside, she stared at the building, feeling anxiety come over her. After taking a deep breath, she entered.

"Are there any positions available?" Alexandra asked the secretary.

She adjusted her glasses and looked at her. "A few. What are you qualified for?"

"Uh...well, I have a bachelor's degree."

"In what?"

"Nursing."

"We have three night shift positions available in the ER."

"Uh...do you have anything else? Maybe a tech position?"

The woman eyed her before she looked at her computer. "There's one in the emergency room."

Alexandra thought for a moment. "There're no vacancies in the other departments?"

The woman was growing irritated. "I just told you what we had. Are you interested in applying or not?"

"Yes," Alexandra said quickly.

The woman took out the applications and handed them to Alexandra.

"Just the tech position," Alexandra said, handing back the other papers.

The secretary looked at her like she was crazy.

Alexandra took a seat in the lobby and filled out the application. She didn't want to work in the hospital but she didn't have a choice. It was the only thing she was qualified to do, and she couldn't live with her aunt forever.

After she was finished with the application, she submitted it. When she walked out, she headed toward the restaurants on the main road. She didn't bring her cell phone so she couldn't call her aunt. There wasn't a pay phone in sight. She walked into a bar and headed to the back.

"What can I get you?" the guy asked.

"Can I borrow your phone, please?" she asked nicely.

The bartender looked over her body, eyeing her curves and her slim waist. "Sure, honey."

Alexandra immediately felt annoyed.

He grabbed the phone and handed it over, smiling at her. His eyes kept lurking on her breasts.

Alexandra turned around and dialed her aunt's number. "Hey, it's me."

"Why didn't you call me from your cell phone?"

"Uh, I forgot it."

"It's a good thing you have your looks, dear."

"I'm at Rob's Bar and Grill."

"I'll be there soon."

Alexandra hung up and handed the phone back.

"I've never seen you before," he said. "Are you new here?"

She tucked a strand behind her ear. "Yeah. Thank you for letting me use your phone." She walked away and sat at a table in the corner. Students crowded the place, chatting and laughing together. She may have a class with some of these people. Alexandra wasn't interested in socializing, not when she was so depressed, but she knew she needed to start.

Two girls were sitting at the table next to hers, talking about the upcoming school year.

"I have to take principles of biology this semester," the brunette said, rolling her eyes. "Who am I going to cheat off of?"

The blonde girl laughed. "The first guy you see."

They were both wearing dresses and heels, looking glamorous. Alexandra could tell they were the pretty girls of the town. The elite.

"I don't even want to go to school," the girl continued. "My dad is making me."

"That sucks," the blonde said. "I'm just going so I can find Mr. Right."

"Good luck with that."

Her aunt walked inside and approached the table. Martha was wearing a loose fitting dress and her hair was done in curls. She didn't look like the sweaty farmer from that morning. She was refined and poised.

"Wow," Alexandra said. "You look nice."

Martha smiled. "Just because I'm old doesn't mean I've lost it."

Alexandra laughed. "Obviously not."

Martha turned to the girls. "What a surprise."

They both smiled. "Hey, Mrs. Thompson."

Martha hugged each one. "How are you, Lisa?"

The brunette twirled her hair. "Just dreading school."

"It'll pay off," Martha said. "Don't worry about that."

The blonde girl sat up straight. "I'm just hoping I find a cute guy that's almost smart."

"They are rare, Hannah, but they exist," Martha said. "Keep looking." She turned to Alexandra. "This is my niece, Alexandra."

"Hello," Alexandra said politely.

"She's new here," Martha said.

"Where are you from?" Lisa asked.

"New York."

"Wow," Hannah said. "Have you seen Sarah Jessica Parker in real life?"

Alexandra laughed. "Actually, I have."

"That's so cool," Lisa said. "So what are you doing here?"

Alexandra shifted her weight in the seat. "I'm just here for school."

"Cool," Hannah said. "We both go to the university too."

"How do you know my aunt?" Alexandra asked.

"Our moms are friends," Lisa explained. "They get together once a week and have wine night."

"That sounds like fun," Alexandra said.

"It is," Martha said. "We usually gossip about their husbands and daughters. I guess I'll be discussing you." She winked.

"I hope it will be good things," Alexandra said.

"Me too," Martha said. She turned to the girls. "Alexandra is new here. I'd appreciate it if you spent some time with her."

"Of course," Lisa said. "We'd be happy to."

Alexandra was surprised how nice these two girls were. When she overheard them talking, she assumed they were rude bimbos. Now she felt bad for ever thinking it.

"Can you take her home when you're done?" Martha asked.

"Consider it done," Hannah said.

"I'll see you later, Alex."

"Bye, Aunt Martha."

Her aunt left the grill and shut the door behind her.

Lisa looked at Alexandra. "Join our table." She pulled a chair out.

Slowly, Alexandra moved into the seat.

"So, what really brings you to Savannah?" Lisa asked.

Alexandra didn't want to drop all her personal shit on these two strangers. She wanted to make friends, not scare them away. "For school. I'm majoring in English."

"You came all the way from New York to go to school?" Hannah asked incredulously.

Alexandra shrugged. "It's a nice place."

"Alex, do you have a boyfriend?" Lisa drank from her water.

"No," Alexandra said immediately.

"That's surprising," Hannah said. "You're so pretty."

"Oh." Alexandra wasn't expecting the compliment. "Thank you..."

"You kinda look like Martha," Lisa said, staring at her face. "You have the same green eyes."

"I'll take that as a compliment," Alexandra said.

Hannah played with the braid over her shoulder. "So, why did you pick English?"

Alexandra stilled for a moment. "It's safe."

"Safe?" Lisa asked. "Aren't writing jobs hard to come by?"

"Uh, I guess." Alexandra wanted to change the subject. "What are you guys going to school for?"

"I'm trying to find a boyfriend," Hannah said.

Alexandra tried not to laugh. "But what's your major?"

"Kinesiology."

"Do you want to be a physical therapist?" Alexandra said.

"P.E. teacher," Hannah said.

"Oh, cool," Alexandra said. "What about you, Lisa?"

"I've changed my major four times. Right now, it's biology." Lisa twirled her hair in her fingertips. "Cole is going to get half of the biggest cotton producer in the state. Hopefully, I won't even have to finish college."

"Who's Cole?" Alexandra asked.

"My boyfriend," Lisa said with a smile. "And he's really fine."

Alexandra didn't know what to say to that. She would never consider the idea of a man taking care of her. There was no guarantee that he'd always be there. If things went wrong, she'd be left with nothing. She was too independent to ever let that happen. Perhaps that was why Paul was always so irritated with her.

Hannah turned to Alexandra. "Are you excited to start school?"

"A little," she said. "But I'm a little nervous."

"Don't worry," Lisa said. "You have two friends with you. If you get lost, we'll help you out."

"Thanks," Alexandra said.

"And we're going to the cornfield party in a few weeks," Hannah said. "You should come."

Alexandra didn't care for parties. It wasn't her scene. But she was desperate for company. "Sure. Thanks for the invite."

Lisa clapped. "We have a new girl in our circle."

"I hope I'm worthy of that circle," Alexandra said.

"Of course you are, Alex," Lisa said. "If you're related to Martha, you're automatically in. She's so cool."

Alexandra smiled. "She is pretty awesome."

"After everything she's been through, she's so strong," Hannah said. "It was devastating when she lost Mike. She was torn apart but she still took care of her fields and kept going, moving on."

Alexandra remembered when her uncle died. He'd been hit by a drunk driver. Two of his passengers died in the crash as well. Aunt Martha wasn't there because she was too sick to go out. It could have claimed her life as well.

"Well, we should get going," Lisa said. "I can take you home."

"Thanks," Alexandra said.

They said goodbye to Hannah before they climbed into Lisa's pickup. It was red with dirt smudged over the doors. Alexandra sat beside her and felt the truck shake slightly as they drove down the road.

"You don't have a car yet?" Lisa asked.

"I need to save up some cash."

"Make sure you get a truck. Otherwise, you won't survive."

"I barely know how to drive a car," Alexandra said with a laugh. "And I haven't driven a car in almost five years."

"That's right," Lisa said. "New Yorkers walk everywhere. That's probably why you're in such good shape."

Alexandra felt her cheeks redden from the compliment. She didn't respond.

When they pulled up to the yard, the dogs came running out. They weren't barking, just moving toward the door.

"Hey, Tommy," Lisa said as she rolled down the window.

The dog licked her hand.

"They aren't very good protectors," Alexandra said with a smile.

"Protectors?" she asked. "They know me. They would never hurt me. Plus, I usually bring them treats."

"That's a good way to win favor with them."

"I guess I'll see you later."

"Thanks for the ride," Alexandra said.

"Anytime."

She walked into the house and saw a note on the refrigerator. Her dinner was inside. Alexandra took it out and reheated it before she went outside and ate on the porch. Her aunt had already gone to bed even though it wasn't late. But since she got up so early, Alexandra understood why she was so tired.

The dogs sat beside her, eyeing the plate in her hands. They didn't reach for it. Alexandra stared into the darkness, thinking about her new life in the south. It wasn't as bad as she thought it would be. Nothing here reminded her of New York. Paul was in her mind but she pushed him away.

At least she made two friends today, enrolled in school, and applied for her first job. She desperately needed something. It was rude of her to drop in on her aunt without giving her any notice. And she felt guilty for eating her food, especially when her aunt said she barely got by on her profits.

Alexandra sighed as she thought about the weight on her shoulders. She was twenty-two and needed to get her life together. She had already messed up irrevocably and she mourned for a long time, but feeling guilty wouldn't change anything.
Chapter Four

Blaise walked into the living room and sighed. The ice cream carton sitting on the table had melted. Now the liquid was seeping over the sides, spilling across the wood. An open bag of popcorn and a coke bottle were sitting beside it. Danielle was watching TV, oblivious to all of this.

"Could you please not make a mess?" He kept his voice down, but the annoyance escaped his lips.

"What?" she asked, not looking at him. Her favorite reality show was on. And that meant he didn't exist.

He grabbed the carton. "It's getting everywhere, Danielle."

"Oh," she said, glancing at it. "Sorry."

"Pick it up. I'm not your mom."

"I'll do it later."

That just pissed him off even more. "No, you'll do it now."

"Just go away," she snapped. "You're being so annoying right now. It's just a small mess."

He clenched his fists in frustration. "This is my house."

"I live here too!"

"I want you out."

She rolled her eyes. "Shut up, Blaise."

"I mean it. Get the fuck out of my house. I'm done with you."

She sighed, then picked up her mess. "Okay. I'm sorry." She carried it into the kitchen and threw it away.

"Now get your shit."

"What?" She stared at him like he was crazy.

"That doesn't change anything. I can't do this anymore, Danielle. We're over."

Fear came into her face, stretching her eyes. "What..."

He looked away, unable to watch the hurt on her face. "This relationship is over. It's been over for a long time. There's no point in dragging it out any longer."

"But I love you, Blaise."

"No, you don't," he snapped.

"Yes, I do!" She came to him and wrapped her arms around his waist. "I do."

He pushed her away. "We don't even have sex anymore."

"Let's do it now."

"No," he said quickly. "That's not what I'm implying. There's nothing here."

She held her hands together, clenching them tightly.

Blaise avoided her gaze. He asked her to move in after he knocked her up. It was the right thing to do and he knew he needed to take care of her. But after she had a miscarriage, it changed everything. The relationship was meaningless, just a mistake. He had to get rid of her.

"I'll change," she whispered. "I'm sorry."

"Danielle, nothing you say will change anything. I want you out in the morning."

Tears fell down her face like a waterfall. She sobbed deeply, her wails echoing throughout the house. "I'm scared. You're the only one who can protect me. If I leave...he'll find me."

He sighed, hating listening to her cry.

"I don't have anywhere to go. I'll be homeless..." She sniffed loudly. "And Evan will hurt me the first chance he gets. You're the only reason he stays away. He's scared of you."

"Stay with your girlfriends."

"I can't do that," she said through her tears. "He'll come in the middle of the night. No one cares about me. I have no one to look out for me."

Blaise gripped his hair. Her psycho ex-boyfriend had it out for her. Blaise already beat the shit out of him once, but that didn't mean he wouldn't attack Danielle again as soon as she moved out. Like last time, he would beat her, probably putting her in the hospital. Danielle slept with Blaise when they were still together and Evan was still pissed about it. But Blaise had to be strong. He couldn't let Danielle ruin his life forever. "You can stay here until you get a job and get your own place."

The volume of her tears died down at his words. "Please don't do this to me. He'll kill me!"

Blaise crossed his arms over his chest, then looked around the room at anything but her. He hated living with her, seeing her every day, but he couldn't leave her vulnerable. He was a man, and he needed to protect her. His father would be disappointed if he did anything else. "I won't let him hurt you."

She wiped her tears away, then came to him, her arms outstretched.

Blaise pushed her away. "I mean it, Danielle. We're done." He tried to break up with her so many times, but she never accepted the end of their relationship. He wasn't going to let it happen again. She might still live there, but that didn't mean they were still together. Initially, he stayed in the relationship because it was convenient. If he was going to live with her, he may as well be getting sex out of it. But his loathing had increased to a breaking point.

"But you love me."

"I thought I did, but I was wrong."

"Don't be cold." She stared at him, her blue eyes wide with tears.

"I'm not," he said. "I'm just being firm." He walked into the spare bedroom, then shut the door. When they were separated, he took a deep breath and ran his fingers through his hair. He wasn't sure how he got himself into that mess. Somehow he got her pregnant and their relationship became serious. Then her ex stalked her, beat her, and even after that, he tried to come after her again. His baby's life was on the line and he did what he had to do to protect it. But now he still had to protect Danielle. He hated her, couldn't stand her, but he couldn't let her get hurt. It was important that they kept up the charade. Only his closest friends knew Danielle was there, and in order to protect her, Blaise had to pretend they were still together. If Evan knew there was no love between them, he would take advantage of that immediately. But if Evan did figure it out, Blaise had no problem ripping his head off if he came to the house. He stripped his clothes away, then got into bed.

He stared at the ceiling for a long time, thinking about the memories of his past. Something was missing in his life. Something wasn't right. Eventually, his lids grew heavy. He closed his eyes and fell into a light sleep. When he felt the covers pull away and a warm mouth press against his groin, his eyes snapped open.

"Danielle, stop it!" He pulled her off of him by the arm.

She wiped her mouth and gave him a frightened expression.

"Get out of my room."

"But—"

"Giving me a blowjob isn't going to keep me around. If you really wanted to please me, you wouldn't do it just when I'm upset with you. Now get out."

"Blaise—"

"Get out of my room or I'll kick you out of my house. I don't care if Evan finds you."

She left the bedroom and slammed the door closed. Blaise locked the handle, then returned to bed, trying to ignore the headache that was forming behind his eyes.
Chapter Five

Blaise woke up early the next morning and attended to his fields. They were planting the cotton seeds and it required a lot of work. His workers pulled the machines out of the warehouse and started the drill.

He met with the biologist and watched him examine the soil. "It's a little low on nitrogen," he said, running a test from equipment in his briefcase.

"Should I spread more manure?" Blaise asked.

"You need something stronger."

"So the expensive stuff?" Blaise asked.

The biologist nodded. "If you want the best cotton, you need the best supplies."

Blaise sighed in annoyance. Farming wasn't his expertise. He helped his father every planting season but he never enjoyed it. He only did it to help. And now that his father was gone, it was his responsibility to keep the legacy going. If it was important to his father, it was important to him. His dreams could wait. "I'll order it."

"You need to get it into the soil soon."

"Thank you for your time, professor."

"Of course." The man grabbed his belongings, then left the property.

Blaise pulled out his phone and made a few calls. The expensive stuff would be there in a few hours.

"Baby!"

Blaise turned toward the porch of the house.

Danielle was smiling at him. "Are you hungry for breakfast?"

He glared at her.

She kept a straight face. "Come on. I cooked for you."

Blaise knew she was playing nice in the hope he wouldn't leave her. "Give it to the dogs." He got into his truck without looking at her. He had his backpack on the seat as he drove to campus.

When he arrived for his class, he sat in the front row with his computer on the desk. He only had time to take one class a semester and he took it very seriously. Since he wasn't weighed down by other courses, there was no reason he shouldn't get an A. It was an economics class so he was interested most of the time. A girl next to him kept glancing his way but he ignored her. He already had one girl in his life he couldn't get rid of. He didn't need another one.

After his class was finished, he drove to Rob's Bar and Grill and sat in a booth. Ray joined him a minute later, looking equally tried.

"What are you doing in town?" Ray asked.

Blaise hadn't told anyone about the classes he was taking. If it got out, people would assume he was selling the business. The vultures would descend. "I had to get manure for the fields."

"The nitrogen is bad?" Ray drank from his beer, then glanced at the TV.

"It's always bad," Blaise said. "It's just really bad this year."

"Perhaps your renowned cotton isn't going to last."

"My family has tilled that earth for generations. I'll make sure the quality continues."

"Dude, you are so lucky you have the family business. I'm going to school and I have no idea what to do with my life. I wanted to be a doctor but now I'm thinking about being a professor. I just don't know."

Blaise rubbed his fingers against the glass of his beer. "That's how it should be," he said quietly.

"What are you talking about?" Ray asked. "You have that sweet country house and a beautiful woman that lives with you."

"And I can't get rid of her," Blaise snapped.

Ray laughed. "She's driving you crazy?"

That was an understatement. Ray was one of the few friends that knew he lived with Danielle. She didn't want anyone to know about the man hunting her. Blaise promised he wouldn't say a word about Evan and he never has. But, unfortunately, he couldn't think of any other excuse for why she would live with him. So he had to act like they were still together. "We have our problems sometimes."

"Throw her out on her ass," Ray said. "She isn't your problem."

Blaise sighed. "I can't do that."

"Why not?"

"She has nowhere to go. I can't just abandon her."

"Tell her to get a job," Ray said.

"I did."

"Be firm," Ray said. "So, when did it die?"

"What?"

"The love or whatever."

"It never began," Blaise hissed. "I only became serious with her when I thought she was pregnant. But that didn't work out."

"It sounds like a blessing."

Blaise wouldn't say that. Danielle had a miscarriage and lost the baby after she was three months pregnant. He didn't love Danielle, but he was depressed that his child had suffered. It still made him upset.

Ray drank from his beer. "Do you think she was ever really pregnant?"

Blaise eyed him. "What?"

"Do you think she lied so you wouldn't leave her?"

Danielle had done and said a lot of horrible things, but Blaise couldn't imagine her stooping that low. "I don't think so."

"I don't know..."

"Danielle wouldn't lie about something like that."

"Did you ever see any tests from the doctor's office? Any sonograms?"

"No, I always had something to do for the property. But I know she went."

Ray didn't look convinced. "I would call the doctor's office and find out the truth."

"I wouldn't invade her privacy like that. And we aren't married, so I wouldn't be able to find out anyway."

"I'm sure you could offer something..."

Blaise drank from his beer. "Let's drop it."

"Okay..." Ray tapped the wood of the table with his fingers. "Are you going to the cornfield party this weekend?"

Blaise shrugged. "I don't know. To be honest, I don't really care."

"Seriously, I feel like you're an old person. You never want to go out or do anything."

Blaise laughed. "It seems that way, doesn't it? I guess the property just takes a lot of my time. Maybe you shouldn't be envious after all."

"Too late," Ray said. "I don't know exactly how much money you make, but I know you make bank."

Blaise drank from his beer and averted his gaze. He never told anyone how much he made. People were always weird when it came to fortunes.

"Is your uncle still after it?"

He sighed. "He'll never give up."

Ray rolled his eyes. "The will clearly said you were the recipient of the company. How can you argue with that?"

Blaise shrugged. "Technically, he's next of kin. He thinks he has a good case. My great-grandparents were the ones who started it, so he's right that it should belong to him."

"Too bad your dad was older," Ray said with a smile.

"I wouldn't mind just giving it to him." The words flew out of his mouth before he could stop them.

"What do you mean?"

"Nothing," Blaise said.

"Then why haven't you?"

"I don't think he would take care of the company. He would run it into the ground. I can't let my family's legacy turn to shit. He's a horrible entrepreneur. He would inflate the prices because he's greedy, then dilute the quality to save money. I know how he is."

"Why don't you sell it?"

"I can't do that either."

"You could give it to a friend." Ray winked.

"You don't know the first thing about cotton," Blaise said with a smile.

"I could get a picture book and figure it out."

Blaise laughed. "I can't do that either. I'm stuck with it."

"I don't think "stuck" is the right word. You should be grateful you have something so lucrative."

Blaise had a different opinion, but he kept it to himself.
Chapter Six

When Alex went to class the next day, she felt anxious. She just graduated from college, but she was a student again. She sat in the back row and opened her laptop, typing all her notes on the computer. She didn't have any classes with her friends, which she was sad about. It would be nice to see a familiar face.

"Are you new?"

She turned to the guy sitting next to her. He had brown hair with a red tint to it. When he smiled, two dimples appeared in his cheeks. And his eyes were blue and bright, easily noticeable. "I really stick out, don't I?"

He laughed. "A little." He extended his hand. "I'm Gabe."

She shook it. "Alexandra."

He nodded. "So, where are you from?"

"New York."

"Wow. Do they really have amazing pizza there?"

She smiled. "I don't know. I haven't tried any here to compare."

"Well, I'll have to take you out sometime."

Alexandra looked away.

"Are you an English major?" Gabe asked.

"Yeah."

"And what do you want to do with that?"

She shrugged. "Be a writer. What's your major?"

"History," he said. "And I want to be a teacher."

"That sounds nice."

He grabbed his notebook and flipped through the pages. "We should get lunch after class."

Alexandra didn't know what to say. The last thing she wanted was to date anyone. Luckily, the professor addressed the class, letting her sink back into her chair without responding. She took her notes on the computer and didn't look at Gabe. She didn't want to be rude, but there was no way to reject an offer without being dismissive. She hoped he would just forget about it.

When the class was over, she grabbed her belongings and bolted out of the classroom. When she thought she had escaped, she ran into Lisa.

"Hey, how's your first day of school?"

Alexandra looked over her shoulder, seeing Gabe come toward her. "Uh, it was good. I gotta run."

"Wait. When's your next class?"

Gabe approached them and hugged Lisa. "How's your first class?"

"A major bore," she said as she rolled her eyes.

Alexandra stiffened when she realized they were friends.

"Have you met Alex?" Lisa asked.

"Yeah," Gabe said with a smile. "We have English together. We're just about to get lunch."

"Let's go," Lisa said. "I'm starving."

Now that Lisa was coming, Alexandra didn't feel so awkward. They left the campus and went to a restaurant across the street. Hannah met them a few minutes later. When Gabe sat next to Alexandra in the booth, she was grateful she wouldn't have to look at him across the table.

Gabe turned to her. "So, what's in Georgia?"

She smiled. "I came here for school."

"It must be a culture shock compared to New York."

"Well, I grew up in Atlanta, so it isn't that shocking."

"Oh," Gabe said. "I'm glad you ended up here."

"So, what's New York like?" Lisa asked.

Alexandra shrugged. "Like any other big city. The people there are different. They're blunt about their desires and don't beat around the bush like they do here, gossiping behind your back. It's a great place to get sushi at 3:00 a.m., and a hooker first thing in the morning."

Gabe laughed. "And how would you know?"

Alexandra smiled. "I know my way around." She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. "The subway has the most interesting people. After being used to wide open spaces, I felt claustrophobic at first. The clubs are really expensive to get into, even if you're a girl. My favorite time of year is the summer. It's humid and hot, just like it is here, but the nightlife is so different."

Gabe stared at her. "If you love it so much, why did you leave?"

She was quiet for a moment. "I needed to go to school." She couldn't think of a better reason.

"I would love to go there someday," Hannah said. "I've never left Georgia."

"We went to Miami for spring break," Lisa said.

"Oh, yeah," Hannah said. "But that doesn't count."

"We could go together sometime and I'll show you around," Alexandra offered.

"That would be cool," Gabe said.

"Have you ever been mugged?" Hannah asked. "I hear people get mugged a lot."

"Stupid people who walk down dark alleys at 2:00 a.m.," Alexandra said.

"So you've never been mugged?" Lisa asked.

"Well, I have, but it wasn't a big deal," Alexandra said.

"What do you mean it wasn't a big deal?" Gabe asked with a laugh.

"When he took my purse, I kicked him and screamed, making him drop my bag as he ran away. So nothing really happened."

"You actually fought a mugger?" Lisa asked.

"Obviously," Alexandra said. "I wasn't going to let some thief take my stuff."

Gabe nodded. "That's badass."

Alexandra averted her gaze, saying nothing.

They ordered their food and ate their meal together. Gabe and Lisa talked about the cornfield party like it was the social highlight of the year. Alexandra didn't care either way. Personally, she would rather stay home and read a book, but she didn't have much choice.

When lunch was over, they went back to class. At the end of the day, Alexandra called the hospital to check on her application, but they said it was still in review. She hoped to get the job. That way she could buy her own car and not rely on other people for rides.

"Hey, can I take you home?"

Alexandra saw Gabe approach her. "Actually, Lisa is giving me a ride."

"She told me," he said. "But she said she needed to run an errand. I offered to help her out."

Alexandra felt cornered. "Oh, okay."

"Don't get too excited," he said with a smile.

She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. "I'm sorry. I really appreciate all your kindness. It's nice to have friends."

"It's okay. I can tell you're shy." He winked at her. "You want to get dinner first?"

Alexandra felt nervous. She didn't want to piss off the only friends she had left, but she had to be honest. If she wasn't, she would give him the wrong idea. "Gabe, I'm not dating right now."

"Okay..."

"I'm sorry," she said. "You seem like a nice guy."

He came closer to her, then put his hands in his pockets. "I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable. I'm sorry."

"No, I just want to be honest."

"I'm sorry. I just think you're really cute. I couldn't pass up a shot."

She looked away.

"Now let me take you home." He opened the passenger door and helped her get inside.

They drove down the road in silence. It was tense for a few minutes.

"So why aren't you dating right now?" he asked.

She looked out the window. "I'm just not in the right place."

He nodded. "That's code for a bad breakup."

She smiled. "You're good."

"Well, I really hope you and I can be friends. I don't want this awkward encounter to make you feel weird around me."

"No, we're fine."

"Cool," he said. "But I have to ask. Would you consider dating me if you weren't in the wrong place?"

She shifted her weight. "I don't know..."

"I'm sorry I asked." He turned on the radio and they listened to the music. "I don't like chick singers very much, but I like Carrie Underwood."

"She has a beautiful voice."

"She's cute too," he said with a wink.

"Definitely."

He looked at her. "You're really cool, Alex."

"Thanks. You are too."

He drove to her house and parked his car. The dogs immediately started growling. "I would walk you to the door but they might eat me."

Alexandra laughed. "Thank you for the ride."

"Anytime."

"Good night."

"Good night," he said. "And we're cool, right?"

"Yes, we're cool."

"Excellent."

When Alexandra walked inside, her aunt was nowhere to be seen. There wasn't a note on the refrigerator and there wasn't any dinner saved. She walked down the hallway but saw the bedroom door open. She wasn't home.

Alexandra took out her laptop and got to work on her homework. The sun disappeared behind the horizon until it was pitch black. As the night wore on, she became more worried. Her aunt still hadn't called.

When the lights from Martha's truck finally shined through the window, Alexandra breathed a sigh of relief, knowing she was just overreacting. A few minutes later, the front door opened.

Martha's hand was pressed to her lower back and she walked with a hunch. Her face was in a grimace, indicating she was in pain.

"Aunt Martha, what's wrong?" Alexandra rose from the chair and helped her walk forward.

"I really hurt my back today," she said through her heavy breathing. "I was at the hospital."

"Why didn't you call me?" Alexandra demanded.

"It's nothing serious," she said. "It happens all the time."

"Then you shouldn't be working in the fields."

"I can't afford to have someone else do it."

"I'll do it."

"Absolutely not," Martha said. "I won't suck you into this."

Alexandra guided her to the bedroom. "Then what are you going to do?"

She sighed. "I may have to sell it."

Alexandra helped her lay on the bed. She pulled her shoes off and helped her get settled. "I can take care of the fields tomorrow. I think I know how."

"I have someone coming," she said with a tired voice. "Don't worry about it."

"I thought you couldn't afford help?"

"He's a family friend."

"Oh," Alexandra said. "Well, I'm glad you have someone. I can still help before I go to school."

"You need to pursue what you came here to do, not take care of the fields, Alex."

"But family comes first, Aunt Martha."

She smiled. "Just don't worry about it, dear."

Alexandra was going to help no matter what. "Would you like some dinner? I can make something."

"I'm not hungry," Martha whispered. "Just tired."

"Okay," she said as she patted her on the leg. "Call me if you need anything. I'm just down the hall."

"I know, kid."

Alexandra left the bedroom, then shut the door behind her. She got her clothes and boots ready for the next morning. She wasn't looking forward to getting up at the crack of dawn to work in the field before she went to school, but her aunt needed her. Alexandra knew her aunt would do anything for her, and she would do the same.
Chapter Seven

When the alarm clock went off, Alex groaned. She wanted to hit the snooze button but her determination outweighed her laziness. Finally, she rose out of bed and washed her face, getting the sleep out of her eyes. She quickly braided her hair and placed it over one shoulder before she put on a baseball cap. She knew she looked hideous but she didn't care. She was doing yard work, not a photo shoot.

A truck was parked outside, and an extra dog was sitting with the Rottweilers. It was a large German Shepherd. He was playing in the dirt with the other dogs, like they already knew each other.

Alexandra walked onto the field and saw a man in the distance, working the irrigation pump at the end of the line. The sun obscured her sight so she had to look down, letting her baseball cap protect her face as she walked over.

When she got closer, she looked up. He was staring at her, bright blue eyes shining intensely. He had a chiseled jaw and some stubble on his chin like he hadn't shaved in a few days. His hair was dark like hers and slightly curly.

Alexandra had to look up to get an entire view of him because he was much taller than she was. His wide shoulders were tight with muscles. Even his forearms were toned with lines of muscle and veins. Every inch of him looked chiseled, perfectly sculpted. Alexandra didn't need to see him shirtless to know how he looked underneath.

She wasn't sure what to expect when she walked onto the field, but it definitely wasn't him. She opened her mouth to say something but she couldn't think of anything. She was completely at a loss for words. Now she felt stupid for coming outside looking like a slob.

He stared at her for a long time, his eyes prying into the shadows of her hat. "I hate to be rude, but who are you?"

"Oh," she said. "I'm Alexandra." She regained her composure so she wouldn't look like a total idiot.

"I'm Blaise." He extended his hand.

Alexandra stared at it for a moment before she took it. "It's nice to meet you."

"Are you Martha's niece?"

"Yes."

"She mentioned you, but I wasn't expecting you to join me."

A strand of her hair came loose so she tucked it behind her ear. "I want to help. You shouldn't have to do this by yourself."

He smiled. "I can handle it. I've been doing it for a long time."

"Thank you so much for helping my aunt. I would do this on my own, but I don't know how everything works just yet."

"I can teach you, if you'd like."

"I would love that."

He stared at her for a long time. "Where are you from?"

Alexandra flinched at the heat of his stare. She normally felt calm under pressure, but he intimidated her in a profound way. She was suddenly aware of her body, how she looked, what she was doing, the racing speed of her heart. "New York," she said quietly.

"That's a long way off," he said.

"Yeah..."

He turned to the pump. "Do you know how to use this?"

She nodded.

He turned the dial and let the first pump flood the rows. "When are you planting?"

"Uh, I'm not sure."

"You should do it soon. My fields are behind schedule because of the soil content. There's not enough nitrogen."

"What do you need nitrogen for?" she asked.

"So you don't know anything about farming?" he said with a laugh.

"I never said I was an expert."

"It's okay," he said. "I can show you everything you need to know."

She watched him flood the soil with water. He moved to the different pumps until just the right amount of water filled each row of soil. They spent hours tending to the field, tilling the earth when the soil level wasn't right. A few weeds grew where they shouldn't, so they pulled them out with their bare hands.

Alexandra watched his every move, more interested in his physique than what he was doing with it. Through his shirt, she could see the outline of muscles in his shoulders. Everything was prominent and defined. Even though he was working his body, he seemed calm and relaxed, like their activities weren't exhausting. Alexandra was sweating like she never had before. When they were done, they walked back to the house.

"Thank you," she said again. "I really appreciate your help."

He crossed his arms over his chest and looked at her. "I would do anything for Martha. She knows that."

"How do you know her?"

He averted his gaze. "She's just a family friend."

Alex nodded. "That was still really nice of you. If I had to do this alone, I would probably destroy everything."

He chuckled. "You aren't that bad, Alexandra."

"Everyone calls me Alex."

"I'm going to call you Alexandra."

"Oh." No one had ever said that to her.

"It's too beautiful of a name not to be used." He put his hands in his pockets then watched the dogs. "Kane hates leaving his two best friends."

Alexandra stared at the dogs. They were sitting on the porch in a pile, their tongues hanging out. "They do look like a happy family."

The front door opened and Aunt Martha looked at them. "Come in for breakfast."

"Don't worry about it," Blaise said immediately. "You should rest."

"I'm not paralyzed," she said with a laugh. "Now get in here."

Blaise glanced at Alexandra, then he walked inside. Alexandra followed behind him. Her eyes moved to his ass, but then she averted her gaze, knowing it was completely inappropriate.

Martha hugged him tightly as soon as he walked inside. "Thank you so much."

He patted her back gently, trying not to hurt her. "You're welcome. I'm always here if you need me."

She pulled away. "I already ate but there's plenty left over." She set a platter on the table then left the room.

Alexandra raised an eyebrow, confused. She walked to the sink and washed her hands after Blaise then took a seat at the kitchen table. "She's a really good cook." She didn't know what else to say and she felt the need to talk.

"I know," he said as he piled French toast onto his plate. "It's what she pays me in. I don't get home-cooked meals very often."

Alex poured a large pool of syrup onto her pancakes. It leaked across the plate, spreading everywhere.

Blaise eyed it. "You like syrup?"

"Oh." Alexandra put down the bottle. "I guess."

"You guess?" He laughed. "Martha is going to run out quick."

She smiled. "I guess I have a sweet tooth."

Blaise cut into his French toast and ate quietly.

Alexandra sat across from him, catching glances of him whenever the opportunity arose. His dark hair was messy but still looked sexy at the same time. His skin was slightly tan from being in the sun all the time, but he wasn't extremely dark. His light-colored eyes contrasted against his dark hair, making a perfect picture.

In New York, Alexandra saw models all the time. They were easy to pick out on the street. But they were nothing compared to this guy. She wondered what a beautiful man like Blaise was doing in Georgia. He seemed too perfect for a small town. He ate his food with grace, not shoveling it into his mouth like a typical man. When he smiled, his eyes naturally lit up at the same time. There were so many details she noticed in the hours she'd spent with him. It was hard not to notice his features.

"Alexandra, do you like living in Georgia?"

"You say my name a lot."

He stared at her. "It's your name, right?"

She said nothing.

"It's polite to address someone by their name."

She smiled. "Blaise, yes, I like living here."

He chuckled. "There are a lot of sights to see if you know where to look. How long are you staying?"

"Permanently." The words flew from her mouth. Now that she finally said them, she knew it was true. She was never going back.

He nodded. "I guess we'll be seeing a lot more of each other."

She hoped they would. "I'm surprised you didn't ask why I moved here."

He finished his plate then pushed it away. "That's a personal question."

She was surprised by the response.

"And you probably get that question from every person you meet."

"It gets a little old," she said with a smile.

"Your aunt is lucky to have you here to help."

"And we're both lucky we have you."

He smiled. "I think your aunt should sell the property and get a house in the suburbs. I would offer to buy it but I already have plenty of land. I don't need any more."

Alex raised an eyebrow. "You own land?"

He nodded. "Cunnings Cotton. My family has owned it for a long time."

"Oh. So you're a bit of an expert."

"You could say that."

"You think she should sell it?" Alexandra asked. "I think the same thing. She's hurt her back too many times."

"When I brought it up, she said she couldn't leave. Her husband tilled the soil every day of their marriage. She said she couldn't give it up. It's all she has left."

Alexandra felt her heart tug at the revelation. She had no idea what it was like to lose a spouse, the person you spent almost all your time with. It was obviously devastating, but her aunt put on such a strong façade that it was easy to forget about her inner pain. "I completely understand."

"But it still isn't good for her."

Alexandra sighed. "I don't think I could ever convince her otherwise."

Blaise leaned back in his chair and stared. The look he gave her was heated and frightening at the same time. His bright eyes cut through the surface of her skin, making her feel vulnerable and exposed. She was innately intimidated by him, but also very comfortable. And she was very attracted to him. It was the first time she felt that way since she first spotted Paul.

Blaise grabbed his plate and glass and took them to the sink. "Tell your aunt I said thank you for breakfast." He cleaned his dishes and stacked them.

"Of course."

He dried his hands then walked toward the door. "It was nice meeting you."

"Will you be here tomorrow?"

"I'll be here every day until your aunt is well again."

She stared at him. "But don't you have your own fields to tend to?"

"She's family. And family comes first."
Chapter Eight

Alexandra tried to concentrate on her classes but she kept thinking about Blaise. Something about him unnerved her, consumed her thoughts. He was easy to talk to. Their conversations flowed like a wild river. Rocks and debris didn't restrict it. It was free.

When she was in her advanced composition class, Gabe kept glancing at her every few seconds. She didn't pay attention to him and kept her gaze glued to the board. After he asked her out, it was awkward, but she tried to forget about it. When she said no, he backed off, which is more than what most guys would do.

After the class was finished, they walked to the library. Alexandra had a break before the rest of her classes and she wanted to go somewhere quiet. When they sat down, Gabe looked at her.

"You're still uncomfortable around me."

She flinched at his words. "I'm just—shy."

He sighed. "I have a lot of friends that are girls—platonic friends. I would really love it if you could be another."

She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. "It's not you, Gabe. I'm just—on my guard all the time."

He nodded. "What happened with this ex of yours?"

Alexandra didn't open up to anyone about this. All of her friends were Paul's friends. But she still felt weird discussing it. "He didn't love me the way I loved him, basically."

Gabe stared at her but didn't comment.

"We had a few problems then he cheated on me. When we broke up, he seemed really contrite about it."

"Maybe he was," he said. "Sometimes you realize how much you need something only when you lose it."

Alexandra shrugged. "Possibly."

"How long were you two together?"

"A few years."

"Where did you meet?"

"In college."

His eyes narrowed. "So you aren't a freshman?"

Alexandra felt cornered. "No."

"Did you transfer?"

"Uh, kinda..."

Gabe smiled. "I think I'm missing something here."

Alexandra twisted a strand of hair in her fingertips. It was soft and silky, soothing her. She always touched her hair when she was nervous. She hoped no one else noticed. "I already graduated."

His eyes widened. "What? How old are you?"

"Twenty-two."

"What did you get your degree in?"

"Nursing," she said simply.

He leaned back in his chair with confusion in his eyes. "So why are you getting a degree in English, something that will probably never be lucrative?"

Now they were in bad territory. "I—I don't want to talk about it." She averted her gaze and opened the textbook, flipping to a random page.

Gabe continued to stare at her. "I think there's more to you than what's on the surface. As your friend, I can't deny my curiosity. I wonder what demons you're leaving behind. But I also understand that you came to a new place to start over, make a new life. And I'll respect that." He opened his textbook then highlighted a sentence, dropping the subject.

Alexandra looked up at him, surprised she was let off the hook so easily. "Can I ask you a personal question?"

He didn't pull his gaze away from the text. "I'm an open book, Alex. I don't keep secrets from my friends."

Alexandra was surprised by how quickly she was accepted by the three friends she made. "You guys are the nicest people I've ever met," she blurted.

He smiled. "Well, Martha is close with Lisa and Hannah's moms, so naturally, they loved you immediately. And I'm friends with whoever my friends are friends with. Your aunt was your ticket."

"My aunt is awesome. I'm just surprised she's so revered by the town."

He finally looked at her. "I'm starting to think you don't know your aunt very well."

"What do you mean?" she asked.

He closed his book. "Savannah has become more of a tourist location every year. The farmland is being stripped for hotels, restaurants, casinos, anything but plots of land. When the state came to Martha and offered to buy her land, and for a huge price by the way, she said no. No one would have judged her for being a sellout, but she didn't give in. She still works the fields even though she's fifty. She has our respect."

"Wow." Alexandra looked across the library, not staring at anything in particular. "She's a badass."

Gabe chuckled. "You could say that." He rested his elbows on the table. "Since you're from Atlanta, why did you come to Savannah instead?"

Alexandra fidgeted with her hands.

"Oh, sorry," Gabe said immediately. "The question was innocent, I swear."

She breathed a sigh of relief.

"Maybe you would feel more comfortable if you asked me a personal question."

"I feel bad asking for information without giving any in return."

"Don't," he said. "I understand."

"Well, what's your story? Did you have a bad breakup?"

He sighed. "In fact, yes, I did. She ripped my heart out."

Alexandra saw the pain around his eyes. The lines around his mouth were tight, like he was grimacing. "I'm sorry."

"It's okay. It's been a while now." He cleared his throat. "She was my high school girlfriend and my first. I thought she was the one. The only reason I went to college was so I could marry her and support her. She had other plans..."

"That doesn't sound good," Alex whispered.

"She was more interested in other men. Let's put it that way."

Automatically, Alexandra placed her hand on top of his. "I'm sorry, Gabe. But she's stupid. You're obviously a great guy."

He smiled at her. "That's what I've been saying." He pulled his hand away. "So, what do you do for fun?"

She shrugged. "I read a lot."

"Sounds fascinating." He laughed.

"I know I'm lame."

"I didn't say that," he said quickly. "But do you have any hobbies?"

"Not really," she said. "Like I said, I'm pretty boring."

"You should try running. It will help clear your head. And the pastures are beautiful."

"Well, I wake up at five every day to help in the fields. I couldn't imagine running too."

"You help your aunt?" he asked in surprise.

"She threw out her back so she's struggling."

"Oh," Gabe said. "I'm sorry about that. Let me know if you need anything."

"Thanks." Alex smiled and opened her laptop to check her email. When she saw a message from the hospital, she clicked on it immediately. When she read through the lines, she realized she had been selected for the position. "Gabe, can I borrow your phone?"

He raised an eyebrow. "You don't have one?"

"Uh, it's a long story." Actually, it wasn't that complicated, but she didn't want to discuss it.

He took his out of his pocket. "Knock yourself out."

She dialed the number. On the third ring, a woman answered. "Dina from ER."

"I'm calling back about a position I was selected for. I'm Alexandra Wade."

"Oh, yes," she said. "I was surprised to see that you were applying for the position with your credentials."

Alexandra was mute, letting the silence drag on. "I'm just looking for something less stressful."

"Well, we shall see you on Wednesdays, then."

"What?" Alexandra blurted.

"Your shift is on Wednesday."

Alexandra was confused. "I assumed it was a full-time position."

"Actually, it's per diem. You work four times a month." She paused for a moment. "Did you still want it, Ms. Wade?"

Alexandra needed a full-time job so she could get her own place, but a part-time job was better than no job at the moment. "Of course."

"Do you have scrubs?"

"Yes, I have scrubs."

"I'll see you then, Ms. Wade."

"Thank you." Alexandra hung up then handed over the phone.

Gabe stared at her. "Did you just get a job?"

She sighed. "It's part time. I thought it was full time."

"Are you working as a nurse? What else would you need scrubs for?"

"Uh, no. It's a tech position."

Gabe nodded but he still looked confused. "Okay..."

"I need to find a full-time job so I can move out of my aunt's place. I feel like I'm eating all her food."

He smiled. "I'm sure she likes having you."

"I still dropped in with no announcement. I feel totally guilty."

"We all fall down and need someone to help us back on our feet. There's no reason to be ashamed."

She smiled. "Thanks."

He looked at the time. "I should get to class. We are going to Rob's Bar and Grill later if you want to come."

"Well, Lisa is my ride so I don't have much of a choice."

Gabe laughed. "I'll see you then, Alex."
Chapter Nine

Alexandra ran into Hannah when her last class was over. "Hey." She tucked her hair behind her ear then held the strap of her purse.

Hannah looked at her legs. "I love your shorts. They make you look so tan."

Alexandra laughed. "It's because they're white. Believe me, I'm pretty pale."

"Where do you shop?" she asked. "You always have cute clothes."

"Well, I got most of my stuff in New York. I just went to the sales."

"I'm a thrifty shopper too," Hannah said. "The cheaper, the better. Especially since I go through clothes so quickly."

"So, how are your classes?"

She shrugged. "They are pretty easy. But my exercise physiology course is a little difficult. I have to actually read the book." She rolled her eyes "Talk about blah."

Alexandra chuckled.

"And don't get me started on physics...kill me now."

"I didn't care for it much either. When I got a B, I was ecstatic."

"When did you take physics?" She eyed her suspiciously.

"Uh..." Alexandra felt stupid for blurting that out. But Gabe would probably tell them she already had a degree in nursing. "I took it in New York."

"For what?"

"I just had to take it..." Hannah was about to ask another question when Alexandra changed the subject. "Seen any cute guys?"

Her eyes widened. "A few...but I still haven't decided which one I want. I'll get a better look at the cornfield party."

"Do a lot of people go to it?"

"Pretty much every college student."

They left the campus and walked down the street, heading to downtown Savannah. The sidewalk was crammed with people like it usually was. When they walked inside the restaurant, people were hanging out at tables, drinking beer and watching TV. Everyone looked like they were Alexandra's age, college students who finished class for the day.

Gabe and Lisa were already sitting in a booth.

"How was class?" Lisa asked when they sat down.

"Boring," Hannah said. "But Alex just told me she already took physics."

Gabe said nothing, holding his beer in his hand.

Alexandra felt awkward. "It was a long time ago..."

Lisa looked at her. "You must be super smart."

Gabe leaned forward. "Alex got a job today."

Alexandra smiled at him, glad he changed the subject.

"Doing what?" Lisa asked.

"I'm a tech at a hospital," Alexandra answered.

"Cool," Hannah said.

"Yeah." Alexandra stood up. "I'm going to get something at the bar."

"Bring me a Miller Light," Hannah said.

"Okay," Alexandra said over her shoulder. When she walked toward the front, she spotted someone familiar. The curve of his shoulders and the dark hair caught her eye. She couldn't see his face, but she was certain it was Blaise. She took a seat at the bar then glanced at the booth.

At the same moment, Blaise scanned the room and locked his gaze with hers. A smile appeared on his face, showing his perfect teeth. His eyes lit up simultaneously. Alexandra tried to look away but she couldn't. Her gaze was transfixed.

Blaise was sitting with two guys in a booth, and he moved out of the seat and walked toward her. Alexandra immediately felt her heart race as he approached her. Her palms became sweaty, and all logical thought disappeared. She was suddenly aware of her hands. She touched her hair then her neck, unsure what to do.

He put his hand on the bar and looked at her, his smile still evident. "Alexandra."

"Blaise." A smile stretched her lips. When she heard his voice, her anxiety diminished.

"Do you mind?" He nodded to the empty seat next to her.

"No."

He sat down then turned to her. "What brings you here?"

"My friends and I came by after class."

"You have friends?"

"Why is that surprising?"

"You find company quick."

"That's because I'm pleasant company," she said.

"That's debatable," he teased.

She narrowed her eyes at him. "I didn't have to help you this morning."

"And it would have been appreciated if you didn't. You destroy everything, remember?" His smile was wider than it was a second before.

"You have a point."

"I'm just teasing. I prefer the pleasant company."

The bartender placed two drinks on the counter.

Blaise eyed them. "Thirsty?"

"This one is for my friend." She nodded to them at the table. They weren't paying attention to her, lost in their conversation.

Blaise studied them. "Is it for Gabe?" His eyes weren't as bright as they were a moment before. Alexandra noticed the sudden change.

"For Hannah, actually."

He nodded.

"You know them?"

He chuckled. "Everyone knows everyone around here."

"I'm starting to realize that."

Blaise nodded to the bartender and ordered a beer. He drank half of it with a single gulp.

"Now look who's thirsty," she teased.

"Beer is my water."

"That doesn't sound healthy."

His fingers wrapped around the cool glass. Alexandra noticed how large his hands were. A single one could completely cover her stomach. If he grabbed her by the ribs, he could crush her. She studied the calluses on his fingers, noting the hard patches of skin. It was obvious he used his hands every day.

"So, how were your classes today?" he asked.

She shrugged. "They were okay."

"What's your major?"

"English."

"Are you a writer?" He drank from his glass while he studied her face.

"No."

"Do you want to be a teacher?"

She glared at him. "There are other things you can do with an English degree besides writing and teaching."

He smiled. "Like what?"

"Research."

Blaise rolled his eyes. "Name one more."

She drank from her glass, taking a longer drink than normal.

"That's what I thought," he said with a smile.

"Well, not all of us inherit lucrative businesses."

"You say that like it's a blessing."

"Isn't it?" she asked.

He turned his gaze away. "I can't say that I'm not grateful, but it's not as glamorous as everyone thinks."

Alexandra studied him for a moment, noting the change in his eyes. They seemed darker, more ominous. "Why don't you like it?"

He played with the coaster on the table. "Well, everyone is waiting for me to mess up. I'm the youngest cotton grower in the state. There's more pressure. I have to delegate to other people, hire and fire them. And I have to watch my money, making sure no one is taking more than they should. I'm always looking over my shoulder, trying to protect my back because no one else is watching it. It's difficult having something everyone else wants."

She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. "It sounds like you don't have any passion for it."

"I can't say that I do."

"Then why do you do it, Blaise?"

"It's a long story..."

"I don't have anywhere to be."

He smiled. "My parents passed away, leaving me and my brother as the heirs of the fields. My brother is lazy and doesn't do anything for the business. He literally takes his paycheck and that's it. My uncle is upset he didn't get it since he's the next of kin. I always have to deal with his taunts. And I've never wanted to be a farmer."

"What did you want to do?"

He shook his head, staring at the counter. "It's stupid."

"I doubt it."

Blaise drank from his glass again. "I wanted to be a lawyer."

"Why is that stupid?" She smiled at him, admiring the shyness behind that confident exterior.

"I have an empire in my hands. Why throw that away for more work and less pay?"

"Money isn't the most important thing in the world."

"I couldn't agree more. But family is."

"Now I'm not following," she said.

He sighed. "I'm not sure why I'm telling you this..."

She turned away, feeling like she had overstepped her boundary. "Life is too short to live for someone else. If you want to do something else with your life, you should just do it. Who cares what other people think?"

He looked at her. "You really believe that?"

"Of course I do."

"Well, it's not that simple." He watched the TV before he turned back to her. "So what's your plan in life?"

She cringed. "I don't even know what I'm eating for dinner."

He laughed. "Just tell me what you have planned so far."

"Get a job, move out, and finish school."

"That sounds like a good plan," he said.

Alexandra crossed her legs then uncrossed them, unsure what to do with herself.

"And what is your passion?"

"Uh...I don't know."

He nudged her gently. "Come on. I told you mine."

She smiled. "I've always wanted to help people."

"In what way?"

Alexandra thought to herself for a second. "In every way."

"Maybe you should go into healthcare instead."

She didn't have a response to that.

"Are you looking for writing jobs?"

"No," she said. "Actually, I found a job working as a tech in the hospital."

He nodded. "At least you could help people there."

"Yeah," she said. "But it's per diem."

"I have no idea what that means," he said.

"Basically, I work four days a month. It's not enough for me to move out. But I was desperate so I took it."

"I can give you a job."

She laughed loudly. "You want me to destroy your fields too?"

Blaise smiled. "I have a secretary position. You could handle all the finances, the bookkeeping, payroll, all that boring stuff."

"If I owned a business, I would do that myself so no one could screw me over."

"Good point," he said. "But I trust you, Alexandra."

"You don't even know me."

"I know enough. And if you're Martha's niece, I have a feeling you're pretty great."

"How do you know her?" she asked.

"Her husband and my dad were really good friends. They always gave each other advice about growing cotton. They were both killed by that drunk driver, along with my mom."

She turned to him, her eyes wide. "Oh..."

"Yeah..."

"I'm so sorry."

He nodded. "I'm sorry too."

Alexandra felt the glass she was holding, moving her fingertips across it.

"Since her husband isn't around, it's my duty to help her. She has no one else."

"Now she has me."

He smiled. "I'm glad she has someone. But you can't handle the fields on your own."

"I could if you showed me."

He stared at her for a long time. "I'm not going to ask why you came here, but I'm assuming it wasn't to become a cotton grower."

"Well, no. But my aunt needs me."

"It's not good on the body. I spend as much time working on my posture and limiting stress on my joints as I do actually working."

"Then it's good you're the one teaching me."

He leaned closer to her. "I really don't mind doing it. I hire people to work on my own fields. It's not like I do it every day."

"No, she's my family. I want to help her."

He sighed. "Okay."

"So...is that secretary position still available?"

"It's yours if you want it," he said with a smile. "And you can work whenever you want. As long as you get everything done, I don't care when you do it."

"That sounds too good to be true."

"It's perfect for a student," he said. "Now you can quit your tech job."

"Actually, I'm going to keep it."

"Why?" he asked.

"I can help people without worrying about killing them."

"Killing them?" He raised an eyebrow.

"Yeah, I don't have to push medications or do any procedures."

"Like a nurse?"

She swallowed the lump in her throat. "Yeah..."

He studied her face for a while. "I'll send you everything by email and you can start working."

"Thanks."

He nodded. "And I'll see you tomorrow morning."

She stared at him, eyeing the outline of his chest through his shirt. It was prominent and strong, unable to be hidden under his layer of clothing. His stomach was tight and flat, straight as a concrete wall. She looked into his eyes, seeing the beautiful color stand out. She'd seen guys with blue eyes before but his were different. They had an unusual shine to them, a brilliance that couldn't be compared to anything else. Her mouth suddenly became dry despite all the beer she drank. Her heart felt like it would give out from beating so fast. The tightness in her stomach left her winded. Blaise made her feel nervous and calm at the same time. She waited for him to ask her out, to take her to dinner or a movie. She thought she didn't want to be asked out by anyone, but she felt immediately drawn to Blaise like a fire in winter. She was excited to see him every morning, but she wanted to see him outside the workplace, something intimate and personal. Alexandra wanted to know more about him. She wanted to know everything. She waited for him to say something but he never did.

"It was nice seeing you." He left the bar and returned to his friends, sitting in the booth like nothing was different. She watched him for a moment, suddenly feeling cold and empty.
Chapter Ten

When Alexandra came home for dinner, she brought an ice pack and a heating pad for her aunt.

"Why do I need both?" Martha asked.

"The heat will increase blood flow and loosen the tight muscles around your back. The cold one will vasoconstrict your veins and decrease swelling and pain. You should only have them on for twenty minutes at a time for maximum effect."

Her aunt stared at her. "Well, at least you're putting that nursing degree to use."

Alexandra ignored the insult and put the food on the table.

"Wow. This looks really good," Martha said.

"Why are you so surprised?" Alexandra said as she took a bite of chicken.

"The first time you cooked, you set off all my smoke detectors."

Alexandra laughed. "I was twelve, okay?"

"It's impossible to burn popcorn. I don't know how you managed."

"Well, your microwave is so ancient, all the numbers were rubbed off. I couldn't tell what button I was pushing."

Martha smiled. "I'll give you that."

"Why don't you buy another? They are pretty cheap now."

"Mike bought it as an anniversary gift." She cut into her green beans.

Alexandra averted her gaze and ate her corn.

"So, you like working with Blaise?" Martha's eyes were downcast as she spoke.

Alexandra felt her heart rise in her throat at just the sound of his name. "He's a good guy. He knows what he's doing."

"I'm glad you like him. He's the son I never had."

She nodded. "He said he would keep teaching me so I can help you."

Martha finally looked at her. "I already said no. Alex, you didn't come out here to be a farm hand."

"No, but you need help."

"I don't want that for you. You clearly don't know what you're doing, and I'm not going to let you steer in this direction. Stay in school and focus on that."

Alexandra rolled her eyes. "I didn't say I was going to drop out and take over your business. I know this is just temporary."

"I appreciate your help. You're a really sweet girl. I just don't want you to get stuck."

"I'm not." The room fell silent as they ate. "I got a job at the hospital."

Martha breathed a sigh of relief. "So you're going back to nursing? Thank god."

"Uh, no. It's a tech job."

"They didn't have any nursing positions?"

"Well, yeah, but...I didn't want them."

Her aunt eyed her, giving her a stern look. "I've been very patient with you, Alex. Now will you tell me what's going on?"

"Nothing," she said quickly.

"Please don't disrespect me with a lie."

Alexandra looked down at her plate.

"Look at me."

She met her gaze.

"I'm worried."

"Don't be," Alex said gently. "I'm just choosing a different path."

"And what was wrong with the other path? Did something happen at work?"

"No."

"You only worked as a nurse for a year before you left the profession. Isn't that a little quick to throw in the towel?"

"Can we talk about something else?" she said quickly.

Martha shook her head then finished her dinner.

"Blaise told me what happened to his parents."

"It was very sad. I'm glad he became an outstanding young man."

"It seems like he doesn't care for the business much."

"Well, he's the biggest cotton manufacturer in the south. I'm sure it's stressful, but it's nothing he can't handle."

Alexandra looked at her aunt. "You have a lot of respect for him."

"More than words can say."

She finished her meal then pushed it away.

"Do you like Lisa and Hannah?"

"They're great," Alex said simply.

"I'm glad you made some friends."

Alexandra smiled. "I'm not totally unpleasant."

"But you're shy. If I didn't point a flashlight at you, you would blend with the shadows."

She carried her plate and washed it in the sink. After she dried it, she cleaned up the kitchen, making sure it was as spotless as Martha left it.

"You seemed to show up here at the right time," Martha said. "Having you around has made everything easier on me."

"Blaise offered me a job as a secretary so I should be out of your hair soon."

Martha eyed her. "I don't dislike having you here, Alex. You can stay as long as you want."

"I know, but it's still rude that I'm crashing here."

"That's what family is for," she said with a smile. "They are the only people in the world you can be rude to and get away with it."

"You have a point," Alexandra said.

"And Blaise gave you a job?"

Alex nodded.

"That was very nice of him."

"He seems intent on solving all our problems."

"When Mike died, he came to the house every day. He had his own mourning to do, but he still put me first."

The more Alexandra heard her aunt praise Blaise, the more she liked him. He seemed perfect in every way. He had a heart of gold, and the confidence of a god. "How old is he?"

"Twenty-four."

"Wow."

"What?" Martha asked.

"That's such a young age to own his own company."

"Well, he has everything under control." Martha rose from the table and kissed her on the cheek. "Good night, dear. And thank you for dinner."

"Make sure you put that ice pack on before bed."

"I will." She left the kitchen and disappeared into her room.

Even though Alexandra was tired, she didn't feel like sleeping. She grabbed her phone from her bag and walked outside. She stared at the screen for a long time before she turned it on. Like she expected, there were hundreds of messages from her friends. Paul had the lead in most calls. She skimmed through them then deleted them all. She composed a mass text message to everyone she knew, including Paul.

I'm well. Thank you for checking. I miss you all.

She turned off her phone again and sighed. The only reason she kept her phone off was because she didn't want anyone to track her down, especially Paul. Talking to him would just break her heart. It was better this way. Now she could really clear her head and find whatever she was looking for. She was searching for an answer, but she hadn't even found the question yet. Alexandra never felt more confused. She hoped time would heal all her wounds.
Chapter Eleven

Alexandra woke up early to look presentable. Last time she worked with Blaise, she looked like hell. She let her hair fall around her shoulders, and wore shorts and a bright t-shirt, which weren't covered in wrinkles like last time.

When she walked outside, he was already hard at work.

"Hey," she said awkwardly. Every time she was around him, she felt tense and nervous.

"Good morning," he said with a smile. He was examining the rows of dirt.

"How does it look?" she asked.

"Good. The manure seemed to help." He stood up and wiped his hands on his jeans. She noticed the definition of his thighs. They were solid. "I think we're ready for planting."

"That sounds good."

"Let's head to the warehouse."

"Okay."

They walked inside the building that housed all the machines.

"You're supposed to drive these?" she asked incredulously. They looked like cyber aliens to her. There were too many arms and levers. And the panel of buttons was equally intimidating.

"It's just like driving a car," he said.

"On a different planet, maybe."

"Everything seems frightening until you learn more about it. I assure you, they're easy to operate."

Alexandra didn't seem convinced.

"I'll show you," he said, laughing.

Once she was sitting inside the machine, he directed her hands. He explained the use of each button and how to operate it. When his hand brushed hers, the goose bumps tingled her arms. It was so quick and sudden, and it caught her by surprise. She wondered if he felt it too. He seemed so indifferent to her that she wasn't sure. Alexandra only seemed to get male attention from guys she didn't feel an instant chemistry with, not the ones she actually adored. She had a feeling Blaise wasn't an exception.

After watching Blaise drop some seeds into the rows, Alexandra took over and did a few on her own. She messed up her measurements a few times but she got better with practice. When the sun rose high in the sky, they quit for the day. Blaise drove the machine back into the warehouse while Alexandra watched him.

A refrigerator was inside the building and was stocked with bottled water and juice. He opened a water then handed it to her. "Don't get dehydrated."

She was parched so she drank the whole bottle.

He smiled at her. "You did good today."

"So I didn't break anything?"

"Not that I know of."

"At least I'm improving."

"How's Martha doing?"

"Good. I gave her something to put on her back."

He nodded. "She needs to rest. In a few days, she'll start to get restless. I know her. There isn't a lazy bone in that body."

"I may have to tie her up like a hog."

He chuckled. "She's too strong. She'd have you tied up before you could blink."

"Hey, I'm thirty years younger than she is."

"And thirty years less experienced."

She laughed. "You have a point." She was surprised how quickly their friendship developed. She didn't feel so nervous around him. He always made her laugh and she actually felt happy.

"Are you free tonight?"

Her heart raced in her chest and her palms started to sweat. Did he just ask her out? Alexandra hoped he did. When she looked into those blue eyes, she felt her knees turn to jelly. "Yeah."

"We can go over the files and everything you are supposed to do."

"What?"

He eyed her. "For the secretary position."

"Oh," she said sadly.

He stared her, looking at her features.

She tried to recover. "Sure. Do you want me to come to your place?"

"It's okay. I'll bring my computer by tonight. You can do most of it from home. Just make sure you answer my calls as often as possible. Give me your school schedule so I know when you aren't available."

"Okay."

He turned toward his truck. "I'll see you tonight then."

Alexandra's heart fell as she watched him go. She was stupid for ever assuming such a perfect guy would notice her. She probably stuck out like a weed in the garden, deadly and annoying. After a heavy sigh, she walked into the house and got ready for the afternoon.

When she was in class, she kept wondering what Blaise was doing. How did he run such a large organization all on his own and still make time to help her aunt? He was so compassionate and caring, she had a hard time understanding it. Selfless people like that didn't exist in real life. And selfless guys were a myth. She'd been spending a lot of time with him, every morning for the past week, but he still didn't make a move. Perhaps he thought Alexandra was family since he was so close to her aunt. Alexandra didn't feel that way at all. When she stared at his chest and his shoulders, she thought of other things that definitely weren't family friendly.

"Is everything okay?" Gabe asked.

"Huh?"

They were sitting in the library, tucked in a corner. She had her textbook open but she wasn't reading. She had been staring at the wall for half an hour, daydreaming about Blaise the entire time.

Gabe stared at her. "You seem distracted."

"Oh. I'm just stressed."

"About your new job?" he asked.

"Sure," she said.

"I wouldn't worry about it. It's only one day a week."

"Yeah..."

He turned back to his textbook and made some notes.

Alexandra couldn't stop thinking about Blaise. The only good thing about it was the fact that she wasn't thinking about Paul, her life in New York, or what happened at the hospital. That was something to be grateful for.

When she went home that night, she showered and did her hair, curling it so it hung at her shoulders. She wore jean shorts and a t-shirt. Since she wasn't in the city anymore, she didn't use most of her clothes. They were too dressy. She stuck to casual wear and waited for him on the porch. She moved in the rocking chair, staring into the distance of the fields.

Dirt billowed in the air as his truck moved down the road. She felt her heart race like it always did when he was near. She kept her face straight when he parked and got out.

"Beautiful evening," he said as Kane followed behind him. The dog turned to the two Rottweilers and they ran off together, fighting over old tennis balls and demolished toys.

"That's why I'm sitting out here."

He took the seat next to her. "What were you thinking about?"

She flinched at the question. "School."

Blaise smiled. "You're staring at something so beautiful, and you're thinking about school?"

"I guess I'm a bit odd."

"It's okay. I'm odd too." He looked at her. "Are you ready to get down to work?"

She nodded.

They walked inside and moved to the kitchen.

"Where's Martha?" he asked.

"She went to bed early. She just wasn't feeling well."

Blaise looked concerned. "Does she need anything?"

"No, I think she's already asleep."

"Okay." He sat down and pulled out his laptop. "I sent everything to your email."

She pulled it up. "I got it."

Blaise explained everything she was responsible for. Alexandra wrote down his directions in a separate word document just in case she forgot. He watched her and nodded slightly.

"I'd like a status every night of any issues you find with orders or inventory. Let me know your hours when you're done."

"Okay," she said.

"Do you have any questions?"

"No, it's pretty simple."

"Well, you're a better receptionist than a cotton grower."

She glared at him.

"You know I'm teasing," he said with a smile. "Instead of trying to work out a salary, just let me know your hours each week and I'll pay you based on that. That way you don't feel pressured to put in a certain amount of time when you have finals or you need to help Martha."

"That's fine."

He nodded then closed his laptop.

Alexandra knew he would leave, but she didn't want him to go. "Have you had dinner?"

"No."

"Would you like to stay? I haven't eaten yet either."

"That depends. Do you cook better than you grow cotton?"

She glared at him again.

"I would love to stay for dinner," he said quickly.

"Good answer." She got up and started working.

He stayed at the table and watched her. "What are we having?"

"Sloppy Joes."

"Excellent," he said as he nodded. "I like it."

"Martha used to make it for me when I was little. I've been hooked ever since."

He smiled at her. "Most girls wouldn't be caught dead eating that."

"Why?" she asked.

"Because it's messy."

"I don't care about that," she said.

"Even better."

She placed the dishes on the table and they ate across from each other.

He stared at her. "Will you judge me if I get it all over my face?"

"Not if you don't judge me for doing the same."

"Deal."

They dug into their food, and when Alexandra looked at Blaise, she saw red sauce all over his lips. She couldn't help but laugh.

"What?" he asked.

"Nothing," she said.

"What happened to not judging?"

"I wasn't," she said quickly. Even when he made a mess, he still looked good. It was hard to believe.

"You got a little something right here," he said as he pointed to the corner of his mouth.

She used a napkin to wipe the spot.

"You didn't get it." He moved his hand toward her face, which was covered in sauce.

Alexandra eyed it, suspicious.

He wiped it on her face, making her even dirtier.

"Gross!" Alexandra wiped her face with a napkin.

Blaise laughed. "You can save it for later."

"You're lucky I'm too polite to seek vengeance."

"And because I'm your teacher. You would be lost without me."

"Aren't you cocky?"

"There are a few things I'm exceptionally good at. Cotton growing is one of them."

"What are the others?"

He wiped his face with a napkin. "Let's keep this PG."

Alexandra felt the area between her legs burn. Her cheeks turned red as his meaning dawned on her. She already thought about him in a sexual way, but his words only heightened it, making it a million times worse.

He carried the plates to the sink and washed them. Alexandra didn't help him because she was still shocked by his last comment. She kept her face hidden so he wouldn't see how much it affected her. After drying his hands, he grabbed his bag.

"Thank you for dinner."

"You're welcome," she whispered.

"Call me if you need anything."

"Okay."

His hands were in his pockets as he stared at her. The tension in the room increased as they stood in the kitchen. Alexandra wanted an excuse to get him to stay but she couldn't think of anything.

"I'll see you later." He opened the door and walked out.

Alexandra followed and watched him walk to his truck. "Good night."

He got inside and started the engine. Kane jumped over the tailgate and barked at his friends, saying goodbye.

Alexandra watched him drive all the way to the dirt road. When his bright taillights disappeared, she knew he was really gone. She realized her attraction to Blaise was stronger than she thought. She had never asked out a guy before, but for the first time, she wanted to make a move. Sweet men were hard to find, and Alexandra could tell Blaise was a rare gem.
Chapter Twelve

Instead of going home, Blaise drove to a nearby creek. He and his father used to fire their guns at targets there, far away from homes and pedestrians. It had been a tradition since he was little. Now he went there to think. The sound of the quiet stream calmed his beating heart. Memories of his past flooded his mind.

He sat on the tailgate and thought about his life. He wasn't sure what he was doing. His ex-girlfriend still lived with him. He wanted her gone forever, even though she acted like they hadn't broken up. She did everything she could to change his mind, but nothing worked. There was no love there. There definitely wasn't trust. And there would never be a friendship. It was a situation that could have been avoided if he had used his brain, not his dick. But he couldn't get rid of her even if he wanted to. He had a state-of-the-art alarm system in his house, and his presence kept Evan away. If he kicked her out, she wouldn't be safe. He needed to find a long-term solution to the problem, something that gave him back his freedom, but he hadn't found it yet.

And now he felt even more confused after Alexandra came into his life. As soon as they met, there was a connection. She made him laugh and smile. Everything was easy with her, simple. And she was gorgeous. When she came onto the field that first morning, her hair in a braid and a baseball cap shielding her eyes from the sun, he was immediately smitten. Her beauty was hard to hide. Even though he and Danielle were over, had been for months, he still felt guilty for feeling that way about Alexandra. Since Danielle still lived with him, he felt like he was still in the relationship in a twisted way. And he felt even worse for Alexandra. How could he have feelings for her when his ex-girlfriend was still around?

The sound of the crickets took over his mind. He tried not to think about anything, clearing his mind of everything that could cause stress or tension. When it became late, he headed home. He had to wake up just a few hours later and repeat his day.

After driving home, he walked into the house. Danielle was standing in the parlor, looking pissed.

"What?" he snapped.

"Why are you home so late?"

"None of your business." He walked into the living room and turned on the TV, searching for something to watch.

"It is my business. You said you were training your new secretary. It's past midnight."

"And that's what I was doing."

"It shouldn't take five hours."

"Well, I went somewhere else afterward." He didn't look at her, trying to concentrate on the screen.

"Are you fucking this girl?"

He took a deep breath then turned off the TV. "Let's get this straight. Who I fuck is none of your business. We're done. I mean it."

She glared at him. "No, we aren't. You aren't talking to that whore anymore. I mean it."

"She isn't a whore! Nothing is going on, but it doesn't matter if it is. I want you out, Danielle. Now."

"I'm not going anywhere."

"I'll call the cops if I have to. Your deadline is coming up. You haven't packed a single thing."

"That's because I'm not leaving."

He kicked the table over. "You're only with me for my money. Now get out!"

"That isn't true. I love you!"

Blaise marched to the bedroom they used to share and took everything out of her drawers, tossing it all on the floor. "Get out, Danielle."

"Stop it! I'm sorry, okay? This has been hard on me. I need you, Blaise."

He kept going.

Danielle hit him in the back of the head, making him buckle under the unexpected blow. He turned to her, his eyes burning with raging fire.

"Don't fucking touch me."

She stepped back.

He pushed her against the wall, pinning her with his body "I don't love you. Why don't you understand that?" She shook as he stared her down. "You need to leave. I'm ready to move on with my life. I can't do that when you're still here. You're like a leech that latches onto me, draining the life directly out of my skin." He slammed his fist against the wall. "If you aren't out by morning, I'll call the cops and embarrass you in front of the whole town."

Tears poured down her face. She wiped them away and averted her gaze.

It wasn't in his nature to be so angry or so cold, but his boiling point had been reached. She'd been ruining his life for the past year. It had gone on long enough.

"Blaise—"

"Shut the hell up."

She sniffed. "What will I do?"

"I don't know."

"Please...I have nowhere to go. If I leave tomorrow, Evan will find me. Word will spread in town. It won't take Evan long to come looking for me."

"Go back to your mother's house. Your dad will look after you."

"I can't." She continued to sob. "I can't go back there."

"That isn't my problem."

"Tell me what I can do..."

"Get out of my life," Blaise said firmly. "If you really love me, which I know you don't, you'll let me go."

She crossed her arms over her chest and stared at the ground. "Is there someone else?"

"We haven't been together in months. By definition, there can't be someone else."

"Blaise?"

"I'm not having this conversation with you."

"Who is it? Why are you trying to get rid of me? You told me you would always protect me from him. I know Evan will kill me, and he'll make it painful."

"Stop talking," he snapped.

She sniffed.

Blaise hated to see her cry. It was the worst. He had a feeling he was going to regret this, but that didn't stop him. "Fine. But I'm not your boyfriend. I will date and fuck other women."

"Okay..."

They said nothing, uncomfortable under the tension in the room. Blaise still felt the anger flood his body, circulating everywhere. He hated Danielle, but he hated himself more. If he wasn't so stupid, this situation never would have happened. He had no one else to blame but himself. If he hadn't fucked her to begin with, her ex-boyfriend wouldn't have snapped.

"Blaise?"

"What?" He clenched his jaw as he spoke, trying not to let the venom escape.

"Why didn't you ask me to be your secretary? You know I need a job."

"I don't trust you."

"And you trust this random girl?"

"She isn't random," he said simply.

"Have you fucked her?"

"I shouldn't have to answer that," he said. "But no, I haven't fucked anyone. And I can't until you leave. So now you understand why I'm in such a hurry to get rid of you."

"How can you say that to me?"

"Shut the hell up. You told me we didn't need to wear condoms because you were on the pill. You obviously lied so you would get knocked up. Or you lied about being pregnant so I would ask you to move in. You've been after my money from the beginning, and I was an idiot for falling for it."

She sniffed. "That isn't true."

"Give it a rest." He walked toward the door. "Now it doesn't matter. Since I'm not a complete asshole, I'll let you stay until I figure out what to do with you. I'm ready to move on with someone else, but I can't do that when everyone thinks we're still together."

She averted her gaze, looking at anything but him.

He slammed the door closed, shaking the entire house.
Chapter Thirteen

After Blaise finished his economics course, he met with his counselor.

"Hello, Professor Hank."

"Sit down." He nodded to the chair across from his desk.

Blaise received an email from his professor, asking for a meeting. He wasn't sure what the topic of their conversation would be. He waited for him to speak.

"After looking at your transcripts and your course plan, I've come to realize that this isn't working."

"What do you mean?" Blaise asked.

"If you keep taking one course a semester, you're never going to finish on time. It'll take you twelve years just to get your bachelor's. You need to take more classes, Mr. Cunnings."

Blaise sighed. "I would if I could. The cotton takes up a lot of my time."

He nodded. "Maybe you should just concentrate on that then."

"But this is my dream," he said quickly.

"Well, you clearly can't do both. Pick one, Mr. Cunnings."

Blaise didn't know what to do.

"And law school is another four years after that. This isn't going to happen."

"I just need a few years to figure things out. I'll sell it or hire a manager."

"You've been saying that for two years."

"I know..."

"I know this isn't my place, but I'm just trying to help you. If this is what you want to pursue, you need to do it now. At this rate, you're just wasting your time."

"It's complicated..."

"Then uncomplicate it."

"It's not that easy."

Professor Hank shrugged. "I've given you my advice. Do what you will. But if I were you, I'd be happy with what you have. Most people aren't so lucky."

Blaise hated hearing that. He didn't consider losing his parents as good luck. He had always planned on going to college, knowing his brother would take over the company. But that hadn't worked out. His father left the company to Blaise instead. He trusted Blaise to keep his legacy alive. How could he just walk away from that? It would be selfish to chase his dream. The argument repeated itself in his mind, over and over. "Thank you for your concern."

Hank nodded. "I'm your counselor for a reason."

Blaise left the office and walked back to his truck. He felt the stress weigh heavily on his heart. Danielle was still at the house so he avoided going home as much as possible. He was only there to work or sleep. He decided to go to the bar where he knew his friends would be.

He ordered a beer then sat in their usual booth.

"You look like hell," Ray said.

"That sounds about right." Blaise drank from his beer, then stared at the TV.

"She still driving you crazy?"

"Don't remind me."

"You want to crash at my place tonight?"

"I would love to."

"You live in a mansion, but you're going to settle for an apartment?" He laughed. "That's ironic."

"It's not a mansion when the devil lives there. It's a haunted house."

Ray nodded. "Why don't you just break up with her?"

"It's complicated...but it'll happen eventually."

"And you'll be hunting pussy again."

Blaise glared at him. "No. I'm not like that anymore."

"What?"

"I'm done with that. I need to grow up and be a man. Besides, that gets old. Look where it got me."

"That was just a really bad experience."

"I'm still done with it."

"Do you have your eye on someone?"

Blaise hadn't told anyone how he felt about Alexandra. Word traveled fast in Savannah. Since he had to keep up pretenses with Danielle, he decided to keep it to himself. "No."

"When was the last time you got any?"

"Months."

"So you must be dying."

He shrugged.

"If you've been with Danielle this whole time, you may as well have kept banging her. That sounds fair."

"I don't want her. When you hate someone, any desire you may have had disappears. The idea of being with her disgusts me."

"Damn..."

"Let's talk about something else."

"Okay. How's the business?"

"John keeps riding my ass."

"That guy seriously needs to let it go," Ray said. "It's been two years."

"He follows me everywhere, watching my every move."

"That would get old quick."

"I feel like I'm always talking about myself," Blaise said. "What's new with you?"

He shrugged. "School is lame—like always."

"Any lady friends?"

"Nope. Not recently."

"You're boring," Blaise said with a laugh.

"What a nice thing to say," Ray said sarcastically. "But at least my life isn't full of drama."

"You have a point." Blaise tapped his glass against his. "And be grateful for that."

"I am."

Blaise downed his glass then threw some money on the table. "I should get home."

"It's only a little while longer, man. Hold on."

"Thanks."

He drove home and walked into the parlor. When he heard voices in the other room, he sighed in annoyance. He didn't feel like entertaining anyone. He walked into the kitchen and felt his irritation rise.

He glared at Danielle, silently cursing her.

"I made lasagna," she said sweetly. "I hope you're hungry."

Blaise didn't respond to her words. He looked at his Uncle John, who was sitting at the table. "Uncle."

"I thought I would stop by. Your lovely wife let me in."

"She isn't my wife," Blaise snapped.

John shrugged. "Sorry." His features were similar to Blaise's father. They both had dark brown hair and blue eyes, but John's nose was larger and his face rounder.

Blaise sat down and took a bite of his lasagna. He hated Danielle but he liked her cooking. "What do you want?" he said simply.

"Just to visit."

"Cut the shit," Blaise snapped.

"Always had impeccable manners," his uncle said.

Blaise ate his dinner and tried to ignore his uncle. He would admit what he wanted in time.

"I found a buyer in South Korea. He said he would pay three times the amount per pound of cotton."

Blaise hardly ever did international orders. His father warned him not to, and he followed his advice. "Thank you for the tip."

"So you'll do it?"

"No."

"Come on," John said. "I'll take a small percent. Twenty."

Blaise shook his head. "I don't do orders outside the U.S."

"That's where your dad was wrong. If you want to increase your market, you have to expand. We can buy more land and feed the orders."

"I'm already the biggest cotton manufacturer in the south. I don't need more business."

John shook his head. "You're a horrible businessman."

Blaise ignored the insult. Now he was more upset with Danielle because she let John in the house. He specifically told her not to ever do that. "What do they need the cotton for?"

John stared at him incredulously. "What does it matter?"

"It does fucking matter," he snapped. "Why do they need the business now? How did you even get a hold of them?"

"I know a guy."

"A smart businessman doesn't dive headfirst into a pool when he doesn't know how deep it is."

"Fine," John said. "They are selling it to North Korea so they can make uniforms. North Korea is losing trading partners by the day. They are getting desperate for goods so they'll pay any price. I'm using South Korea as the middleman so I don't have to deal with them directly."

"Are you fucking kidding me?" Blaise snapped. "This is exactly why Dad wanted me to run the business, not you."

John stood up. "And what the hell is that supposed to mean?"

Blaise stood up. "Do you know what the hell is going on in South Korea? They are practically running concentration camps. Why would I give them cotton to make fucking uniforms? So they can enslave those innocent people even more? Fuck no."

"That isn't our concern. We are businessmen. We care about numbers, not ethics."

Blaise slammed his plate on the ground, shattering it to pieces. Danielle covered her mouth and gasped. John's eyes widened. "Get the fuck out of my house!"

John stared him down.

"I said get out."

John left the house, slamming the door behind him.

Blaise clenched his fists at his sides, trying to control the anger inside him. He turned to Danielle, wanting to rip her throat out. "I told you not to let him in," he snapped. "I specifically said that."

"I know—but he kept talking and it just happened. I'm sorry."

"I can't wait until you are out of my life forever."

She flinched at his words.

Blaise marched into his shower and sat under the water, still fully clothed. He had never been so angry in his life. The frustration was so strong, he felt tears bubble under his eyes. Everything in his life was so messed up. He was stuck there, carrying on the legacy, but he had no desire to do it. He wanted to get up and leave, never looking back.
Chapter Fourteen

Blaise and Alexandra worked in the field bright and early the next morning. Blaise was quiet, still upset about the day before. He didn't have much to say most of the time.

When they returned the seed planter machine to the warehouse, Alexandra stared at him, seeing the stress etched on his features. Blaise felt her look.

"Is everything okay?" she asked gently.

He kept his back to her and opened the refrigerator. He didn't think he could lie to her. She would see right through his tough exterior. He had already told her more than anyone else. He grabbed two waters. "Yeah." He turned around and handed her one.

She took it apprehensively. "I'm here if you change your mind."

Blaise sighed, irritated that she didn't fall for his lie. She drank her water and tilted her head back, exposing her neck. He stared at the curves of her throat, noting the slender lines and grooves. She was petite everywhere, small and round. He noted the slight curl of her hair. The waves bounced around her shoulders and highlighted the green of her eyes. He always preferred brunettes, and was especially attracted to her. Her sweetness and compassion immediately drew him in. Selfish people flooded the world, and he was grateful there were a few people left not like that. She had a natural bounce to her. "I just had a bad day yesterday."

She turned toward the ladder that led to the hatch up above. She climbed it until she reached the top. "Come on."

He tried not to stare at her ass as she climbed. It was round and perky. Her jeans fit perfectly, making his imagination run wild. He shook his head to clear those thoughts then followed her to the loft.

She sat on the hay pile, staring at him. He sat across from her then held his water tightly, suddenly aware of how alone they were. They were hidden from the world, away from the peeking eyes of her aunt. He looked at her lips, wondering how soft they were. He imagined how they would feel against his mouth.

"I used to climb up here when my aunt and I played hide-and-seek."

"What?" He stopped thinking about kissing her.

She smiled. "When I was little I would hide in here. It was my favorite spot. Martha never found me because I would take the ladder with me. One day, she got so scared she called the police. I thought it was funny at the time."

"I would have loved to see that. She must have been pissed when she found you."

"Actually, she wasn't. She hugged me and started crying, saying she was so happy I was okay."

"That's a sweet story."

"But the next day she was pissed."

Blaise laughed. "That sounds more like Martha."

"So I always come up here when I'm trying to hide. You can use it if you want."

His eyes softened at her words. When she said things like that, he fell for her more. "Thank you."

She grabbed a piece of straw and played with it. Her gaze was downcast.

Blaise took advantage of the opportunity to stare at her. The curves of her face were angelic. Everything about her was perfect.

"Do you want to talk about it?" she whispered.

Blaise didn't want to talk about Danielle. To keep her safe, he couldn't tell anyone she lived with him, and if he did, he had to say they were still together. Otherwise, it wouldn't make any sense. And telling the wrong person in a small town could get back to Evan, and Danielle would be screwed. Blaise was screwed either way. Admitting she still lived with him even though she was his ex would be a huge turnoff for Alexandra, if she even had feelings for him. Blaise couldn't tell if she did. Sometimes she stared at him, her eyes lingering on his lips and chest, but he wasn't sure if it meant anything. She was nice to him but she was nice to everyone. She was a sweetheart. "My uncle is upset that I got the business and he didn't. He came over last night and tried to convince me to make a business deal that was completely unethical. I said no and lost my temper."

"What was it?"

"Basically, I would be giving North Korea supplies. Since they have such an inhumane government system, I refused to do business with them. I couldn't care less how much money was on the table."

She nodded. "We need more business owners like that. We could have destroyed their government by now."

"Maybe," he said noncommittally. "Their possession of nuclear weapons might make that more complicated."

Alexandra twirled the straw in her fingertips.

"I feel like my hands are tied. The easy thing to do would be give my uncle the company so I can pursue my own career but I can't do that. All he cares about is making money. He'll cut salaries and dilute the quality of the cotton to make a better profit. In other words, he'll run it to the ground."

"What about your brother?"

Blaise shook his head. "He's the laziest guy I know."

"I don't have any advice I can give."

"Like I said, my hands are tied." He rested his elbows on his knees and sighed.

She stared at him sympathetically, then moved toward him.

Blaise watched her come to him. His heart raced in his chest as she sat beside him. When she hooked her arm through his and rested her head on his shoulder, he almost fainted. The touch seared his skin, making him burn on the inside. Her hand was so small on his arm. Strands of her hair touched his neck. It was soft and silky, tickling him.

"I'm sorry this is happening to you," she whispered.

He placed his hand on top of hers. "I know."

They fell silent. It was dark inside the warehouse and the sunlight flittered through the wooden boards. Blaise had other things to do, but he abandoned them in light of her affection. He could stay there all day, just holding her.

"I admire you," she said. "You refuse to let your father's work fall into the wrong hands, even if the cost is your passion."

"I could never do that to him," he whispered.

"You're the most selfless man I've ever met."

"You're pretty selfless too."

She didn't respond to his comment.

Blaise knew he had to leave. He wanted to enjoy this moment as much as possible but it had to end. He turned to her, and without thinking, pressed his lips to her forehead, letting them linger for a long time. She didn't respond overtly. Only her breathing hitched. "I should go," he whispered.

She pulled away and nodded. "I have school."

"And I have work."

Alexandra stared at him, waiting for him to speak. He wasn't sure what she wanted. Maybe she wanted him to ask her out. He couldn't tell. It seemed like she had feelings for him because she was affectionate with him, but he couldn't be sure. Regardless, he wasn't ready for that just yet. It would have to wait.

He climbed down the ladder and waited for her at the bottom. He forced himself not to stare at her ass this time. It was the hardest thing he's ever done. When she joined him on the ground, they left the warehouse and walked to his truck.

"I'll see you later."

She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. Blaise noticed the behavior. She did it often, especially when the moment was tense. Desire exploded inside him and he gave into his weakness. He pulled her to his chest and hugged her, feeling her body against his. He rested his chin on top of her head, enjoying her small size in his arms. She fit him perfectly. The smell of her hair moved to his nostrils, relaxing him. He loved holding her.

His hand moved to her lower back, where he felt the steep curve. Her frame was solid, full of lean muscle. She had a small belly in the front, but he thought it was sexy. Her hourglass figure made him more attracted to her. She had all the right curves in all the right places. When he thought about her body, his erection came to life. He hoped she couldn't feel it.

Blaise pulled away. "Have a good day."

She stepped back, a smile on her face. "I hope you feel better."

"Alexandra, I already feel better."
Chapter Fifteen

Alexandra was confused. She knew she felt something for Blaise, and she thought he felt something too. The kiss on her forehead left her feeling weak and happy. The touch of his lips, slightly wet and warm, made her stomach turn in knots. A smile stretched on her lips. She couldn't help feeling elated.

"You're happy today," Gabe said from across the table.

"Oh." She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. Alexandra hadn't realized he was watching her. "I'm just excited to start my job today."

He chuckled. "I've never been excited for work a day in my life."

"I'm very unusual..."

"No, you're just unique. And that's a good thing." He turned back to his book.

Alexandra hadn't told her new friends about Blaise. Since she rejected Gabe, saying she wasn't interested in dating anyone, she felt like a liar. She meant what she said at the time. But then Blaise made her blood rush to her head. Perhaps it was too soon to be with someone else. She and Paul hadn't been broken up for long, but that relationship died a while ago. All the calls he missed, the nights when he couldn't explain where he was, and the rumors she heard about him damaged that relationship irrevocably. But she still felt guilty not being upfront with her friends.

But Blaise was different. He was so similar to her. The connection they felt as soon as they met was paramount, undeniable. He was already her closest friend, someone she trusted. She never felt that way with Paul. There was a physical attraction, but not the powerful bond.

She decided to keep her feelings to herself. Gabe had been nice to her since she moved there. The last thing she wanted to do was hurt him. She'd wait a while before saying anything. But there might not be anything with Blaise anyway. He still hadn't asked her out.

Hannah joined the table, dropping her enormous physics book on the surface. "This thing weighs more than I do." She sighed then sat down.

Alexandra eyed it. "How's it going?"

Hannah leaned back in her chair. "You know that moment when you walk into a conversation and everyone is talking about international dividends and high interest bonds but you have no idea what's being said, so you just nod along and pretend?"

Alexandra shrugged. "I guess."

"Well, that's what it's like." She ran her fingers through her hair.

"I can help," Alexandra offered. "I took it fairly recently."

"I just don't get it. I don't even know why I need this stupid class."

"Well, physics deals with levels of force, angles of rotation, and speed. I can see why you would need that as a physical education teacher."

Hannah glared at her. "Nerds..."

Alexandra laughed. "Sorry." She opened Hannah's textbook and took out her notes. She skimmed through them then pointed out a problem. "You got this answer wrong because you didn't square the speed of gravity. It's always increasing the longer it's in affect."

Hannah stared at her. "Are you a genius?"

Alexandra shook her head vigorously. "Not even a little."

"It seems like it."

Alexandra checked the time. "Let me know if you need any help."

"Why don't you have a cell phone?" Hannah blurted.

"Oh," she said. "I lost it."

"Well, get a new one. How am I supposed to call you for help if I can't get a hold of you?"

"Good point," Alexandra said. "I'll get one."

"And we need to go shopping for Saturday."

"Why?" Alexandra asked.

"What are you going to wear to the cornfield party?"

She shrugged. "Jeans?"

Hannah shook her head. "I'll take care of you, babe."

Gabe laughed. "Alex isn't your Barbie doll."

"She is now," Hannah said with a smile. "Every guy is going to drool over you."

Alexandra didn't want every guy to drool over her. There was only one guy she wanted. "Uh..."

"You'll be fine, Alex," Gabe said.

"Well, I should get to work," Alexandra said as she packed her stuff. "I'll see you later."

"Bye," they both said.

Alexandra changed into her scrubs then walked to the hospital. She was nervous. She hadn't been in the emergency room since her last day of work. Although, knowing she wouldn't be doing anything strenuous made her feel a little better.

After she clocked in, another tech showed her the floor, the list of physician phone numbers, the medical kits, and where the supplies were stored. She introduced herself to everyone and they seemed friendly.

A man in a white coat approached her. "You're the new tech?"

"Yes," she said with a smile.

"It's nice to meet you. I'm Dr. Kenley."

She shook his hand. "It's a pleasure."

He handed her the chart. "Here are the orders. Make sure they go through."

"Of course." She took the chart and put the orders in the computer. A CT scan and a chest x-ray were sent to radiology. Habit got the better of her, and she scanned through the chart, wondering why the patient was admitted and what medications were ordered. Everything seemed to be in order so she took the chart to the nurse.

She still hadn't gone into a patient room because she was too scared. If a code came in, she knew she would have to do CPR or help with the intubation. That made her nervous. What if she did it incorrectly and cracked the patient's sternum? She doubted herself in every single way, double-checking her every move.

Suzie, the other tech, sat beside her. "You seem nervous."

Alexandra shrugged. "It's my first day..."

"Are you going into the medical field?"

"Uh...I'm not sure."

Suzie raised an eyebrow. "Then why are you a tech?"

"It sounded like an interesting job."

"Well, let me know if you have any questions. I've been working here for a few years."

"Thanks," Alexandra said. "I appreciate it."

When it got slow in the ER, Alexandra sorted through the charts, making sure nothing was missing. She tried to be discreet about it so the nurses wouldn't assume she was being nosey. After what happened to her, she was paranoid something would go wrong.

"Alex," the charge nurse said. "Can you do a wound cleaning for room six?"

"Uh, sure," she said. Anxiety flooded her body.

Suzie eyed her, noticing the fear on her face.

Alexandra grabbed her kit and washed her hands before she walked in the room. The patient had a soiled bandage on his back. She followed everything by the book and went through each step carefully. The wound was red, full of viscous blood. At least it wasn't extremely infected. When she finished, she felt a little more confident. She grabbed his chart and looked over the paperwork. He had an IV placed into his left hand so she looked at the order, seeing it was for normal saline. Naturally, she checked the bag to verify. When she saw it was penicillin, panic set in. She took a deep breath and assured herself it was written on the chart. His wound wasn't seriously infected, so she didn't see the necessity of IV antibiotics, but she wasn't a doctor. She looked through the chart but didn't see the order. Instead, she saw his list of allergies. Penicillin was one of them. Now she felt dizzy. She immediately went to the machine and stopped the IV, checking to see how much was let in the bolus. She was disconcerted to see the bag was almost completed.

Alexandra immediately left the room and stood still, trying to figure out what to do. She needed to act fast. She went to the charge nurse first. "Betty, I was going over this patient's chart and I found that a bolus of saline was ordered."

She stared at Alexandra like she was nothing but a nuisance.

Alexandra continued on. "But a bag of penicillin is hooked up instead. And he's allergic to that antibiotic."

Her eyes widened. She took the chart from Alexandra's hand and skimmed through it. She immediately walked into the room then returned a moment later. Her face was stoic but the panic was set in. "Thank you, Alex." She walked into the doctor's office and he came running out a second later. Ellen, the nurse for that room, looked up from her desk, confused.

Dr. Kenley came out a moment later. "Call Atlanta Medical Center. This is beyond our equipment."

Alexandra immediately made the call and the chopper arrived. They got the patient to the helipad on top of the roof. With the amount of antibiotic in his blood stream, Alexandra wasn't sure what would happen. But this country hospital was obviously too small to take care of it.

When everyone came back to the ER, the charge nurse took Ellen aside. A few minutes later, she was crying, grabbing her stuff from her desk.

Alexandra felt horrible. She was pretty sure Ellen just got sacked. Ellen came to Alexandra and glared at her. "You could have come to me first." The venom in her voice was unmistakable. Alexandra was hurt by the aggressive tone. She was just trying to do the right thing. "I have two kids with no dad."

Alexandra was speechless. There was no other way. Even if she told the nurse first, the patient still needed to be shipped out. It couldn't have gone down any other way. The patient was the most important thing, not this woman's job. But she kept her words back.

Ellen glared at her again then left the floor, tears still coming down her cheeks.

Betty came to Alexandra and clapped her on the shoulder. "That was a good catch, Alex. You may have saved his life."

She averted her gaze, unsure if she deserved the praise. "Thanks..."

"Are you planning on becoming a nurse?"

Alexandra fidgeted with her hands. "I don't know if I could handle it."

"I think you could. You pay attention to detail. And, more importantly, you care." She patted her back again. "Keep up the good work, Alex."

Suzie eyed Alex. "I can't believe that just happened."

"I feel so bad for Ellen."

"Why?" she snapped. "It was her fault."

"I'm sure it was an honest mistake," she said gently.

"That doesn't matter. Nurses can't afford to make mistakes. Everything they do matters. I wouldn't want her taking care of me. You did the world a favor."

That didn't make Alexandra feel any better. "Do you think she'll get a job somewhere else?"

"No," she snapped. "Her career is over. It should be over."

Alexandra tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. Now she felt more nervous than she did before. It was so easy to make a simple mistake, grab the wrong bag or read the wrong label. She wasn't any different than Ellen. Now she was more careful with everything she did, but mistakes were still made. Even though she saved a life today, it still didn't make up for the one she lost.

When her shift was over, Martha picked her up and drove her back to the house. "How was work?"

"It was okay." She looked out the window and remained silent.

"Is it weird being in a hospital again?"

"I guess." She kept her responses short because she wanted this conversation to end.

Martha eyed her then turned away. "I know something happened, Alex. I wish you would just tell me."

"I'm not ready."

"Well, I'm here whenever you are."

When they walked into the house, Martha tried to hand her the phone. "Abby called."

Alexandra's eyes widened. "She did? How did she know I was here?"

"Call her back and find out." She placed the phone on the table then walked into her room.

Alexandra eyed it for a long time before she picked it up and stepped onto the front porch. She was close with her sister. They were only a year apart, making them inseparable during their youth. They fought over stupid things like most siblings, but they still put each other first. She imagined how the conversation would go. She knew her sister would be pissed that Alexandra just took off without saying a word. She dialed the number and listened to it ring.

"Wow," Abby said. "You actually called me back."

"I can't believe it either."

Abby was quiet for a moment. "So, are you going to tell me what's going on? Because Paul and everyone else you've ever known is pestering me for your whereabouts."

"Did you tell them?"

"Alex, you know me better than that."

"Did you call Mom?"

"No," she said quickly. "I knew that was the last place you'd go. I'm not stupid."

Alexandra breathed a sigh of relief.

"Since I've been such a great secret keeper, I'd appreciate it if you filled me in."

"Well, I broke up with Paul."

"I pieced that together," she said sarcastically. "Why?"

"I just kept hearing things about him."

"Like what?"

"He's been with some other girl. When I asked him about it, he always said nothing really happened, and he was only with her because I wasn't around."

Abby paused for a moment. "Paul doesn't seem like the cheating type."

"Well, he didn't love me."

"That's not what he told me when he came over here."

Alexandra sighed. "If he does, it's only because he can't have me anymore."

"I'm just shocked that happened."

"Stop taking his side," Alexandra snapped.

"I'm not! You told me you were in love with this guy then you dump him so suddenly."

"It wasn't sudden."

"Well, he seems sincere with his apologies."

Alexandra said nothing.

"So, what's going on in Georgia?"

"I'm going back to school."

"Are you fucking kidding me? Are you seriously just going to abandon your nursing career? You've wanted to be one since you were, like, two."

"I'm not good at it."

Abby sighed. "Alex, it was a mistake. Let it go."

"Let's talk about something else."

"Fine," Abby snapped. "How long are you staying there?"

"Permanently."

"What? I don't think so."

"I am," Alexandra said. "I'm not going back to New York."

"So you are just going to run away from all your problems?"

"I'm not running away. I'm starting over."

"Same thing," Abby said.

"Nothing you say will change my mind."

"You've always been the stubborn sister."

"I have to uphold my reputation," Alexandra said with a smile.

Abby moved the phone to her other ear. "Have you made any friends or have you been living in a dark corner like usual?"

"I'm going through a hard time. Maybe you should save the jokes."

She laughed. "Never."

"I've met a few people. Everyone here is really nice."

"How's Martha?"

"Her back is thrown out. I've been taking care of the cotton."

"What?" Abby said with a laugh. "You're working in the fields? Wow. I never thought you'd do that."

"Well, I'm not alone. Blaise does most of the work. He's teaching me."

"Who's Blaise?"

The question immediately made her feel lightheaded. "A friend," she said quietly.

"I recognize that tone," Abby said. "He's so not a friend. Spill it."

"You can't tell anyone."

"Seriously? When have I ever blabbed your secrets? We're best friends for a reason."

"Well, I like him—a lot."

"You and Paul _just_ broke up."

"Officially," Alexandra snapped. "But that relationship has been over for a while. It ended the moment he betrayed me."

"I think you're wrong about that."

"It's my relationship," Alexandra said. "I know it pretty well."

"Anyway, what's going on with Blaise?"

"Nothing, really. We've just been spending time together." She felt a smile stretch her face. "He's selfless, compassionate, and funny. And his body—yowza."

"Does he got a brother?"

Alexandra laughed. "He does, but he doesn't sound all that great."

"If he's beautiful, I don't care."

Alexandra rolled her eyes. "He kissed me on the forehead the other day."

"Steamy."

"Shut up, Abby."

"What?" she said with a laugh. "You're acting like this is eighth grade."

"I like sensitive guys like that," Alexandra said. "His first thought wasn't trying to get between my legs. Those kind of guys are hard to find."

"Because they don't exist. I'm sure this guy is a pervert just like the rest."

"Well, he doesn't act like that around me and that's what matters."

"Because Aunt Martha would shoot his head off."

They both laughed. "She totally would," Alexandra said.

"Then she would feed his body to the dogs."

Alexandra laughed again. "I miss you, sis."

"I miss you too," she said gently. "I should come out and visit. Since you aren't coming back and all."

"Aunt Martha and I would love that."

"Are you working?"

"Well, Blaise gave me a job as a secretary. I do his bookkeeping. I work from home."

"Wait, what does he do?"

"He owns his own cotton company."

"Is this guy loaded?"

Alexandra didn't see why that mattered. "According to his salary he is."

"This guy sounds perfect."

Alexandra rolled her eyes. "I don't care about his money."

"Sure..."

"And I work at the hospital as a tech. It's just a part-time gig."

"Is that making you more comfortable about returning to nursing?"

"Not really," Alexandra said. "A patient had the wrong IV, and when I told the charge nurse, she fired the nurse taking care of the patient."

"What's the big deal about the wrong IV?"

"It's a _big_ deal. He was getting penicillin, which he was allergic to, and he should have been getting saline."

"And you caught that?"

"Yeah."

"Alex, that's proof you're a good nurse," Abby said. "Don't let your past ruin your life."

"I'm not talking about this."

She sighed. "You can be so annoying sometimes."

"Well, we are related."

Abby laughed.

"Anything new with you?" Alexandra had no idea what had been happening with her sister since she left.

"Nothing compared to you," she said. "But Mom will find out eventually. You may as well be proactive about it."

"I'll enjoy the peace while I can."

Abby yawned. "Well, I'll talk to you later. I'm tired."

"Okay."

"And turn on your cell phone so I can text you."

"But then other people will call me."

"Fine, I'll call the house phone."

"Thanks."

"Love you."

"Love you too, Abs."

She hung up and dropped the phone into her lap. Alexandra stared across the field, watching the night become darker. Distant headlights would pass every few minutes, the travelers disappearing just as quickly as a shooting star. Alexandra rocked the chair back and forth, holding her knees to her chest. The night passed without incident. She thought about her life and where it was going. The destination was unclear, but she couldn't deter from the path. This was the direction she chose. She had to keep going.
Chapter Sixteen

Nothing else had happened with Blaise in the following weeks. He was distant and unaffectionate. Alexandra had no idea what was going on. She tried to push it to the back of her mind.

"How about this?" Hannah pulled out a dress that was so short it looked like a shirt.

Alexandra eyed it apprehensively. "Where's the rest of it?"

Hannah rolled her eyes. "You're so gorgeous. I just want to dress you up."

"Then we should find something that might fit," Alexandra said.

Lisa laughed. "How about this one?" It was a sundress made of silk.

"Isn't this a field party?" Alexandra asked.

"Yeah," Lisa said.

"So wouldn't jeans be better?"

"Girls wear dresses," Lisa said. "You would stick out if you didn't."

"Oh, okay..." Alexandra searched through the dresses until she found one that was navy blue and long enough to reach her knees. "I like this one."

Lisa shrugged. "It's a little long."

Alexandra laughed. "Well, I want to be able to sit down."

"Try it on," Hannah said.

Alexandra walked into the fitting room and tried it on. It was a halter top that fit her waist snugly. It squeezed her thighs, but was loose enough to move around in. When she came out, they both clapped.

"It's cute," Lisa said. "I approve."

"It makes your boobs look good," Hannah said.

"Uh, thanks."

Gabe came from the other side of the store and nodded his head in approval. He winked. "I like it."

Alexandra blushed at his compliment. She didn't realize he was going to offer his opinion as well. "I'll get it then."

"Good," Hannah said. "Because it's a winner."

She bought the dress with her first paycheck from Blaise, and they walked to Lisa's truck in the parking lot. They drove Alexandra back to her house in the country, and when they pulled up to her house, everyone got out. Alexandra wasn't sure what they were doing. She didn't want to be rude and ask.

They all went into the house and saw Martha sitting on the couch.

"I didn't realize we were having company," she said with a smile.

"Hey, Martha," Lisa said. "We're going to help Alexandra get ready for the party."

Alexandra didn't think she needed help but she didn't say anything.

Martha stood and approached Gabe. "A new face."

He shook her hand. "I'm Gabe. Alex and I have a class together."

"Wow, she can make friends on her own," Martha said.

Alexandra rolled her eyes.

"Thank you for making her get out of the house. She can be so serious," Martha said.

"No problem," Hannah said. "We love Alex."

They walked into her room and started doing her hair. Alexandra couldn't help but feel like they were in high school. Gabe sat on the bed and played a game on his phone, clearly bored.

When Hannah tried to apply pounds of makeup to Alexandra's face, Alex waved it away. "I don't like wearing a lot of makeup. It makes my face feel heavy."

"Oh, come on," Hannah said, pouting her lips.

"Just a little foundation and eyeliner," Alexandra said firmly.

"Fine." Hannah applied the makeup while Lisa curled her hair, making it full and wavy. Her hair had never been so big.

"You like it?" Lisa asked.

Alexandra didn't want to hurt her feelings. "It's great." It didn't look bad, but it wasn't how she'd do her hair. Now she hoped Blaise wouldn't be there to see her.

Gabe put his phone away and looked at her. "I think you look hot."

"Uh, thanks..."

"Looks like we're ready," Lisa said. "Let's leave."

Alexandra was nervous. She didn't like parties. They weren't right for her. When she told Blaise she was going, he didn't seem too excited about it either. She could tell he wasn't the kind of guy that went to parties very often. He probably judged her a little bit.

After they went by her friends' houses, they went to a cornfield in the middle of nowhere. Cars were piled along the side of the road but people were nowhere in sight.

"Where is it?" Alexandra asked.

"In the middle," Lisa explained. "That way cops can't see us."

"Oh," Alexandra said.

They walked through the stalks until they reached the center. There was a wide expanse full of barrel bonfires, ice chests, smoke, and people. Lots of people. Music was playing loudly, everyone was chatting to one another. Couples lurked in the shadows, kissing passionately. Alexandra had never been to a party like that. It was a culture shock.

The girls immediately started talking to people they recognized. Alexandra remained quiet, pretending to be interested. She felt the stares from guys that passed her by. She even caught Gabe looking at her a few times. But he turned away quickly like he hadn't been staring at her legs.

She decided to take a break and grab a beer from an ice chest. She dug inside until she pulled out a can.

"Are you the new girl?"

Alexandra looked up and saw a tall man staring her down. "Uh, I think so."

He nodded. "How are you liking it?" His hands were in his pockets but he was leaning close to her, his breath falling on her skin.

"It's nice," she said simply.

"Where are you from?"

"New York."

"Wow," he said. "So you're a city girl?"

"I guess." She shrugged. She wanted to get out of that conversation. The guy wasn't giving off a good vibe. He seemed a little drunk, slurring some of his words.

"Alexandra."

She turned and saw Blaise appear beside her. "Hi," she said excitedly, so happy to see him.

He smiled at her. "How are you?"

"Good. How are you?"

He nodded. "I'm really well." He turned to the guy. "Excuse us." He touched her elbow then steered her away.

She breathed a sigh of relief as they walked away. "Thank you so much."

He chuckled. "I won't let anyone bother you, Alexandra." He stopped walking and turned to stare at her. She didn't feel uncomfortable when he did it. "You look beautiful."

"Thanks." Her cheeks turned red.

"It's a nice color on you."

"Lisa and Hannah helped me pick it out."

"Are you close with Lisa?"

"I guess. She's one of my only friends."

He nodded. "Yeah, she's nice."

She held her beer in her hands, feeling the coldness sting her skin. They hadn't had a serious conversation since the day he kissed her on the forehead. Alexandra wasn't sure what was happening between them, if there was anything at all.

"Are you having fun?" he asked.

She shrugged. "I was forced to come. I don't like socializing with people I don't know and will probably never know."

"I don't care for it much either."

"Then why are you here?" she asked.

He stared into her eyes, saying nothing.

When Alexandra looked into his irises, she saw an ocean brighter than any other. His look was always serious, but a slight smile was on his lips when they were together. He seemed happy to be with her, amused. She could stare at him forever, and just fantasize about feeling his shoulders and chest. His arms had noticeable bicep muscles. She wanted to feel them.

"You said you were going to be here. I thought I should come too." He said it in a simple tone, like it was obvious. "You want to get out of here?"

Alexandra looked over at her friends. Lisa and Hannah were chatting in a group, laughing loudly. Gabe was talking to a girl in the corner. He was smiling like he was having a good time. She turned to him. "I'd love to."

"Good." He grabbed her hand and led her through the stalks. It was dark so she couldn't see where she was going. Blaise seemed to know exactly where he was headed. When they reached the main road, they walked past the cars until they saw his truck at the end. No one was around and the loud music faded into the background. The rustling of stalks in the wind and the sound of crickets filled the air.

Blaise opened his tailgate then grabbed her waist, lifting her and placing her in the back. He jumped up and sat beside her. "Is this better?"

She smiled. "Much better."

He rested his hands in his lap, looking down the road.

"How was your day?" she asked.

"Pretty uneventful," he said. "Just work."

"Has your uncle been giving you a hard time?"

"I haven't seen him," he said simply.

"Maybe he'll back off."

He laughed. "I wish."

"I'm sorry."

"It's okay," he whispered.

"Anything interesting to share?" Alexandra tried to be discreet as she stole glances of him.

He scratched his chin. "My counselor said if I only take one class a semester, I won't graduate for ten years."

She raised an eyebrow. "I didn't know you were in school."

"Because it's a secret," he said. "If people find out, they might assume I'm selling the company soon. The vultures would descend."

"What classes are you taking?"

"I'm pre-law, so I'm taking economics classes."

"That's really cool," she said.

He smiled at her. "You think so?"

"Of course I do."

"At least someone in my life is supportive."

"Friends always support each other."

He looked away, returning his gaze to the distance. "How's your new tech job?"

"Oh." She wasn't expecting that question. "It was—stressful."

"Tell me."

Alexandra told him the story from beginning to end.

Blaise was quiet for a moment. "How did you know any of that?"

"What do you mean?" she asked.

"How did you know how to read the IV, the chart, how to find his allergies, clean his wound, all of that?"

Alexandra felt cornered. She respected Blaise too much to lie to him. "Well, I have a degree in nursing."

His eyes widened. "Oh."

She looked away.

"Then why aren't you working as a nurse?"

Alexandra tucked a strand of hair behind her ear.

"You don't have to be nervous around me."

She looked at him, surprised he recognized the gesture. "I—I don't want to talk about it."

Blaise seemed hurt. "Okay."

Alexandra looked at her hands in her lap.

Blaise grabbed one and squeezed it.

The intimate touch made her heart accelerate, her palms sweat, and goose bumps appear on her arms. It was unexpected but welcomed at the same time. She felt the calluses of his fingertips, noting the rough patches.

"I'm here if you ever change your mind," he whispered.

"I know."

"I might be able to help you."

She shook her head. "No one can help me."

He didn't pull his hand away, keeping it locked with hers.

She loved the touch. His skin radiated warmth like a beacon. She felt like she was sitting under the sun on a tropical beach. "You're always warm."

"I know," he said with a sigh. "It's why I hate summer so much."

"I love it. The hotter, the better."

He eyed her clothes. "I like it when you wear a dress."

"It doesn't happen very often."

"I hope that changes," he said simply. He scooted closer to her, his shoulder touching hers.

Alexandra knew there was something between them. She never held hands with her friends, looked at the stars with them in the back of a truck, or leaned close to them. But she didn't understand why Blaise hadn't acknowledged it. "What's going on?"

He turned to her. "What do you mean?"

"Do you like me?"

Blaise smiled. "Of course I do, Alexandra."

"So...what is this?" She glided her fingers over his knuckles.

He sighed. "Something..."

"Well, you haven't asked me out or anything. I wasn't sure what to think."

Blaise averted his gaze and was quiet for a long time. She couldn't tell what he was thinking. It was like he was debating something in his mind. "Will you go on a date with me tomorrow? There's somewhere I want to take you."

She smiled, her heart expanding at the question. "I would love to."

"Good," he said.

"So, are we together? I hate to be so up front, but I just want to make sure."

He stared at her. "I don't want you to see anyone else. And I have no interest in anyone but you." His eyes stared into hers, paralyzing her with their intensity.

"Good."

He smiled at her, the light brightening in his eyes.

She immediately thought of her friends. If she was seeing Blaise, she should probably tell them, but she didn't want to, especially because of Gabe. She suspected he still had feelings for her. "I know this is going to sound bad, but can we...keep this a secret?"

His eyes narrowed. "Why?"

"Well, Gabe asked me out last week and I told him I wasn't interested in dating anyone. And if he knew I was dating you, it would seem like I was lying. And I wasn't. That's how I really felt at the time."

His voice turned cold. "He asked you out?"

"Yeah."

"Does he bother you?"

"No," she said. "It happened once and we moved on. But he's still my friend. If you feel uncomfortable, we don't have to keep it a secret. I'll understand if that's unacceptable to you."

He shook his head. "No, that's fine."

"Are you sure?"

"Really, it's fine."

"Okay."

He stared at her. "Why did you tell him you weren't interested in dating anyone?"

"Because I wasn't."

"Any specific reason why?" He stared her down.

"Well, I recently got out of a relationship. I didn't think I'd like anyone for a while."

"But you like me?"

"A lot," she said. "From the moment I saw you. It feels like you've been my closest friend for a long time...not just a few weeks. I can't explain."

"You don't need to explain," he said. "Because I feel what you feel."

She squeezed his hand and smiled.

"What happened with this guy?"

She struggled to find the right words but nothing came out.

"You don't have to tell me if you don't want to, but you can't hoard all your secrets forever."

Alexandra nodded. "We were together for a while, but...our relationship had a few bumps in the road. I was distant with him because I needed my space and time to think. He started spending time with someone else and cheated on me."

He nodded. "I'm sorry."

She shrugged. "He betrayed me. I had to end it."

"Is that why you came here? To get over him?"

"Partially."

"What was the other reason?"

"That's a secret I'd like to keep," she whispered.

"Okay." He leaned in and kissed her forehead.

She took a deep breath when his lips touched her. It ignited her body in sparks, making her light on fire.

He stared at her. "Does it bother you when I do that?"

"Not at all," she said quickly.

Blaise leaned closer to her. "So, are you over this guy?"

"I think so. Knowing he slept with someone else changed everything," she said. "But he was my first serious relationship. I guess I'll always feel a certain way about him."

He nodded. "I just want you all to myself."

"You have me."

"I like that answer." He leaned close to her, his nose touching hers. "Have you told Martha about us?"

"No."

"Can we keep it a secret from her too?" he asked.

"Why?"

"She knows everyone in this town. Word would spread like a wildfire."

"You have a point." She stared at his lips, which were close to hers. She felt her mouth open slightly, inviting him to kiss her.

Blaise didn't move in. He continued to stare at her, indecision in his eyes.

Alexandra felt a surge of emotions explode inside her. Every time she was with Blaise, she felt safe. Her attraction to him was in the forefront of her mind, mixed with her respect and awe for him. She knew she couldn't move on from Paul so quickly unless the next guy was the real deal. In the short amount of time she knew Blaise, her feelings had grown exponentially, reaching a critical level. It was so powerful, it hurt her heart. She wanted more of him, all of him. She grabbed him by the shirt and pulled his lips to hers, feeling his soft mouth against her own. Before she could enjoy the moment, she heard the movement of the cornstalks. She pulled away, breaking their embrace.

Gabe emerged from the field, searching in the darkness. When he saw Alexandra, he marched toward her. "I've been looking everywhere for you."

"Oh," she said, feeling flustered. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to worry you."

Gabe looked at Blaise, annoyance in his eyes. "Is he keeping you out here?"

Blaise hopped down from the tailgate. "No, I'm not. She isn't feeing well so I'm taking her home."

Gabe ignored him. "Are you all right?"

Alexandra dropped to her feet. "I'm fine, Gabe. But I'm going to let Blaise take me home. Thank you for checking on me though."

Gabe grabbed her by the arm. "I can take you home."

Blaise pushed him back so hard, Gabe fell to the ground. "Don't fucking touch her like that."

Alexandra stared at Blaise. "Calm down."

Gabe got to his feet, a look of murder in his eyes.

Alexandra walked to him. "I'll see you later, okay?"

He was breathing heavily. "Are you sure?"

"I'm fine."

"You don't even know this guy."

"I know Blaise really well," Alexandra said. "He's a family friend. He's been working on our fields every morning. I'm fine, really."

"And I don't cause fights very often," Blaise said. "Only when people grab my friends like that." The venom in his voice was frightening.

Gabe stepped away. "Call me if you need me, Alex."

"Okay," she said.

When Gabe disappeared into the cornstalks, Alexandra turned to Blaise. "What was that?"

"I didn't like the way he grabbed you," he said simply. "It was in a possessive way. Only I can grab you that way."

"Excuse me?"

"I didn't mean it like that," he said with a sigh. "It just rubbed me the wrong way. I'm sorry." He walked to the passenger door and opened it for her. "Let me take you home."

She looked at him and crawled into the passenger seat. He joined her, then drove to her aunt's house on the other side of town.

Blaise kept glancing at her. "I said I was sorry."

"I know."

He sighed. "I'll apologize to him next time I see him."

"Thank you," she said. "He's one of the only friends I have. And he's been nothing but nice to me."

"I bet he has," he said sarcastically.

"Don't be jealous."

"It's hard not to."

"I said no, didn't I?"

He stared straight ahead, his hands gripping the wheel.

When they reached the house, he killed the engine. They were quiet.

"Thank you for taking me home," she whispered.

"I know you'd rather be here anyway," he said with a smile.

"You rescued me."

"Or I kidnapped you."

"Same thing."

He got out of the car and walked her to the door. "You really do look beautiful in that dress."

She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. "Thank you."

"And I'm glad I make you nervous."

Her cheeks turned red.

He came closer to her, pressing his forehead against hers. His hands moved to her lower back, squeezing her gently.

Alexandra felt her breathing increase. The chemistry between them was explosive. Just the quick touch of their lips made her body shake. She wanted to do it again, to feel a real kiss. She waited for him to make a move.

He cupped her face then kissed her on the forehead. She closed her eyes when she felt him kiss her. The touch was intimate and loving. A simple kiss had never felt so explosive. The more he treated her like a lady, the more she wanted him to stop. She wanted him to kiss her passionately, claim her mouth with his own. But Blaise never did.

"Sleep in tomorrow."

"These are my fields. I have to help."

"Spend that time getting ready for the day," he said. "We'll leave after I shower."

"Where are we going?"

He smiled. "It's a surprise. But you should wear a dress. I like these."

"So I've heard..."

"I'll see you in a few hours."

"I look forward to it," she whispered.

He stepped back, pulling his hands to his sides. She felt cold when he moved away. "Now go inside."

She sighed sadly, then walked into the house. Her aunt was in the kitchen, reading a book. The window was open so Alexandra wondered if her aunt had been watching them. But Alexandra was certain she would have said something if she had. She looked out the window and watched Blaise drive away.

"How was your party?" Martha asked.

"It was okay."

She turned the page. "At least you're socializing."

"Yeah..."

Her aunt drank from her water, her eyes glued to the page.

"Well, good night."

"Good night, dear."
Chapter Seventeen

When Blaise came home, he banged on Danielle's door.

She opened it, wearing one of his old t-shirts. "What's wrong?" she asked immediately.

He stared at her. "I know I promised I would keep all this a secret, but I need to break that promise."

Her eyes widened. "What are you talking about?"

"There's this girl...I want to tell her so she knows there's nothing going on between us."

Danielle glared at him. "Absolutely not."

"Why not?"

"I'm sure your bimbo will tell anyone that'll listen. Evan will know I'm here and he'll know we aren't together anymore. You know what that makes me? Dead. And you don't need to tell her anything if you're just sleeping with her." Her eyes saddened as she looked at him, the jealousy evident.

"It's not like that," he said. "I really like her and I want this to go somewhere. I shouldn't have asked her out until I figured out how to fix this situation, but the damage is done. Please let me tell her."

"No."

He clenched his fists. "I'm telling her anyway."

"Fine," she said. "But I'll deny all of it. And to make it worse, I'll tell everyone we're still together. You'll look like a cheating asshole."

His eyes lit up in flames. "You fucking bitch. I'll throw you out right now."

She put her hands on her hips and stared him down. "Do it. I dare you."

Blaise took a deep breath.

"Kick me out. We'll see how long it takes until he tracks me down. And when I'm lying in the hospital, broken or dead, you can thank yourself for that. You can watch my mother cry over me and all my friends stare at you with hatred."

Blaise punched the wall, bruising his knuckles. He couldn't let anything happen to Danielle, or any girl. It violated his code of ethics. Hurting an innocent woman was unforgivable. He couldn't be so selfish by abandoning her.

"That's what I thought."

He gripped his hair in frustration. "So it's official. You never loved me? You've been using me this entire time?"

Danielle's eyes sagged. "No, absolutely not."

He shook his head.

"Blaise, I love you. We should get back together. I'm sorry that I've been a nuisance to you, but I can change. We already live together. Let's make it work."

"I'm not going to love the one I'm with," he snapped.

"If you go after anyone else, it's just going to be complicated."

"No, it won't," he said. "I'll figure out a way to move on while protecting you at the same time."

She crossed her arms over her chest. "Do you have any ideas?"

"Yes. I could just tell her the truth and she would understand. If she loved me, she'd work it out with me."

"Well, I don't want anyone to know. It's my life on the line. I can't trust someone I don't know."

"Then you can meet her," he said.

She glared at him. "I have no interest in meeting one of your bimbos."

"She's not a bimbo! She's an amazing girl."

Danielle rolled her eyes. "I'm sorry, Blaise. But I won't change my mind."

"I'll just throw you out then."

She walked back into her bedroom. "I'm calling your bluff, Blaise." She shut the door.

Blaise punched the wall again. "Fuck." He walked into his bedroom then lay on the bed, thinking of Alexandra.

At least she wanted to keep their relationship a secret. That made things a lot easier for him. If Lisa knew they were dating, she would tell Alexandra everything about him, how he knocked up Danielle and asked her to move in. Everyone in town thought they were still together. He definitely didn't want Alexandra to think that.

He never wanted to kiss someone so much before. And when she leaned in to kiss him, his breath left his lungs. They burned from her loving kiss. The softness of her lips made him want to devour her. He never felt so hot for someone. He was just as infatuated with her beauty as her heart. She was beautiful on the inside as well as the outside. He was a little disappointed to listen to the story about her ex, but she was here to stay. And he would claim her as his own. As far as he was concerned, she was his. He already lost his temper when he proved it to Gabe.

There was a loud knock on his door, and he groaned when he heard it. He got out of bed then opened the front door. Cole was on the other side, his arms crossed over his chest.

"Why are you here so late?" Blaise blurted.

"John's been bugging me to visit you."

He rolled his eyes. "I told you not to talk to him."

"Well, when he follows me everywhere I go, I can only do so much." He walked inside then looked at his brother. "I think you should do the deal."

"Well, I'm not going to. This can't be negotiated."

"Do you have any idea how much money is involved?"

"Who gives a damn?" Blaise said. "We have plenty of money. We don't need any more."

"More money wouldn't be the worst thing in the world."

Danielle came down the hall, wearing a nightshirt. Her thighs were showing. "What are you arguing about?"

"Leave us," Blaise snapped.

She rolled her eyes and walked away.

"When's the wedding?" Cole asked with a smile.

"Shut the fuck up," he snapped.

Cole put his hands in his pockets. "So, are you going to do it?"

"What?"

"The deal," he said.

"I just said no," he snapped.

"Come on, man."

Blaise wanted to explode. "I only have you as a partner on paper because I pity you, but you don't contribute anything to this company—at all. You have no weight to make business decisions. That's final."

"Well, that isn't fair."

"Really?" Blaise said. "Start carrying your own weight and I'll consider it. Right now, you get free money every month."

"I'm just trying to help."

"You're just trying to stuff more money into your wallet," Blaise said. "Believe me, money doesn't mean everything."

"Whatever." He sighed.

"Can you get the fuck out of my house now?"

"Is Danielle not putting out or something?"

"I haven't fucked her in months," Blaise said. "And that's beside the point. I'm pissed at you right now."

Cole turned toward the door. "Call me when you aren't being such an asshole."

"Then don't expect me to call at all."

Cole slammed the door behind him.

Blaise went back to bed, angrier than he was minutes ago. His beautiful night with Alexandra had been ruined. He hoped tomorrow would be a better day, not one tainted by his ex or his family drama. Just one beautiful day was all he wanted.
Chapter Eighteen

Alexandra slept in the next morning and got ready for their date. She found a yellow dress and kept her hair down, trying to look pretty for him. She didn't spend a lot of time in front of the mirror, but she made an effort.

When she walked outside, Blaise was waiting for her.

He stared at her, approval in his eyes. "I like it. You remind me of a spring flower."

"I'll take that as a compliment." She came to him and wrapped her arms around his neck. He immediately picked her up, smiling. Happiness controlled her actions, and she leaned in and kissed him gently. Blaise squeezed her as he returned her affection.

He lowered her to the ground. "That was a wonderful start to our date." He grabbed her hand and helped her get into the passenger seat.

When they drove out to the road, Blaise rested his hand on her thigh. Alexandra covered it with her palm, caressing his knuckles with her fingers.

"Where are we going?" she asked.

"It's a surprise," he said with a smile.

She looked out the back window, seeing his dog standing in the bed. "Did Kane help you plan this?"

"It was his idea. He's the mastermind behind everything."

"Maybe I should go on a date with him."

He laughed. "I'd be extremely jealous."

"He is pretty cute."

"Hey," he said. "I'll have to beat him up."

"I got my money on Kane."

He squeezed her fingers. "You're adorable, Alexandra."

She blushed.

They drove down a deserted road then moved into the forest. The trees blocked the heat of the summer sun. Blaise stopped the truck and killed the engine.

"It's beautiful here."

"I think you'll like it." Blaise got out of the truck and opened the tailgate. He grabbed a blanket and backpack. Kane jumped out and started to sniff the area.

"I can carry the blanket."

"I'm good," he said quickly. "This way."

She walked alongside him a few feet into the forest. He moved to the left until he reached an open field. Wildflowers grew from the dirt. Trees surrounded the clearing, giving them a few patches of shade. "Wow," she said. "This is so cool."

He smiled then set everything down. He opened his backpack and dispersed some food on the blanket.

"You made lunch?" she asked.

"I can do more than plant cotton."

"Apparently." She grabbed a sandwich and dug in.

Blaise put a few tennis balls on the blanket. Kane nudged one with his nose, begging Blaise to throw it.

"That is so cute," Alexandra said. She grabbed the ball and threw it across the clearing. Kane chased after it.

"Don't say that," Blaise said. "It'll go to his head."

"I'm sure it already has."

Blaise finished his sandwich and looked at Alexandra. "Did you like your food?"

"It was wonderful."

"There's more if you're still hungry."

"No, thank you."

He lay back and looked into the canopy of trees. She lay beside him and studied the leaves. The glade was peaceful and quiet. The sound of rustling leaves flittered to their ears. Kane chewed on his ball while he lay beside the blanket.

Blaise grabbed her hand and held it on his stomach.

Alexandra noticed how hard it was, like a concrete wall.

"My dad and I used to come here to shoot."

She turned to him. "You used to hunt?"

"No," he said quickly. "Just target practice. It was something just my dad and I shared. My brother never wanted to come."

"I'm honored you brought me here," she said quietly.

"It's like your loft. I come here to hide."

"Are you trying to hide right now?"

"Yes," he said. "I like hiding with you."

She turned on her side and hugged his waist, pressing her face close to his. His breathing picked up as she touched him. "I like hiding with you too."

He glided his fingers through her hair, feeling the soft strands. "You're so beautiful," he blurted.

She blushed. "I think you're beautiful too."

He smiled. "There's no comparison, Alexandra."

"You're the only person who calls me that," she whispered.

"And I'll be the only one who ever does," he said with confidence.

When he stared into her eyes, she felt like she was home. Everything else in the world didn't matter. It was just the two of them. She knew Blaise wouldn't just be another person that left her life as quickly as he came. He was special, someone who was already in her heart. And if she wanted to keep him there, she had to give it all to him. "My first year working as a nurse, I came onto the nightshift like any other day."

He stared at her while she spoke, realizing she was opening up to him.

"The patient was a drug seeker. He'd been in the emergency room ten times that year, trying to get a prescription for pain meds. Everyone knew why he was there and what he wanted. As soon as I walked in, he said he was in pain, writhing on the bed. I assumed it was all an act. I walked out and ignored him, attending to the patients who legitimately needed help. But he kept crying and moaning, delirious with pain. I walked in and looked at his catheter bag. It was full of blood." She swallowed the lump in her throat, remembering the incident clearly. "The nurse from the previous shift inserted the catheter incorrectly. She enlarged the bladder balloon when it was still in his urethra. As a result, it completely destroyed the organ, making him bleed internally. By the time I realized what happened, it was too late. He died in surgery." She felt the tears bubble under her eyes. "It was all my fault. If I had just listened to him, I would have caught it."

He leaned over her and cupped her face. Blaise kissed the moisture around her eyes. "It wasn't your fault, Alexandra."

"He died because I didn't do my job right."

"It was an honest mistake," he whispered. "And you didn't put the catheter in. You didn't make the killing blow."

"But if I—"

"Alexandra," he said gently. "It wasn't your fault. You behaved just as anyone else would. It's the typical boy-who-cried-wolf story. If he hadn't lied and said he was in pain so many times, you would have taken him seriously when he really was."

"That doesn't mean he deserved to die." She tried to control her tears but they continued to fall.

"No, it doesn't. But that also doesn't mean you're responsible for his death."

"Then why do I feel so horrible?" She sniffed.

"Because you're compassionate, caring, and amazing. You care. Most people don't."

She pulled him into a hug and held him tightly. His body felt protective when it lay next to hers. She closed her eyes and tried to control her racing heart.

"You shouldn't let this ruin your career, Alexandra. You're a good nurse."

She shook her head. "I don't trust myself."

"You just saved someone's life the other day."

"That doesn't vindicate my earlier mistake."

He pulled away then kissed her tears. "Forgive yourself, Alexandra. You're too young to carry such grief."

Alexandra took a deep breath and tried to calm her mind.

"I'm very honored you shared that with me."

"You're my best friend," she whispered.

He smiled. "You're my best friend too." He pulled her to his chest and snuggled beside her, his hand running through her hair to calm her.

"I couldn't live there anymore," she said quietly. "Everything was too much. I wanted to get away from Paul, from what I did. I just ran without looking back."

"Does everyone know where you are?"

"Only my sister."

"You didn't tell anyone where you went?"

She shook her head.

"You should tell them, Alexandra. I'm sure they're all worried, especially Paul."

"If I tell him where I am, he'll come after me. And I texted him the other day and said I was safe. That's all I can do."

He stared at her face, still running his fingers through her hair. "I don't think you should have run away from your life in New York. But I'm really glad you came here."

She smiled through her tears. "I am too."

"And you've become my favorite apprentice."

She laughed. "I'm the worst farmer ever."

"No, you aren't. You're learning."

"Very slowly."

"That's okay," he said with a smile. "Your motivation is admirable."

"Well, I'd do anything for Martha."

"And that's one of the reasons I fell for you."

"What are the other reasons?" She ran her hand down his chest, feeling his strength.

"Well, the first reason is I think you're really cute. Well, more like extremely gorgeous. Call me superficial, but that's the first thing I noticed." She didn't judge him for the comment. She thought the same thing. "The second reason was because of your humbleness. You're the prettiest girl I've ever seen, but you don't put on pounds of makeup or worry about your hair. You're real. You're smart—too smart for your own good. You're compassionate, putting everyone before yourself. And that smile—it kills me every time."

"I wasn't sure if you even liked me."

"Believe me, I did."

"Then why were you so distant?"

The light in his eyes disappeared. "It just wasn't the right time." He averted his gaze. She thought there was more to the story but she didn't press him. He never pressured her to spill her secrets and she would do the same for him.

She stared at him while they lay under the trees, letting the slight breeze take their stress away. He held her gaze with love and adoration in his eyes. The world became silent as they got lost in each other.

Blaise kept glancing at her lips, appraising them.

Alexandra wanted him to kiss her. She made the move last time, so it was his turn.

Blaise looked conflicted. He sighed. "Fuck it." He grabbed her face and pressed his mouth against hers.

The passion in his touch burned her lips. His lips caressed hers, stealing her breath away. His hand cupped her cheek, deepening the kiss. She was winded by the immediate fire that sparked to life. His tongue slipped into her mouth, lightly touching hers. She moaned when she felt him, never feeling a passionate kiss like that.

Blaise moved on top of her, his hand sliding up her leg. His lips moved with precision, making love to her mouth with perfect touches. He made her gasp over and over. She wasn't ashamed by her obvious enthusiasm. He blew her mind and she wanted him to know it. He pulled away and rubbed his nose against hers, giving her a second to recover from the electricity coursing through her veins.

She grabbed his face and kissed him again, her leg wrapped around his. Her hands explored his body, feeling the shoulders she admired so much. They were broad and strong, defined from years working the fields. When she moved down his back, she felt the lines of muscle. He was strong and powerful, sculpted from solid stone. She and Paul had a strong sexual attraction but it was nothing compared to this. She was burning from the inside out. She wanted more, but he already gave her everything he had. When he moved against her, she felt the bulge in the front of his pants. She was astounded by his obvious size. She was already hot for him, and her infatuation only grew.

Alexandra rolled on top of him, leaning over him. When she looked down, she saw desire in his eyes. He ran his fingers through her hair then pulled it away, revealing her face. She leaned down and kissed him again, taking the lead.

Blaise trembled underneath her touch. His hands moved into her hair wildly then down her slender back, feeling her petite frame. He grabbed her hips, holding her to him.

She pulled away then rubbed her nose against his, teasing him.

"Mmm," he said. "You're an amazing kisser."

"I was going to say the same about you."

"I'm not even done." He rolled her to the ground and moved on top of her, dominating her. His mouth sealed over hers, his tongue touching hers. When he kissed her neck, she dug her fingers into his hair, moaning quietly. He moved between her legs then leaned over her. "I could kiss you all day."

"It looks like we have a common hobby."

He grabbed her face and kissed her again. The sun set over the horizon, turning the forest dark. Alexandra didn't want their make out session to end, but she knew they had to leave soon.

Blaise stayed on top of her when he broke their kiss. "I should take you home."

"Let's go to the loft," she blurted.

He rubbed his nose against hers. "That sounds like a good idea."

"Let's go."

He moved off her then kept his gaze averted so he wouldn't see up her dress. They packed everything and threw it in the back of the truck. Kane jumped inside before they shut the tailgate.

Alex sat in the seat directly next to Blaise, kissing his neck while he drove home. She didn't want to stop kissing him. The taste of his skin set her on fire. She wanted to feel him everywhere, to know him in an intimate way. Her hand ran up his chest while she nibbled his ear.

Blaise moaned. His breathing was deep and heavy, the bulge in his pants unable to be hidden. "Damn, Alexandra."

"You should drive faster," she whispered into his ear.

"Not if I don't want to kill us," he said with a moan.

She lightly blew into his ear.

"You're so fucking sexy, Alexandra."

She chuckled quietly. "I guess you should hurry."

Blaise parked the truck in front of the warehouse and practically jumped out. He took her hand as they walked inside. When they reached the ladder, he went first so he wouldn't see up her dress. After she reached the loft, he pushed her down and climbed on top of her, continuing their make out session. It was dark in the warehouse, hiding most of their bodies from view. The stars started to appear through the wooden boards.

Every moan Blaise made when she kissed him sent her to the brink. Her hands glided through his hair, totally out of control. She clutched him tightly, never wanting to let go. Her nails dug into his skin harder than she meant. She hadn't kissed anyone like that since high school and she enjoyed it immensely. Blaise was special to her, someone she never expected to find. Now she knew she was meant to come here, to find the person that was waiting for her. Blaise was the one for her.

Blaise pulled away then rubbed his nose against hers. He was out of breath, hot and heavy. His hand cupped her cheek as he pressed his forehead against hers. "I need Chapstick."

She laughed. "I do too."

He kissed her forehead. "Alexandra, you're amazing."

"You are too."

He lay on his back and pulled her to his chest. "I've never kissed anyone like that."

"Neither have I."

He ran his fingers through her hair, his heart starting to slow.

Alexandra wrapped her arm around his waist, hugging him. She stared at the stars through the crack of the wall, seeing them shine bright. They were too tired to leave the loft. And neither one wanted to anyway. The warmth of his arms lulled her to sleep. The last thing she thought about before she fell asleep was Blaise, the star in her sky.
Chapter Nineteen

Blaise woke up just as the sun rose. His internal clock never allowed him to sleep in. He had work to do.

Alexandra was asleep in his arms. She curled around him, holding him tightly. He never saw anything more beautiful. He could lay there all day, just watching her sleep. Blaise kissed her forehead before he climbed down the ladder and headed toward his truck. Kane was sleeping with the other dogs on the porch, snoring quietly. When he turned to the field, he saw Martha sitting on the porch, staring him down. She didn't look happy.

Blaise walked up the stairs and approached her.

She sat in the rocking chair, as still as a statue. The hard look in her eyes showed her anger and disappointment. "Have a good time?"

He kept his hands by his sides. "Alexandra is in the loft."

"Yeah, I connected the dots," she snapped. "I love you like my own family, Blaise. But that doesn't change anything. You mess with my niece, you mess with me and every shotgun I own."

"I don't understand where this hostility is coming from," he said simply. "I care about Alexandra deeply."

"The last time I checked, you were living with your girlfriend, the woman who was carrying your child at one point."

Blaise sighed, knowing this wasn't going to be good. "We've been broken up for months."

"And now she's just a roommate? Are you tight on money?" she said sarcastically.

"It's complicated...but we haven't been together in months. I swear on my father's grave."

"You really shouldn't disrespect him in such a way."

"I just want to assuage any doubt you may have about my intentions with Alexandra."

"Does she know?"

He averted his gaze. "No..."

Martha looked even angrier. "So you bed my niece without telling her the truth? You're lucky my gun is in the house."

"I didn't sleep with her," he said quickly. "She and I kissed—that's it. I would never do that to her. I'm trying to figure out how to...solve my problem with Danielle. But it's an ordeal."

"Just ask her to move out," Martha said. "It doesn't sound that difficult."

"Martha, you know me better than anyone, since I was a little boy. I'm honest, loyal, and caring. Please just trust me on this. I can't explain what's going on, but I promise that I'm figuring it out."

Martha rubbed her chin with her fingers, lost in thought. "I have to tell her, Blaise."

His eyes widened. "Please don't."

"She deserves to know what she's getting into. I'm sorry."

He sighed. "Please trust me."

Martha looked conflicted. "When will you tell her?"

"I don't know..."

"I can't wait that long," she said. "My niece, the child I love like my own daughter, is already falling too deep. I can't let her get hurt."

"I thought you trusted me?"

She stared at him.

"I promise I'm not doing anything I shouldn't be doing. I intend to tell Alexandra everything. Please let me handle it this way. I really care about her, and want to be in a serious relationship with her."

Martha looked across the field, watching the sun rise over the horizon. "Do I have your word?"

"Yes, I promise I'll tell her."

"And you and Danielle are really over?"

"Yes."

"I have your word?" she repeated.

"You have my word," he said as he looked her in the eye.

"I'll be watching you, Blaise."

"I know."

She rose from her chair and walked inside. He stayed on the porch and stared at the warehouse, knowing Alexandra was still asleep. The greatest gem had come into his life, brightening the sky and the stars, but it had come at the worst time. If only Danielle hadn't been such a pain in his ass this would have been different. Or better yet, he should have controlled himself and not given into his weakness. He should have pushed her away until he figured out how to get rid of Danielle while protecting her at the same time. Then he could have made his move. But it was too late now. He made his mistake and he had to live with it. He just hoped Alexandra would be as trusting as he assumed she would be. His happiness depended on it.

He went into the field and worked for the day. Alexandra didn't join him, so he assumed she was still asleep. When she finally arrived, she yawned.

"Are you already done?" she asked.

He smiled. "Well, that's a coincidence. You show up as soon as I'm finished."

She hit him lightly on the shoulder. "You know I always want to help."

He pulled her to his chest and kissed her despite the sweat covering his body. "I had a great time yesterday."

"I did too," she said. "Can I see you tonight?"

"I have some work to do. How about on Tuesday?"

"Sure," she said. "So when am I going to see your place? I don't even know where you live."

His heart hammered in his chest. "I'll have you over for dinner soon."

"And you live alone, right?"

He felt cornered. "It used to belong to my parents." That didn't answer the question, but it wasn't a lie either.

"Well, I'm not sure when I'll have my own place," she said. "And my aunt is always here...it would be nice to go somewhere more private."

His cock hardened at her words. He wasn't sure what she was implying specifically, but he knew he would like whatever she had in mind. "Yeah..."

She wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him again. "I'll see you later then."

"Okay." He watched her walk into the house.

She turned around and waved at him, a big smile on her face, one just for him. His heart squeezed when he watched her go. He got into his truck and drove home. He sat in his truck for a while, knowing he had to figure out a plan today, not tomorrow, not next week. He would feel uncomfortable if Alexandra lived with her ex-boyfriend. It would keep him up late into the night, panicked and anxious at all times.

He walked inside, his determination set into his bones. Danielle was sitting on the couch, crying into a tissue. It seemed like she always crying. "Danielle, we need to talk."

She blew into the tissue, sobbing. "Where were you last night?"

Now he knew why she was crying. "With my girlfriend."

She covered her face.

"Danielle, I don't say this to hurt you, but I really care about this girl...I think I love her."

She sniffed.

"I need you to leave and find some other way of being protected. We can work something out. But I won't sacrifice my happiness and let this situation continue. There has to be a way where we can both get what we want."

Danielle said nothing. She wiped her tears away. "My mom got in a car accident last night. I just came home to change."

His eyes widened. "What?"

She nodded. "She's in critical condition. A semi hit her, totally destroyed her car." She took a deep breath. "She broke her leg and her arm. She's in surgery now."

Danielle had made up crazy stories before, usually so he wouldn't leave her, but he knew she was telling the truth. "I'm so sorry."

"I should get going." She stood up then grabbed her purse.

"Danielle, I'm sorry this happened to you, but we still need to sort this out."

"Are you fucking kidding me right now?" she snapped. "What the fuck is wrong with you? My mom might die."

He knew that was a selfish thing to say. "I'm sorry, I'm sorry."

"I'm sorry I'm ruining your relationship with this tramp, but I have other things to worry about besides figuring out how to stay safe from Evan. Thanks for being so sensitive about it."

"I'll pay for you to get a hotel and bodyguard and I'll move everything for you."

She slapped him across the face. "You really are unbelievable." Danielle stormed out and slammed the door behind her.

Blaise felt the sting on his face. It didn't hurt, but he was annoyed with the abuse anyway. He gripped his hair and sighed in frustration, unsure what to do.
Chapter Twenty

After Alexandra finished her classes, she went to the library with Gabe. He was quiet, not talkative like he normally was. Alexandra was on cloud nine, blissfully happy with Blaise.

She looked at Gabe, seeing the tension on his face. "Is everything okay?"

"Is something going on between you and Blaise?"

She tried to keep a straight face. "No."

"Good."

"Do you not like him?"

He stared at her. "Did you see him push me to the ground?"

"He'd been drinking..."

"No, I don't like him. But if you aren't dating him, I don't care. I know he's close with your aunt."

She looked at her textbook, avoiding his gaze.

Hannah joined them a minute later. "What happened to you?" she asked Alexandra.

"What do you mean?"

"You totally bailed on the cornfield party."

"Oh," Alexandra said. "I wasn't feeling well. Too much beer."

"Well, you missed out," Hannah said.

"There will be other parties," Alexandra said.

Hannah turned to Gabe. "Did you hear about the accident on Main Road? A semi-truck totally destroyed a car."

Alexandra felt alarmed. "Is everyone okay?"

"The truck driver is fine but the driver of the car is in serious condition. No one knows anything."

"Wow," Gabe said. "That doesn't sound good."

"I'm glad I didn't work last night," Alexandra said.

Hannah took out her physics book and turned the page. "I need your brain."

"Sure."

Hannah went over her notes and asked Alexandra to help with a few problems. Alexandra had to review a few of the concepts before she could recall how to complete the problems. She never liked the subject but she couldn't deny how applicable the discipline was. Physics affected everything, even if it wasn't obvious.

After she finished her classes that day, she went to work at the hospital. She was lucky to pick up an extra shift for some desperate cash. Everyone was talking about the accident. Some of the nurses had been there when it happened. It sounded truly horrifying. The trauma was so intense they just flew the patient out to a larger hospital. Alexandra was shocked something so horrific had happened. It was truly disturbing.

She got to work and put in an order for a chart. Alexandra saw that the patient had pneumonia and a single-view chest x-ray had been ordered. She thought that was odd. Three-view x-rays were usually ordered to get a bilateral view of the lungs. It was more accurate that way. In New York, the order was almost automatic. She walked into the doctor's office and saw Dr. Kenley sitting at his computer.

"Hello, sir," she said.

He turned to her. "Alex, how are you?"

"I'm good. I just had a question about this order."

He looked at the chart. "Yes?"

"Do you want to change this x-ray to a three-view?"

"Portable chest x-rays are easier. Radiology can come to the patient."

That didn't make any sense to Alexandra. Medicine was about doing the right thing, not the convenient thing. "But wouldn't a three-view be more conclusive? If the patient has minor pneumonia, it may not show up."

He leaned back in his chair and glared at her. "So you catch one thing in the ER and now you're an expert?"

Alexandra was taken aback by the venom in his voice. "No, I..."

"I spent eight years in medical school. You didn't. Just because you're a tech doesn't mean you know anything. You change bedpans and sheets, not challenge my orders."

"I'm not trying to challenge you," she argued. "I'm trying to do what's best for the patient."

"Get out of my office." He turned back to his computer, ignoring her.

Alexandra didn't understand how the conversation got out of hand. She was just trying to help. She went back to her desk and sat down. After a moment of deliberation, she put the order in.

An hour passed before the radiology department took the x-ray in the patient's room. Alexandra waited for the radiologist to read the shot. It said the patient didn't have pneumonia. Alexandra wasn't convinced. When she looked at the chart, she saw the elevated white blood cell levels indicated an infection. She borrowed an extra stethoscope from the supply cart and walked into the patient's room. She listened to the patient breathe and knew there was something wrong. The patient didn't have a history with smoking, asthma, or breathing problems. She walked back to her desk and thought to herself.

A moment later, the doctor handed her the chart without looking at her then walked away. It was discharge papers, sending the patient home. Alexandra was shocked when she saw it. The patient was clearly sick. She didn't understand what was happening.

"What's wrong?" Suzie asked.

Alexandra sighed. "Has Dr. Kenley worked here long?"

"For a few years. Why?"

"Is he a good physician?"

She shrugged. "I think so. He was the doctor who attended the wreck last night. He hasn't even gone home for the day."

Alexandra nodded. Now she understood his actions. He was in a hurry to go home, not that it justified the corners he cut. She took a deep breath and approached the charge nurse.

"Hey, Alex," she said with a smile.

The charge nurse had become fond of her since last week. Alexandra hoped this would make the situation easier. "I'm a little concerned about this patient."

Betty took the chart and looked through it. "The patient is going home. It seems to be in order."

"Well, Dr. Kenley ordered a one-view chest x-ray. I advised him to order a three-view so he could see the bilateral image. He said no." She kept his rudeness out of it. "And now he's sending the patient home even though the blood work suggests there's an infection."

Betty nodded. "Well, everyone is different. Due to the age of the patient, the CBC levels may always be high."

"But I checked the lab work from the last time he was here. His white blood count was totally normal. And I went into the patient room and listened to his lungs. There's a loud cracking in each one. I think the patient has pneumonia but Dr. Kenley didn't assess it in his physical exam."

Betty stared at her. "I'll check." She grabbed her stethoscope and walked into the room. Alexandra patiently waited. When Betty returned, she looked at the chart again and sighed. "I think you're right, Alexandra. Dr. Kenley has been working for twenty-four hours straight. I think his mind needs a break."

Alexandra didn't think that was an excuse, but she held her tongue. In nursing school, she had class all day before she went to clinical at night, only to have class again in the morning. Being tired wasn't an excuse to her.

Betty walked away. Alexandra returned to her chair and waited for Betty to emerge from the physician room. A few moments later, Betty emerged with the chart. She handed it to Alexandra. "Order the three-view."

Alexandra smiled. "I'm on it."

Dr. Kenley walked by a moment later, notably glaring at her. She heard him mumble something as he passed but didn't catch it. She didn't want to make enemies at work. She always thought of the medical field as a team victory, but that clearly wasn't so. The south was much different than New York. Alexandra was still getting used to the culture shock. She sighed to herself, trying to forget about the drama she caused. She just wanted to do the right thing for the patient. It didn't matter if people didn't like her because of it.

When she got off work, it was late, almost midnight. She was depressed about her day at work and there was only one person she wanted to talk to. She turned on her cell phone, disregarded all the messages, and called Blaise.

"Alexandra." He always said her name in a special way, like it belonged to him. She liked hearing it.

"Hey."

"What's wrong?"

She was surprised he understood her emotions from a single word. "I had a bad day."

"Tell me about it."

"Can you come over?"

"Of course," he said. "Are you hungry?"

"Yeah."

"I'll bring something."

"Thanks."

"Do you need a ride?"

She sighed. "I really need to get a car."

"It's not like the big city," he said. "I'll be there soon."

"Okay." She hung up and stood in the parking lot, waiting for him to arrive.

After he picked her up, they drove back to her house. He placed his arm around her shoulders, and she rested her head against his chest. Nothing was said on the drive home. She just enjoyed being held by him. The simple touch made her stress more bearable.

They arrived at the house then walked into the warehouse.

"I got Mexican food," he said. "I hope you like burritos."

"Who doesn't like burritos?" she said with a smile. She walked up the ladder and he joined her a moment later. They opened the boxes and ate across from each other.

"So, what happened?" he asked.

She sighed then told him the whole story.

"Why is this a bad story?" he asked. "You handed his ass to him."

"It bothers me that he got so mad when I was just trying to help. He shouldn't care about his pride or going through patients like a pile of paperwork. He should care about the well-being of the patient, nothing else."

Blaise stared at her. "You should be a nurse, Alexandra. You were made to do it."

She shook her head. "Working as a tech and catching mistakes isn't the same thing as being a nurse."

He sighed. "Baby, you're a great nurse. If anything, being a tech is a disservice to the people. You should be pushing the meds, not making phone calls and putting in orders."

"I don't want to talk about this anymore." She picked at her food then pushed it aside.

"You know I would never lie to you to make you feel better."

She didn't look at him. "I know."

"And I don't think you should be a nurse."

She looked at him, her eyebrow raised. "What?"

"You should be a doctor."

Alexandra laughed. "Yeah, right."

"I'm being serious."

"No way."

"Why not?"

She shrugged. "If I can't be a nurse, I definitely can't be a doctor."

He rolled his eyes. "Alexandra, you are a great nurse. Stop saying you aren't. And you actually care about the patients. We need compassionate physicians, not people who take shortcuts."

"Blaise, I didn't call you so we could argue all night."

He put his food aside. "Okay. What did you call me for?"

"So you would hold me and kiss me."

He sighed. "I'm not doing a very good job."

"No."

He came beside her then held her to his chest. He planted a kiss on her forehead. "I'm sorry you had a bad day."

"Thank you." She wrapped her arm around his waist and listened to him breathe.

"How was school?"

"It was okay. Nothing too interesting happened."

His voice turned cold. "Did Gabe bother you?"

"He's my friend. He never bothers me."

Blaise didn't comment to that.

"How was your day?"

He immediately thought of the ordeal with Danielle. "Just as uninteresting."

"How's your cotton doing?"

"It's too soon to tell."

"Has your uncle bothered you?"

"No," he said. "But now my brother wants to do the deal too. I'm related to money-hungry idiots."

"There are a lot of those, unfortunately."

He kissed her forehead again. "I'm glad I found someone who's nothing like that."

"Me too." She squeezed him tighter.

"Are you feeling better?"

"Yeah. Why?"

"Because I would love to have a hot make out session with you."

She smiled. "I'd like that."

He cupped her face and kissed her, moving her to the blanket on top of the hay. He was immediately aggressive and domineering, devouring her like he hadn't had a taste in years. Alexandra loved the way he kissed her. It was like he needed her, for now and for always. Just the feel of his lips against her told her how much he cared for her. She felt safe with him, like he'd never hurt her. As long as she had him, anything else that came her way would be resolved.

The longer they kissed, the more she wanted him. She imagined how he looked with his shirt off, chiseled and carved. She grabbed the hem of his shirt and tugged it off. He held up his arms and allowed it to come loose.

Alexandra stared up at him, admiring the perfect physique. It was even better than she imagined. The grooves of his stomach were sharp as stones. His chest was wide and prominent, thick and solid like a slab of limestone. She sat up and kissed his chest, tasting him. He watched her with desire in his eyes. She trailed her lips down to his happy trail then back up.

Blaise moved her back down to the blanket and kissed her again. He didn't remove her shirt or her pants. Alexandra was slightly disappointed by the chivalry, but she was thankful she got to feel his perfect torso. The sight of it made her hotter than she already was.

She had always been conservative in regards to her sex life. The only partner she had was Paul, and they had been dating for almost a year before they finally slept together. While Alexandra didn't think pre-marital sex was wrong, she didn't think sex should be had unless she was in love with the person. Only a month had passed since she met Blaise, but she was certain she did love him. It was quick, but time had no relevance to her. She waited months before she fell in love with Paul, and their love had died because of his infidelity. She didn't need to waste time figuring out how she felt for Blaise. The connection was innate and powerful. It didn't make any sense, but that didn't make it untrue. She reached for his jeans to unbutton them but he pulled her hands away, pinning them above her head. He continued kissing her like he hadn't rejected her.

Alexandra wrapped her legs around his waist and pulled him closer to her, not wanting to let him ago. She pulled her hands away, then glided her nails down his back, making him moan. Her hands returned to his jeans but he pulled them away again. Now she felt hurt. Maybe Blaise didn't feel the same way. She was in love with him, but maybe that feeling wasn't mutual.

He pulled away and placed his forehead against hers. "It's not that I don't want you," he said through heavy breathing.

"Then what?"

There seemed to be pain in his eyes, like he was hiding something.

Alexandra didn't want to know what it was. "I want you."

He kissed her forehead. "I've never been more in the mood in my life."

"Yeah..."

The anticipation disappeared and he grabbed her shirt and pulled it off. After he tossed it aside, he kissed her stomach, his tongue gliding across the skin. Alexandra moaned while she watched him. Their foreplay was so juvenile but she was burning for him, ready to explode.

Blaise moved his lips to her neck and undid her bra at the same time. It happened so quickly, she hadn't noticed. It loosened and slipped off, revealing her breasts.

He stopped and stared at them, the desire bright in his eyes. "Mmm..."

The sound made her legs shake.

Blaise put her nipple in his mouth and sucked gently, his large hand groping her other breast.

Alexandra was so hot, she was in pain. Her head rolled back while she bit her lip. "Blaise..."

He pulled away and pressed his face close to hers. "I like hearing that." His hand touched her stomach then slowly trailed down to the top of her jeans. She bit her lip while she watched him. Her legs opened automatically, waiting to feel him. When his fingers touched her clitoris, she moaned loudly. He stared at her, watching her whimper.

His fingers moved in a circular motion, making her hips move slightly every few seconds. Then his fingers found her entrance. Alexandra grabbed his shoulders then kissed him, wanting to devour him now that he set her on fire. His fingers slid inside her, making her moan louder than normal.

"Oh..."

"You're wet, Alexandra."

She grabbed his neck and kissed him.

The longer he fingered her, the louder his moans became. His breathing increased and sweat dripped down his neck. He pulled his hand away then unbuttoned the top of her jeans, not breaking their kiss. His large hand grabbed the back of her jeans and yanked them off. She lifted her hips slightly, eager to get rid of them.

When they were off, he pulled away and stared at her body. "Oh my fucking god." His eyes shined with burning desire. His hands moved across her body, feeling every inch of her. Blaise moved between her knees then kissed her inner thighs.

The feel of his lips in such an intimate place made her moan.

He stared at her while he kissed her.

Alexandra watched him, aroused by the beautiful man pleasing her in such a profound way. His hands fingered the lace of her thong, pulling it off slowly. When he moved it to her thighs, he bit the crotch and pulled it off with his teeth.

That only increased the burn between her legs.

He lowered himself then kissed her lower stomach, slowly moving to the apex of her thighs. She gripped his hair, quiet sighs escaping her lips. When his lips finally made contact with her clitoris, she practically screamed.

His tongue slid inside her, moving in and out. His thumb rubbed her clitoris.

She bit her lip. "Blaise..."

He increased his ministrations.

Alexandra already felt her body give out. The buildup started in her stomach, growing and expanding as it reached her center, her thighs, and her entire body. It was a slow burn, like the dying embers in a fire, but then it exploded in a crescendo, making her lose all control of her faculties. "Blaise...fuck."

His thumb moved harder. He stared at her, watching the orgasm rock her entire body.

"God...yes." Alexandra dug her nails into his hair. "Blaise." When the orgasm finally started to recede, her head rolled back and she closed her eyes, coming down from her high.

Blaise climbed on top of her then kissed her neck, his hand gliding over her body.

She grabbed the top of his jeans and unbuttoned them. When she pulled them down, she saw the huge bulge in his boxers. It was twitching, begging her to please him. His breathing was deep and heavy. He was panting.

She rolled him to his back then straddled him.

Blaise's eyes widened. The need in his eyes was difficult not to notice. His chest was rising and falling at a quick rate.

Alexandra grabbed the rim of his boxers and pulled them down. When his large cock popped out, she gasped. "Oh yeah..."

His eyes brightened at her approval.

She stared at the enlarged tip and the vein that ran up the base. It was impressive in its length and its girth. She licked her lips instinctively.

Blaise moaned while he watched her.

"I wanted to go down on you but now I want that inside me."

"Fuck," he said with a deep breath. His cock twitched. "That almost made me come."

She crawled up his chest and kissed him. His arm wrapped around her waist and grabbed onto her, controlling her. She grabbed his cock then ran her fingers down to the base. "Do you have a condom?"

"No," he said in frustration. "I was hoping you were on the pill."

"I was." The intense desire circulating through her almost made her want to do it anyway and take a chance. She took a deep breath then kissed his chest, moving down to his cock.

He moaned as he watched her.

She grabbed the base then inserted the tip into her mouth. She sucked it gently and rubbed her tongue over the tip, tasting the juice that started to seep out.

"Fuck, you're good at that."

She pushed him all the way inside, his tip moving to the back of her throat.

"How are you doing this right now...?"

Alexandra used her hand to rub his base, her mouth moving with it.

His hand gripped the back of her neck, moving with her. His breathing was heavy, and gasps continued to escape his lips. His legs shook slightly, like he was trying not to let himself fall apart. "Damn..." He stiffened when his moment overcame him.

Alexandra felt him squirt in the back of her throat, filling her with his hot stickiness. Judging by the intense sounds he was making, he hadn't gotten a blowjob in a long time. She licked his tip, making sure she got every drop before she finished.

Blaise stared her, adoration and exhaustion both flooding his face. He grabbed her and pulled her to his chest. "That was fucking amazing."

"You're good too."

"Well, eating your pussy is heaven."

"So was sucking your cock."

He took a deep breath. "You're so hot when you talk like that."

She trailed her fingers down his stomach, feeling the valleys of muscle.

"I should probably get going," he said with a sigh. "Even though I'd rather not."

"Me too."

He kissed her forehead then held her for a moment. "You're my everything, Alexandra."

She was touched by the emotional words. "You're everything to me."

He kissed her lips gently then pulled away. Blaise dressed himself while she watched him. She did the same a moment later. He looked disappointed that she had her clothes on again. They walked down the ladder and headed to the porch. Blaise held her hand until they reached the door.

"Good night," he said as he hugged her.

"Good night."

"Call me if you need anything."

"I will."

"I'll see you in the morning."

Alexandra looked at him. "I think I can take care of the fields on my own now. The planting is over."

"No, it's okay."

"Blaise, really. I have it down."

"It's not your responsibility."

"And it's not yours either." She stared at him. "If I need help, I'll call you."

"You're my girlfriend. I take care of you."

Her eyes softened. "I'm your girlfriend?"

"What did you think you were?"

"I thought we were just dating."

He eyed her. "Do you try to have sex with guys you're just dating?"

His words stung. "No."

Blaise continued to stare. "How many guys have you slept with?"

"Wow. You just became an asshole real quick."

He sighed. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean it like that."

"How else could you have possibly meant that?"

Blaise ran his fingers through his hair. "I want to make love to you, Alexandra. Feel the inside of you. But I can't do that unless I mean something to you...it would kill me if I didn't."

She grabbed his hand. "You mean more than something, Blaise."

He breathed a sigh of relief.

"And I've slept with one person my whole life. You can guess who it was."

Blaise nodded. "I just—I feel like girls want to sleep with me because of my money, not for who I am. I guess I'm just sensitive to that topic."

Alexandra didn't like the sound of that. He was obviously experienced. She didn't want to know what his number was.

Blaise stared at her, waiting for her to ask.

She decided it was better left unsaid. She kissed him on the cheek. "I'll see you later."

"Can I take you to dinner tomorrow?"

"I'm your girlfriend. You can take me to dinner whenever you want." She winked at him and walked inside. "Just make sure you bring condoms next time."

His cock hardened then twitched.
Chapter Twenty One

Danielle's mother had suffered severe trauma, but she would survive the crash. That was the good news. The bad news was, Danielle was more of an emotional wreck than she was before.

Unfortunately, Blaise had to see her every day. There was no way around it. He would always cross paths with her, whether she was leaving for the hospital or coming home.

When he walked into his office and retrieved some files, Danielle walked in, her eyes already watering.

She sat in the chair facing his desk. "The doctors said she'll be able to walk again, but it'll be a lot of physical therapy to get her to that point."

Even though Blaise hated Danielle, he knew he had to be compassionate. Her parents had always been nice to him, even when they thought he knocked up their daughter. But then again, they probably just wanted Danielle to marry him so they could take a cut of his profits. Either way, he wasn't completely cold. "That's good news."

"Good news?" she asked incredulously.

He took a deep breath. "That crash could have easily killed her. It's a miracle she didn't die. And it's even more astounding that she'll be able to walk again. I know your mom is in pain, but she's a very lucky woman."

She sighed. "You're right. I'm sorry. I've just been so strung out lately."

He nodded then went back to his bookkeeping.

"Why don't you have me do your office work?"

Blaise ignored the question. She had asked him so many times. "How's your dad?"

"He's okay. He wants to sue the truck driver."

"I'm sure it was an honest mistake."

"That doesn't mean anything to him." She wiped the tears away then looked at him. "So, who is this girl? Anyone I know?"

"No," he said firmly. "And I wouldn't tell you if you did."

"It's a small town. I'll figure it out eventually."

"Danielle, why do you care?" he snapped. "If it's not her, it'll just be someone else. It doesn't change anything. It will never be you."

"You're such an asshole."

His eyes widened. "You lied to me and told me you were pregnant so I'd marry you. Fuck you, Danielle."

"I did not!"

"Then show me proof."

"What?"

"I want proof that you were pregnant."

"That's not even possible," she said.

"Show me a record proving you had an appointment with an obstetrician."

"I don't just carry that with me."

"All you have to do is call the office and ask for your records. That will settle it."

She glared at him. "I can't remember which doctor I went to."

He shook his head. "That's likely since there are three in the entire town. I'm not surprised, Danielle. I just wish I knew you were lying before I let you move in."

"I wasn't lying," she snapped.

"You aren't convincing anyone. I can't wait until you're out of my life forever."

"I can't believe you just said that to me after everything I'm going through."

He stood up and slammed his fists on the desk. "Then leave!"

She glared at him then stormed out of his study.

Blaise returned to his chair, holding his head in his hands. "Fuck me!"
Chapter Twenty Two

Alexandra was driving him crazy. He had no idea someone could be so sexy without even trying. Everything she did was tantalizing. They continued their heated kissing sessions every chance they got. When he took her home, they just laid down and made out in the back of his truck. They meant to go to the loft but didn't always make it that far.

She'd pull his shirt off but he didn't reciprocate, even though it nearly killed him not to. He imagined her naked body multiple times, thought about her round, bare tits. It kept him up at night when he rubbed one out. He never masturbated to the thought of a real person, not a supermodel or porn star, but he always thought of her when he touched himself. It was getting harder to wait as the weeks went by. And it had nothing to do with sexual frustration.

Being with Alexandra made him realize how much time he wasted with all the other girls. Danielle was the biggest loser of all. He thought he could get by on his looks and his money, taking whatever girl he wanted. In retrospect, it was so depressing. Alexandra completed him in every way. She was the one, the love of his life. He just wanted to admit the truth to her, even if she didn't feel the same.

But Danielle was still in his way. Her mother's illness had crippled her. Anytime he tried to discuss her options, she would break down in tears, saying she was too scared to leave his protection. He stayed at his second home most of the time, far away from her. Alexandra hinted at seeing his place but she didn't press the issue. It was becoming more difficult not to lie to her. Changing the subject would only work so many times.

Alexandra still worked as a tech at the hospital even though she was completely competent to be a nurse. No matter what he said, she still didn't have the confidence to go back. She was determined to accept her failures.

Blaise tried to resolve his problem with Danielle. She needed to go somewhere she'd be safe and Evan would never find her. That was the only plausible option. But all her friends and family lived in Savannah. Blaise doubted she would agree to move somewhere else.

He considered taking out Evan himself, killing him and making it look like an accident. It was murder, which Blaise knew was unethical and wrong, but he was so desperate to keep Alexandra that he would try anything. Evan was already scared of him, but that wouldn't be useful if he and Danielle were broken up.

Obstacles kept halting his ideas. But he didn't give up. He had to find a way. If not, he would lose the greatest thing that ever happened to him.

When he picked up Alexandra, she was wearing a short dress with heels. The sight of her long legs made him instantly hard.

She smiled at him then wrapped her arms around his neck. "You look nice."

"Uh...you...yeah."

Alexandra's cheeks reddened. "Is that a compliment?"

He nodded vigorously. Then he grabbed her waist and pushed her against the door of his truck, kissing her neck and moving his hands up and down her waist.

She leaned her head back, giving him plenty of room. "I'm not hungry," she whispered.

"Neither am I."

"Good."

He pulled away and stared into her eyes. The desire he felt was mirrored back at him. Neither one of them wanted to have dinner at a restaurant, separated by a table. There was only one thing on their minds.

He moved his lips to her ear. "Where do you want to go?"

"How about the creek?"

His heart raced in his chest. This was something he wanted, to be with her intimately. He never felt the emotions that surged through his body now. Alexandra was the sun in his sky, the light to the earth. "Are you sure?"

"God yes, I'm sure."

Blaise shook slightly at her enthusiasm. He grabbed her hand and led her to the passenger door. After she was inside, he got into the driver's seat and drove to the creek. Alexandra didn't stay on her side of the truck. She was practically sitting on top of him, kissing his neck.

"I can't wait to feel you inside me."

The car swerved. "Damn..."

Her hand rubbed his crotch, giving him extra stimulation he didn't need.

Blaise drove toward the edge of the clearing then killed the engine quickly. It was dark in the glade. The streetlamps from the road were absent here. Only the light from his dashboard gave them any illumination.

Alexandra gripped his thigh. "Let's go outside."

Blaise felt his heart pound. He was at a loss for words.

She moved to the back of the tailgate and lowered it. Blaise grabbed her waist and set her at the edge. When she wrapped her legs around his waist and pulled him toward her, her dress moved up, revealing her black thong.

Blaise felt another moment of hesitation. He hadn't figured out how to resolve his situation with Danielle, but he wasn't too concerned about it in light of the desire in Alexandra's eyes. He thought he saw love in their depths but he couldn't be sure. But he knew how his heart felt. It beat for Alexandra, the love of his life. His heart belonged to her exclusively. He never felt something so strong before. But he was afraid to say it. What if she didn't say it back?

She unbuttoned his jeans and pulled them down. Her hands grabbed his shirt and stripped it away, leaving him in his boxers. His crotch was touching hers because the truck was at the perfect height.

Blaise's mind snapped. Desire fueled him, taking the reins. He grabbed the sleeves of her dress then pulled them down her shoulders. His lips kissed the skin of her neck and shoulder, making her gasp. He pulled her close to him, rubbing his bulge against her clitoris.

The touch of her skin to his lips lit him on fire. The sweet smell of her perfume increased his arousal. She always had a distinct scent to her, like summer flowers in a deserted pasture. The quiet sounds made him grip her tighter, squeezing her. He had never been more excited for sex than he was then. Every incident in his past seemed like torture compared to this. And Blaise had never made love to someone before. He wanted it to be perfect.

He lifted up her dress then pulled it over her head. He wanted to feel her naked body next to his while he moved inside her. Their souls would touch just as much as their flesh. When he pulled her thong off, she moaned again.

Blaise pressed his face close to hers and looked into her eyes. They were still green despite the darkness that surrounded them. They burned in flames, signifying her need for him. He wanted to express the depth of his love for her, confess that she was the one for him, his other half. But he couldn't bring himself to say it.

She grabbed the rim of his boxers and pulled them down. His impressive size popped out, twitching in excitement. Her breathing increased as she looked at it, studying it like a work of art. She kissed his lips gently, then pulled away.

Blaise grabbed a packet from his jeans and tore it open.

"Allow me." She took it and placed it over his tip.

He couldn't hide the excitement he felt. His cock was throbbing and leaking, showing his every thought. She left extra room at the tip then rolled the rest of it down to the base. She was gentle but firm. Watching her sheathe him made his mind want to explode.

When she was finished, she wrapped her arms around his neck, her lips slightly open. The sound of crickets played in the background. The soft movement of the stream drifted to their ears, making them feel isolated from the world. There was no one else around for miles. No one else in the world existed but each other.

Blaise grabbed her ass and tilted her slightly, bringing her close to him. Her breathing hitched for a moment, unable to control her excitement. He kept his face close to hers as he directed his tip to her entrance. Wetness touched his fingers, telling him she was more than ready.

She gripped his neck, ready for impact. "Blaise..."

He pulled her closer, slipping his tip inside. A gasp escaped his lips as he felt her stretch apart.

Her breathing increased and her nails dug into his skin. "Yeah..."

Blaise moved further inside, placing his cock halfway. Even through the latex, he felt her intimately. She was wet and warm, tightening around him as he moved. He knew how excited she was by the touch.

She grabbed his face and kissed him, her kiss aggressive. Desperate moans escaped her mouth at the same time, echoing around the glen. She pulled herself closer to him, wanting more.

Blaise gave into her and moved completely inside. He released the breath he was holding. Time seemed to stop now that they were joined together. Blaise felt his heart race in his chest, completely in tune with hers. Her breasts were warm against his skin. Her nipples were red and pebbled, displaying her arousal.

Alexandra was already trembling, her moans becoming louder. Blaise started to rock into her gently. The truck shook as he thrust into her.

She pressed her head close to his. "Oh my god..."

Blaise moved faster, sliding into her with little resistance. His cock was already twitching with desire for release. It was easy to get off with her. He wanted to explode the moment his tip touched her entrance. The pain in his heart was overwhelming. Everything ached. He never felt the connection with someone like he did with her. He never loved someone more than he loved himself. Alexandra was the person he'd give his life for. Just seeing her smile made his day. A single frown could ruin it. His heart throbbed as he moved. He wanted her for the rest of his life. The realization scared him. Alexandra could completely destroy him if she wanted to. If she ended the relationship or found someone else, it would be a horrible blow.

Alexandra breathed into his mouth. "Yeah...yeah."

He knew she was on the verge of exploding. He cupped her face and placed his lips against her ear. "You're so beautiful."

Alexandra opened her legs wider while she panted for him. The sound of her heavy breathing gave away her emotion. She was spiraling out of control, tightening around him the longer he moved inside her with even strokes.

"Come on, baby," he whispered. "I'm going to make you come harder than you ever have."

Her nails dug into him so hard, they almost drew blood. "Blaise..." Her moan turned into a yell. If anyone was in their vicinity, they would've heard it. It sounded like Blaise was killing her, making her lose control. Her breathing was loud and heavy, like she was hyperventilating. "Yeah..."

Blaise thrust into her faster, rocking the truck loudly as he moved. He gripped her tightly, holding her while he moved in and out. She was still as wet as she was when they started. He'd never tire of making love to her. It was the best experience of his life. But he had to keep thinking of other things so he wouldn't explode. He concentrated on the beautiful woman before him, the girl that came into his life so unexpectedly. She turned his life around, made him realize that happiness was possible. He didn't need to sleep around to feel connected to someone else. As soon as he touched Alexandra's hand, he knew they were meant for each other. He couldn't believe he found someone so amazing, caring, and passionate. It was obvious she loved feeling him inside her because she cared for him deeply, not just because he knew how to get her off.

"Oh my fucking god," she said when her orgasm finished. "You are...fuck." She moaned for a few seconds, still overcoming her high.

Blaise put his hand on her lower back and pushed inside her completely. "I'm going to blow your mind."

She bit her lip while she felt him. Then she grabbed his hips and started to rock into him with equal intensity. Now she made it more challenging for him to remain in control. He grabbed her face and kissed her, his tongue darting into her mouth. Every time he touched her, a quiet gasp escaped her lips. He loved the effect he had on her. She was like a puppet he could control. Touching and saying the right things could make her snap. He thrust into her hard and fast while kissing her. It had the effect he wanted, because she started to mumble incoherently, yelling at the same time. He grabbed her thighs and held them back while he pushed deep inside her.

Alexandra recovered from the momentum and pressed her face close to his, breathing deeply. Sweat dripped down her chest, slicking his skin. Her hair was in disarray, messy from their lovemaking. Blaise stared into her face as he thrust quick and fast, knowing it was his turn to meet his end. He felt the slow burn between his legs. It formed in his stomach then moved to the base of his balls.

"Thank you for giving me this," he whispered.

Her eyes softened. Then she wrapped her arms around his neck and moved into him, sheathing him over and over. Blaise felt the explosion. "Yeah..." He grabbed her hips and pulled her to him repeatedly, his semen filling the tip of the condom. He pretended the latex wasn't there, that he was filling her. "Mmm...."

When he was finished, he didn't pull out. Instead, he placed his forehead against hers and closed his eyes. His heart burst from his chest, tingling throughout his entire body. The moment he had with Alexandra was pure. It was the first time he gave his heart and soul to someone else. He never thought it would happen but it had. "You are mine," he whispered.

"I know."

He opened his eyes and looked into her green ones. "How was that for you?"

"Is that a serious question?" she asked, out of breath. "Now I understand why it's one of the things you're exceptionally good at."

"Well, you make it easy to be good at it. Very easy."

She cupped his face and rubbed her nose against his.

"I've never made love to someone before."

Her eyes softened when she looked at him, her eyes turning a brighter shade of green. "I'm honored."

"And I'm honored that you let me."
Chapter Twenty Three

Alexandra knew she was in love with Blaise. The fact became more solidified with every passing day. It was undeniable and unshakeable. When they kissed and made love, she could swear he felt the same way.

After a few paychecks, she finally bought a truck. It was older, but it worked, had a radio, AC, and new tires. That was all she needed. She attended to the fields on her own, confident that she knew exactly what she was doing. The more times she did it, the faster she became. She was never fat, but all the exercise made her lean and tight. Her aunt recovered from her back injury, but Alexandra refused to let her get back to work. It was only a matter of time before she threw out her back again. Which led to another complication; her aunt had to sell the land.

When Alex came home from work, she walked inside and sat at the kitchen table. Her aunt had dinner ready. She always seemed to know when Alexandra would be home. She picked up her fork and dug in.

Martha eyed her. "You having fun with Blaise?"

Alexandra didn't know what that meant. "Yes..."

"You like him?"

"Yeah..."

"Alexandra, I know about you two. I've known for months. To be honest, I'm a little hurt you didn't tell me."

She sighed. "Well, I didn't want you to tell anyone else."

"Why the need for secrecy?"

"Well, one of my guy friends asked me out and I said I wasn't interested in dating anyone. Then I started dating Blaise immediately. I just didn't want him to think I was lying."

Martha stared at her. "And you still need to keep it a secret?"

"Well, I guess not. He probably wouldn't care now. I think it's been enough time."

"So what are you waiting for?"

"Nothing, I guess."

"Is this serious?" Martha asked.

They hadn't really discussed it, but there was no need. It seemed pretty clear that they wanted each other for as long as possible. "I think so."

"You think?"

"I'm in love with him," she blurted.

Martha's eyes narrowed. Alexandra couldn't read the expression. It was a look she'd never received from her aunt. "Does he know?"

"I've never told him...but I think he does."

Martha returned to eating her food.

"I feel like I know him better than anyone, but there's still a shadow over his story. Like, I've never seen his house or met his family. I feel like there's something missing."

"Why don't you ask him?"

She shrugged. "I don't want to pry."

"It's been two months. It's perfectly okay to pry."

Alexandra chuckled. "I guess so."

"So, that ex-boyfriend is a man of the past?"

Alex nodded. "I love Blaise in a very different way."

"Have you had sex?" she said bluntly.

Alexandra's cheeks turned red. "Uh...."

"Uh...?"

She didn't feel weird having this discussion with her aunt, but the question still caught her by surprise. They had always been close. She was the mother that Alexandra never really had. "Yeah."

Martha nodded but kept her mouth shut.

"Why?" Alexandra asked.

"Sex is a serious thing, and it should only be done in a serious relationship. It shouldn't be taken lightly."

Alexandra nodded. "I agree."

"Is he serious about you?"

"I don't know."

"Ask him."

Alexandra didn't want to have an awkward conversation, but she supposed it was a legitimate question.

Martha finished her dinner then carried the plates to the sink. She scrubbed them and stacked them on the towel. They took turns cooking dinner and cleaning up. They'd come up with a good system. "Good night, dear." She kissed Alex on the forehead.

"Aunt Martha?"

"Yes?"

"When did you and Uncle Mike first have sex?"

Martha smiled. "Well, that's a personal question."

"You don't have to answer it."

"The first night we met."

Alexandra's eyes widened. "What? I thought you said sex should only be had in a serious relationship?"

"Who said we weren't serious?" She had a twinkle in her eyes. "Mike was the one. I knew it the moment I saw him. I wasn't wasting any extra time. And we were married for twenty-five years."

"Wow."

She nodded.

"Well, I think there's something we should talk about."

"What, dear?"

"It's getting more difficult for you to take care of the property, not that there's anything wrong with that. But I think you should sell the land. You could make a good profit and move into a nice house close to the city."

Her light mood disappeared. "I appreciate your concern, but I'm not moving. This is where I will live until I die."

"But, Martha—"

"I've heard this argument dozens of times from dozens of people. I will not change my mind."

Alexandra sighed, knowing she had been defeated.

Her aunt walked into her bedroom and shut the door.

The house phone rang loudly, startling Alexandra. No one ever called.

"Hey," Alexandra said, assuming it was her sister.

"Alex?"

Alexandra stilled when she recognized the voice. "Paul?"

"You're in Georgia?"

She didn't know what to say.

"You have no idea how hard it was for me to track you down. I'm so glad to hear your voice." He took a deep breath. "God, I've missed you like crazy."

Alexandra was rooted to the spot, still shocked. When she finally regained her voice, her words flew out. "Why the fuck are you calling me?"

"Excuse me? You just took off without telling me where the hell you were going. I thought you were moving apartments, not states."

"You shouldn't worry about me anymore, Paul. I'm not your girlfriend. I'm not your problem."

"Well, I still love you so you are my problem."

"You don't love me," she said gently.

"Yes, I do. I've never been more convinced in my life. These past two months have been hell without you. It was like not having any air or water. I love you."

"Paul, please don't call me again."

"Why are you being like this?" he snapped. "Our two-year relationship meant nothing to you? I'm still important to you. You should at least have the heart to check in with me and leave your phone on. How would you feel if I just disappeared off the face of the earth?"

She knew she wouldn't like it at all.

"Alexandra, you need to stop running from your problems. Georgia isn't where you belong."

"I like it here," she said simply.

"But it's not your home. New York is where you belong."

This conversation was becoming too much for Alexandra. "I have to go."

"What? No. How have you been? Are you okay?"

"I'm fine, Paul."

"When are you coming back?"

"I'm not."

"What?" He sounded wounded. "You have to come back. What the hell is in Georgia? You're better than that."

"My family is here."

"If you don't come home, I'll come get you."

"You have no idea where I am."

"I got your phone number, didn't I?"

Alexandra felt the anger rise. "How did you get it?"

"It doesn't matter."

"Did Abby give it to you?" The betrayal burned in her veins.

"Come home, baby."

"Don't call me that!"

"I need to talk to you about our relationship, but I'm not having this conversation on the phone."

"There's nothing to discuss."

"Alexandra, please. I can come to you."

"No, Paul. Please don't call me again."

"Alexandra—"

She hung up then pulled the cord out of the wall.
Chapter Twenty Four

After Alexandra finished her classes for the afternoon, her friends decided to go to Rob's Bar and Grill. It seemed to be their favorite place because the beer was cheap and the food was good. As summer faded, the fall weather started to come into the air. Alexandra could still wear dresses but she usually needed a jacket to keep warm. Or she'd just lay next to Blaise.

When they walked inside the restaurant, they took their seats. Drinks were brought and Alexandra drank hers until it was almost empty.

"Long day?" Gabe asked with a smile.

Alexandra had a lot on her mind. Paul's unexpected phone call turned her world upside down. She hadn't told Blaise about it because she didn't want him to get worked up over nothing. When Gabe grabbed her arm, Blaise almost committed manslaughter. "Yeah, you could say that."

Her relationship with Blaise was perfect, but she was confused by the sudden halt in it. She felt like their relationship had grown as much as possible under the restrictions. There was no need to be a secret anymore, and she was ready to take it public. She liked the hours they spent kissing, the nights they made love in the loft, and the time they spent together, but she wanted more than that. She wanted all of him. It had been stressing her out lately. She'd been meaning to address it with him.

Hannah sighed. "Physics is such a pain, but I got a B on my last test."

"Congratulations," Alexandra said.

"Good job," Lisa said.

"It's because Alexandra helped me, of course," Hannah said.

"You're the one who did the work," Alexandra said. "I couldn't make you write down the right answers on the test."

"Now look who's a genius," Gabe said with a wink.

Hannah smiled. "Thanks." She turned to Lisa. "How are you and Cole? I haven't seen you together in a while."

She rolled her eyes. "He's been weird lately, stressed about something."

"The cotton?" Hannah asked.

"I don't know," Lisa said. "He never talks about it."

"He grows cotton?" Alexandra asked.

"He and his brother inherited a company, but Cole doesn't do much."

Alexandra felt her mind race with the connection. "What's Cole's last name?"

"Cunnings," Lisa answered.

"He's Blaise's brother?" Alexandra asked.

"You didn't know that?" Gabe asked.

"I guess I just forgot..."

"Well, he's supposed to meet us today," Lisa said. "Hopefully he'll be in a better mood." She looked across the room and saw him. "There he is."

He approached their table and sat in the booth beside her, dropping his arm across Lisa's shoulders. "Hey, babe."

Alexandra stared at him, recognizing the similar features. He had dark hair like Blaise. His eyes were also the same color. There was no mistaking their resemblance.

"You've met Alex?" Lisa asked.

He shook her hand. "No, but I know you're Martha's niece."

"It's nice to formally meet you." Alexandra wondered if she should just come clean about her relationship with Blaise. It was only a secret for Gabe, but she didn't think that was necessary anymore. Gabe had dated a few girls and he didn't seem interested in Alex anymore. She decided to go with it. "Blaise and I have been dating for a while."

He raised an eyebrow. "You've been dating my brother?" He seemed totally shocked. Alexandra expected that.

Her friends looked even more surprised. Hannah actually had her mouth gaping open. Gabe looked pissed. And Lisa looked like she still didn't comprehend what Alexandra just said.

"Yeah, for a while now," Alexandra said awkwardly, not realizing how shocking this would be to everyone.

"Are you sure?" Cole asked.

Alexandra thought that was an odd question. "I think I would know."

"Isn't he still with Danielle?" Lisa asked.

Cole still looked at Alexandra. "Last time I checked."

Alexandra felt her heart race. "What?"

Gabe stared at her. "Blaise has been living with Danielle for six months when she got pregnant. She had a miscarriage but they are still together."

Blood pounded in her ears. It thudded inside her head, getting increasingly louder. Her heart worked in overdrive, unable to handle the sudden rush of adrenaline. Her hands shook under the table. She tried to keep them still but they wouldn't stop moving. It was like she was on Ritalin.

"Why didn't you tell us?" Hannah snapped. "We could have warned you about all of this."

"There must be some sort of mistake," Alexandra said. "Blaise isn't like that."

Cole shrugged. "My brother and I aren't that close. But I would know if they were broken up."

"So, what, she's been living there the whole time?" Alexandra asked.

"She's always there when I'm around," Cole said.

Gabe clenched his fists on the table. "I told you I didn't like him."

Alexandra ignored him, at a loss for words.

Lisa eyed her sympathetically. "I'm so sorry... I had no idea you two were together. I would have told you if I knew."

"How did he keep it a secret?" Hannah asked.

"I wanted to keep it a secret," Alexandra said. "I wasn't ready to be public." Her voice trailed away as it died. A lump formed in her throat. Tears started to bubble, but she kept them back. "Please excuse me." She left the booth and headed toward the door.

Gabe followed her. "Alexandra, let me take you home."

She turned to him, feeling hollow. "I really want to be alone right now."

"I can't leave you like this."

"Please," she said. "Just go." She turned to her truck and got inside. She started the engine and headed home, unsure where else to go. She didn't know where Blaise lived so she couldn't drive to him so she picked up her phone and called him.

"Alexandra."

She said nothing, unable to spit out the words.

"Alexandra? Are you there?"

"Who's Danielle?"

There was complete silence.

She felt her heart rate increase. "I can't believe you've been cheating on me this entire time." She felt the tears fall. "I'm so fucking stupid. I knew you were too good to be true."

"Alexandra, I haven't been cheating on you."

"That's not what I heard from your own brother."

"I can explain everything."

"There's no need. Goodbye, Blaise." She hung up and turned off her phone. The tears fell down her face in waves. They dripped and blurred her vision. When she got to her house, she didn't go inside. She didn't want her aunt to see her like that, broken and shattered. She tried to compose herself first.

Blaise's truck sped into the driveway, bouncing as it went over the hills at a remarkable speed. He slid across the dirt until he reached her. He jumped out quicker than a bolt of lightning.

He opened the door then stared her down. "Alexandra, I can explain everything."

She continued to cry, staring straight ahead.

"This isn't how I wanted you to find out."

"There's never a good way to find out your boyfriend is cheating on you." She got out of the truck and shut the door.

He moved in her way. "Look, I was with Danielle a long time ago. She was someone I was just sleeping with, but then she told me she was pregnant. I was responsible and had her move in so everything would be ready for the baby. I was never happy with her. I was sucked into a relationship I didn't even want to be in. But then she suddenly had a miscarriage. That's when it got worse. I tried breaking up with her, but it never worked. She always had panic attacks and started sobbing. Months ago, I officially ended it, before I even met you."

She processed his words, feeling confused. "That makes no fucking sense. Then why does she still live with you? And everyone says you're together. If you were broken up, your brother would know."

Blaise ran his fingers through his hair, cursing under his breath. "I can't tell you why. But we aren't together anymore. I promise."

She glared at him. "You promise? Why the fuck would your promise mean anything to me?"

He looked panicked. "I know this doesn't look good. I completely understand why you're upset. But I swear on my life that I'm not with Danielle, haven't been with her in months. She and I are barely friends. She's only staying with me because she has to."

Alex shook her head. "And why does she have to stay there?"

Blaise closed his eyes for a moment. "I can't tell you..."

"Fuck you, Blaise."

He grabbed her by the arm. "Please take a leap of faith for me. I can't tell you why she's staying with me because I promised I wouldn't. But nothing has happened between us. I've been faithful to you this entire time. You can trust me."

Alexandra pulled away. She wanted to believe him. She knew Blaise was a good and honest man. It seemed impossible that he was a liar and a cheat. But she had been wrong before. Alex once thought Paul was the perfect guy, but he slept with someone else when she was at her lowest point. Clearly, she was a horrible judge of character. "Get out of my life, Blaise."

"No," he said. "I'll tell you eventually. Please just trust me for now."

"Then why didn't you just tell me to begin with? People only keep secrets if they are ashamed of them."

He sighed. "I wanted to ask you out the moment I saw you. But I didn't want to start a relationship when I had all this drama with Danielle, especially when I couldn't explain it in detail. It would have ended the relationship before it even began. I decided to wait and keep my distance from you. But then it became impossible. You are like a beacon of light to me. I couldn't stay away from you."

"Then why didn't you tell me after we were serious?" She crossed her arms over her chest.

He ran his fingers through his hair. "I wanted to wait until I figured out what to do with Danielle so I could be honest with you and tell you everything. I didn't realize it was going to take so long. I kept putting it off, because the more I fell in love with you, the more scared I became that you would leave me. Then her mom got in a car accident and that fucked everything up."

"You're in love with me?"

"I thought that was obvious."

"No," she said as she shook her head. "Now it's impossible."

"Please don't say that..."

She wiped her tears. "You've been lying to me this entire time. How can I trust anything you say?"

"You can," he said firmly. "I've never lied to you."

"You were purposely deceitful. And that's worse than lying. I have even less respect for you now."

He looked like he had been stabbed. "No..."

"I can't believe you were living with her this entire time...sleeping together."

"Nothing ever happened," he said firmly. "She stayed in the guestroom."

"I can't believe this...I opened up to you. I told you everything about Paul. That was your window to tell me about Danielle."

"I know..."

"You know how much I love you, Blaise. I've never said it but you know it. And you broke my heart anyway."

"Alexandra, I'm sorry."

She held up her hand. "I can't be with a cheater. It doesn't matter how I feel about you. I refuse to be with someone who would do that to me." She shook her head. "Something was going on with Paul. I don't know exactly what he was doing, but whatever it was, it wasn't with me. I know what it's like not to trust your partner, and I know what it's like to be betrayed. I never want that again." He took a deep breath and his eyes started to coat with tears. "I can't do this, Blaise. I never expected to fall for someone so quickly. The love was there the moment we met. That doesn't happen for me very often. It took me years just to find Paul. But now it's all a waste, a lie. It's another heartbreak I'll have to endure. I keep picking the wrong ones..."

Blaise let his tears fall. "Alexandra, I'm madly in love with you. I haven't felt this way in...forever. I can't lose you. I understand why you're upset. But I promise I never cheated on you. I'm not with Danielle."

"Then why does everyone think you are? Everything factual contradicts what you say."

He sighed. "I can't tell you that either."

Alexandra felt her heart ache. She felt so stupid for falling for him. "And to hear about it from my friends...that just made it worse. Hearing it from you would have been better."

He sniffed. "I was going to tell you, I swear."

Her tears cascaded down. She hated hurting him. It was hurting her even more. "You had months, Blaise."

"I know...I know. Fuck." He ran his fingers through his hair. "Alexandra, I really love you. I've never felt this way about anyone before. And I know I'll never feel this way again. You're the one."

"I know." She sniffed. "I know."

"Please don't throw away something so damn good."

"You threw it away, Blaise."

More tears fell.

"It doesn't matter how much I love you. I don't trust you. I can't trust you."

"You can," he whispered.

She turned away. "I'm sorry."

He grabbed her face and kissed her, his tears splashing onto her face.

She gave into it for a moment. Then she pulled away. "Stop."

Blaise pressed his forehead to hers. "Please...please. I'll beg."

"It won't change anything." She stepped away but he held her. "You're just making this worse." She sobbed through her words. "I hate hurting you, Blaise. I hate seeing the pain on your face. You're just making a horrific situation unbearable."

"Alexandra, I can't lose you. You're the best fucking thing that ever happened to me."

"You're the best thing that ever happened to me."

He came close to her. "I love you, Alexandra. My heart and soul are yours."

"I love you too," she said through her tears. "But I can't take them. They no longer belong to me. They belong to Danielle, your real girlfriend."

Alexandra walked into the house, weak as she climbed up the steps. She felt hollow and empty. The sound of Blaise crying reached her ears, making it a million times more painful. She thought he was the real deal but she had been mistaken. He was just a liar like all the rest.
Chapter Twenty Five

Blaise had more money than he'd ever need, a house to feel safe in, and friends he trusted, but that didn't matter. Alexandra was everything to him, and now she was gone. After he left Alexandra's, he drove to the creek, the very field where he took Alexandra. She finally told him everything that happened at the hospital, but he kept his mouth shut. He should have just been honest with her. Now he hated himself more than ever.

When he got home, his workers were moving across the endless expanse of fields. The sun was high in the sky but Blaise felt frozen to the bone. He went into his bedroom and tried to fall asleep. He just wanted to get away from the pain he felt. Alexandra was no longer his. It was so hard to accept.

He eventually fell asleep but he couldn't recall when. When he woke up, he realized he missed his class. But that didn't matter to him. He was too depressed to take a single note. He sat up and stared at the opposite wall.

Hours went by before he noticed the absence of sunlight. His mind was conflicted with emotions. He needed Alexandra but he couldn't have her. He fucked up and he knew it. But the idea of losing her was too much. Before the tears bubbled under his eyes, he left the house and drove back to her.

Her truck was parked outside so he knew she was home. He went to the front door and knocked.

Aunt Martha opened it. She stared at him with a stoic expression.

"Can I see Alexandra for a moment?" Emotion lodged in his throat. He tried to keep it back but couldn't.

"No." The disappointment in her voice was unmistakable.

"Please," he said calmly.

"Blaise, you aren't welcome here. Get off my property."

The words stung him. "I love her. I didn't mean to hurt her."

"I don't care what you meant to do." She closed the door.

Blaise stuck his foot inside so it remained open. "I admit I should have told her the truth from the beginning but I meant well."

"You lied to me."

"What? No, I didn't."

"You told me you'd tell her. Instead, she found out in an appalling way, and now she's hysterical with a broken heart. You are still with Danielle like I suspected."

He sighed. "I know...I want to make it right."

"You can't. Now leave."

"I'm not going anywhere until I talk to her," he said firmly. "We can work this out."

She opened the door and stepped toward him, rage on her face. "If I can't trust your word, how can I trust anything you say? How do I know you weren't still screwing that girl?"

"Because I wouldn't do that," he snapped. "Don't accuse me of being a cheater. It's not in my morals or my nature."

"Blaise, I know how you are. You're a man that likes to have a line of women. Nothing has changed with you. And there isn't a single person who can confirm your story, not even Danielle. Admit it. You used Alexandra and cheated on Danielle."

His eyes widened at the insult. "I'm nothing like I used to be. I love Alexandra with my whole heart. I want her—only her."

She didn't seem convinced. "Don't bother my niece again."

Blaise sighed. "You know me, Martha. You know I would never hurt her on purpose."

Her eyes softened. "Blaise, I've always considered you to be my own family. There are many qualities that I admire in you. But Alexandra is my family too. And she isn't just my niece, she's like a daughter to me. And you know this better than anyone. If you hurt her, you hurt me. I can't allow you to bother her, make her feel worse than she already does. Please don't come back to the house unless it's business related. And even then, a phone call should suffice."

"Martha, please help me. I'll treat her right and give her nothing less than what she deserves. Ask her to give me another chance."

She stepped toward him, her arms across her chest. "Right now, I'm thoroughly disappointed in you. You claim you weren't betraying Alexandra, but there's no proof of it. Even now that you've lost Alexandra, you still won't explain yourself. I don't hate you, but if you continue this behavior that will change." She walked back into the house and closed the door.

Blaise gripped his hair, trying to keep calm. He had to get Alexandra back. Losing her would be losing himself. But he didn't know how to reach her. Now her aunt was a watchdog, not afraid to take him out if she had to.

He walked back to his truck then leaned against the door. When he saw the warehouse in the distance, his heart raced. It was a long shot, but she may be inside. If she wanted to hide from something, that's where she'd go.

He walked to the ladder. When he peered up, he didn't see any movement. "Alexandra?"

The hay rustled from above.

He climbed up the ladder in a flash and saw her sitting against the wall, her arms crossed over her chest. The bags under her eyes and the frown on her lips broke his heart. Her knees were pulled to her chest, keeping him away. "Hey." He didn't know what else to say.

She stared at her shoe.

He moved onto the landing and took a seat a few feet away from her. "How are you?"

"How do you think?" she whispered.

"I hate this."

"And I hate what you did." Anger escaped in her voice.

Blaise had never seen her upset like this. It was like she hated him. "I didn't do anything, Alexandra. I wish you would just believe me."

"You've given me no reason to."

"It's called faith. You know me, Alexandra. I'm not a cheat or a liar."

She ignored his comment. "Why did you have to ruin what we had?" She sighed deeply. "I'll never forgive you for that."

"Please don't say that. I meant well, honestly. My hands are tied. If I hadn't made a promise to Danielle, I would spill everything."

Tears streamed down her face. "You were everything to me and now you're gone."

He moved closer to her. "Alexandra, I'm not gone. I'm still here."

"Stay away from me," she whispered.

He didn't come any closer. "Do you love me?"

She stared at him. "That's a stupid question."

"If you do, please put some faith in me. I know you see the good in people. You see my heart and the love I have for you, only you. You don't seem like the type who doesn't trust people even when everything is working against them."

"Because I'm not."

"What we have is different, Alexandra. It's beautiful, passionate, real...please don't throw that away. It was an unfortunate situation. No matter how I handled it, I looked bad. I should have just rejected you from the beginning, but I was scared someone else would sweep you off your feet."

She grabbed a strand of hair and twirled it in her fingertips. "I don't even know you, Blaise."

"What? Of course you do."

Alexandra shook her head. "No, I don't. If you aren't with her, what happened with Danielle?"

His heart weakened. "I told you my hands are tied."

She glared at him. "I opened up to you and told you everything about me. Now it's your turn."

He sighed. "I can't break my promise to her."

She fidgeted with her hair. "Who's more important? Her or me?"

"It's not that simple."

"Yes, it is."

Blaise stared at her. "Okay." He rested his arms on his knees. "I've never been in a serious relationship because I preferred to sleep around." He looked at her face, seeing her stoic expression. "And I liked it that way. Danielle was no different. She and I had a purely physical relationship. She told me she was on the pill so we didn't need condoms. Then she said she was pregnant. I was depressed about the situation. I wasn't ready to get married or have a kid, but the more I thought about my future son or daughter, the more excited I got. And I wanted them to have two parents that were still together. So I decided to try to have a serious relationship with Danielle, but it was disastrous. There was never anything between us. When she had the miscarriage, I wanted to end the relationship, but she didn't. That's when I realized she just wanted to suck me into a marriage so she could get half of my company. It was a stupid mistake, one that I'll regret forever."

"That doesn't explain anything."

"Hold on," he said. "Danielle doesn't want our relationship to end. She'll do anything to keep me around. So if I told you the truth, broke my promise to her, she would just lie and say we've been sleeping together this entire time, to chase you away. I'm literally screwed. No matter what I do, I lose."

She stared at him. "Why don't you just kick her out?"

He sighed. "I just can't. That's the part I can't tell you about. There's a lot to this story. All I can say is, if I kick her out, she'll be in danger. I can't let anything happen to her because of me."

"I wish I could believe you." Alexandra tucked the strand of hair behind her ear. "Were you just trying to sleep with me?"

He met her gaze, keeping the anger back. "I'm offended you even asked me that."

"Answer me."

"If I were, I would have fucked you a long time ago. Believe me, I could have gotten into your pants on our first date. Don't insult me like that again."

She watched the anger brewing behind his eyes. "How many women have you been with?"

He didn't want to answer that. It would only make her despise him even more.

"I told you my number."

Blaise sighed. "It's over fifty."

Her eyes widened.

He didn't look at her, not wanting to see the disappointment in her eyes.

"Wow..."

Her reaction stung.

"Blaise, I'm nothing like that. I only sleep with people I'm in love with."

"So do I."

"You were in love with fifty people?" she asked incredulously.

"No, just one." He finally looked at her. "I became a different person when I met you."

"And why is that?"

"Because I love you, Alexandra. You're an amazing girl. I'm not as stupid as I seem. I know a diamond in the rough when I see one."

She hugged her waist.

"You can trust me, Alexandra. I promise."

Alexandra didn't look at him.

Blaise moved to the spot next to her and leaned against the wall. She didn't move away, and he took that as a good sign.

"Did you sleep with her when we were together?" she whispered.

He sighed in annoyance. "Fuck no."

"Did you do anything with her?"

He clenched his fists. "I never touched her. She never touched me."

Alexandra kept her gaze averted. "How do I know you're telling the truth?"

"Because you do. Trust your heart, Alexandra."

"It's lied to me too many times..."

"But it isn't now."

She pulled her knees closer to her chest.

Blaise leaned in and cupped her face, directing it toward him. Her eyes looked frightened, like she was afraid of him. He pressed his mouth against her unresponsive lips. After a moment, her lips caressed his.

Blaise felt his heart swell with happiness. Everything made sense when they were together. Touching her always felt right. Kissing her was always a dream. He could do it for hours, days, weeks. She was the love of his life. There was no doubt.

He deepened their kiss and moved her to the floor, crawling on top of her. A few moans escaped her lips, exciting him. If she kissed him, she must still want him. If he kept fighting for her, he'd get her. Her heart was vulnerable and he preyed on it, knowing he was worthy of her love. He would prove it to her.

Alexandra pushed him off then scooted away, breathing heavily.

Blaise's heart fell as their connection was severed.

She pulled her hair out of her face and hugged her knees to her chest. "You should go."

He swallowed the lump in his throat. "No..."

"I'm sorry," she whispered. "I hate hurting you."

"Then don't. Be with me and be happy."

"I can't."

"I'll prove it to you eventually," he said in a frantic voice. "We can take it slow."

"Never trust someone who lies to you, and never lie to someone who trusts you." She stood up and walked to the ladder. "I need someone that can give me that. I can't compromise."

"I don't want you to compromise," Blaise said. "I'll give you whatever you want. I'm just asking for one chance. I'll figure out how to protect Danielle while proving my innocence. Just give me some time."

She sighed. "I came here to start over. But all I did was repeat the same mistakes." She climbed down the ladder until she reached the bottom. "Please don't bother me again. I don't have the heart for it."
Chapter Twenty Six

Alexandra was back to where she started. Now she had to pick up the pieces and move forward. To cope with the loss, she didn't think about Blaise. At least she wouldn't let herself. Anytime something reminded her of him, she pinched her arm, causing a different kind of pain. One that wasn't centered in her heart.

She attended the fields on her own. Secretly, she hoped Blaise would accompany her. She didn't need the help, but she wanted to see him, talk to him. He was her best friend, the person she confided everything to. But now he wasn't there. It was like he disappeared.

She considered taking him back. She wanted to more than anything, but she had to stay strong. Going back to him would just put her in a relationship she didn't want to be in. She needed more in life. She deserved more.

And the idea of him being with Danielle kept entering her mind. She had no idea what she looked like, but that didn't stop her imagination. Even though she didn't trust Blaise because nothing he said made sense, she doubted he would ever betray her like that. But then she realized how stupid she was. She always believed people were loyal and would do the right thing. How many times did she have to be proven wrong before she accepted that fact? Not everyone did the right thing.

She focused on school and continued to work for the hospital. She quit working for Blaise, submitting her resignation via email. He didn't respond so she assumed he accepted it. He just didn't have anything to say.

Her friends were attentive to her, concerned about the depression on her face.

"Are you doing okay?" Gabe asked when they got out of class for the afternoon.

"I'm fine," she lied.

He stared at her. "How about we get some ice cream?"

"Ice cream?"

"My mom always takes me when I have a bad day. Even though I'm a man, she still does it."

Alexandra smiled. "That's really sweet."

"Let's go. I know the best place."

They got sundaes then sat by the window. She ate hers slowly, not having much of an appetite.

"I'm glad you aren't mad at me," she whispered.

"Why would I be mad?"

"Well, I told you I wasn't interested in dating anyone then I went out with Blaise right afterward."

He shrugged. "It's nothing to be mad about. You met someone you liked and you pursued it. Life is unexpected that way. It's why the world is so wonderful."

She breathed a sigh of relief. "I just didn't want to hurt your feelings."

"You didn't," he said. "Don't worry about it."

She smiled. "Thank you."

"But I admit that I was annoyed with your choice."

"Why?" Her voice came out weak.

"He's your typical playboy. He takes advantage of his status in life to use women like machines. He's been doing it for as long as I can remember, and the whores in this town don't care because they hope they can be the one to change him. I didn't care what he did because he was always honest about it. But he took advantage of your ignorance since you're new here. That's just unacceptable."

Alexandra swirled her spoon in the bowl but didn't take a bite. "It wasn't like that."

He stared at her. "That's exactly how it was, Alex. I hate to be the one to break it to you. He slept with you with no intention of ever sticking around. You were just his dirty secret." Gabe looked down at his ice cream.

"He says there's more to this story, but he's just not at liberty to talk about it. Sometimes I wonder if he's telling the truth. And I actually think he did care about me."

"Then why would he lie, Alex?"

"He was going to tell me the truth...he just couldn't talk about it yet."

"The sooner you accept the truth, that he's a lying piece of shit, the easier it will be to move on."

Alexandra averted her gaze. She didn't think she would ever move on from Blaise. She felt something special for him. But Gabe was right. She needed to let him go. "Thank you for the ice cream."

"Of course."

"I should get going."

"We're meeting at Rob's for dinner," he said. "You should come."

"I don't know...I'm not pleasant company right now."

"We won't discuss Blaise. And it's better than being alone, right?"

She nodded. "I guess."

"I'll buy you dinner," he said with a smile. He put his arm around her waist and led her to the door. They took separate cars to the restaurant and sat in their usual booth in the corner.

Lisa and Hannah both gave her a sympathetic look but said nothing. Gabe draped his arm over the back of the chair, touching her neck lightly.

"I just took Alex out for some ice cream," Gabe said.

Lisa nodded. "Forget antibiotics and drugs. Ice cream is always the best medicine."

"I always have Ben and Jerry's stashed in my freezer," Hannah said. "I had my heart broken too many times."

Alexandra knew exactly how that felt.

Gabe leaned toward her. "What are you going to get?" He handed her the menu.

"I'm not really hungry," she said.

"How about we split a burger? I'm a little full from the ice cream too."

"Okay," Alexandra said.

He smiled. "I hate onions."

"Me too."

"It looks like we're in agreement." He put down the menu.

The waitress came over and took their order. When she walked away, they talked about school and work, both safe topics. She knew her girlfriends were eager to hear about her relationship with Blaise. The fact that it was a secret made them even more interested.

Alexandra took small bites of her burger. She was a slow eater and was constantly teased for it.

"You have a little ketchup on your face," Gabe said. He pointed to his lip.

"Oh." Alexandra quickly wiped it away.

"It's still there," he said with a smile. He leaned in and wiped it. After he got the ketchup on his finger, he licked it. When he sat back, she saw Blaise standing at their table, a look of murder on his face.

"Alexandra, can I speak to you for a second?" The anger in his voice was palpable.

"Uh..."

"No," Gabe snapped. "She's not going anywhere with you. Now leave."

Blaise was much bigger than Gabe, could snap his neck with his bare hands. Alexandra didn't want a confrontation or a fight. He glared at Gabe before he turned back to Alexandra. "I just need a few minutes."

"No," Gabe said firmly. "Leave, or I'll make you."

Blaise's shoulders tensed as he moved toward Gabe.

"Don't," Alexandra said.

He stilled at her command and dropped his hand. After he looked at Alexandra, he grabbed a chair from a nearby table and pulled it across the floor. He sat down like everything was normal. "I'll join you, then."

"We don't want your company," Gabe hissed.

"The only reason I haven't slammed your head into the table is because of Alexandra. But that can change if you push me too far." His eyes shined with hatred.

Alexandra felt awkward. Her friends kept looking at their plates, unsure what to do or say. Lisa engaged Hannah in a conversation and they tried to act normal. Alexandra felt Blaise stare into her face, watching her intently.

"Do you want to leave?" Gabe asked.

"No," she said quietly.

"Okay."

Blaise leaned over the table, acting like no one else in the room existed. "How was your day?"

Her voice came out quiet. "It was okay."

"Are the fields doing well?"

"As far as I can tell."

Blaise held his hands together. "I can come out and help."

"I'm okay," she said quickly.

"How's Martha?"

"Her back still hurts but it's better."

He nodded. "Kane misses his friends."

She smiled. "They miss him too."

He stared at her. "You look beautiful today."

"Kissing her ass isn't going to change anything," Gabe snapped. "You cheated on her, you worthless piece of shit."

Alexandra flinched at the venom in his voice.

Blaise didn't look at him. "If I didn't love you so fucking much, I'd bury this shithead in my fields."

Lisa gasped at the insinuation.

"Tone it down, Blaise," Alexandra said gently.

Blaise looked at his hands for a moment before he stared at her. "I miss you."

Alexandra averted her gaze.

"And I know you miss me too."

She picked up a fry then returned it to her plate.

"Let's have dinner tomorrow. We'll have a picnic on the beach."

"Why are you making this so hard for me?" she whispered.

"Because I'm not giving up. I'll spend the rest of my life trying to prove myself if I have to."

"And that would be a waste of time," Gabe said. "You should just find one of your whores to entertain you."

Blaise clenched his fists on the table.

"Gabe, please stop it," Alexandra said.

Gabe nodded then fell silent.

She turned to Blaise. "You should go."

His eyes lost their light. "Can I come over tonight?"

She sighed. "No."

"I just want to talk to you."

"There's nothing to say."

He leaned toward her. "I love you."

Lisa's eyes widened. Hannah did a double take.

Alexandra looked away from him. "Please leave."

Blaise leaned back in his chair and sighed. After a moment, he left their table and walked out of the restaurant. It was awkward for a few moments. Lisa stared at her, watching her reaction.

"Wow," she said. "I never expected Blaise to act that way."

"I apologize," Alexandra said.

"I can't believe he's in love with you," Lisa said. "I've never heard of that before, and I've been dating Cole for two years."

Alexandra picked up a fry and ate it.

"If he loved her, he wouldn't have been fucking Danielle the entire time," Gabe said simply.

"Let's drop it," Alexandra said.

"I'm sorry," Gabe said.

It became tense again, the room falling silent.

"So, this is Alexandra?"

They all turned to the woman at the table. She had blonde hair, a tiny waist, and long legs. The glare on her face was full of loathing.

"What?" Alexandra said, confused.

"So you're the whore Blaise was cheating on me with?" she asked.

Lisa stared at her. "Danielle, back off."

"No," she said. "Nobody messes with my man and gets away with it."

"They're broken up," Lisa said.

"I don't give a shit," Danielle said. "Get out of that booth."

Gabe was blocking her in while Alexandra was pushed against the wall. Gabe didn't move.

"Come on, slut," Danielle said, putting her hands on her hips.

Lisa glared at her. "Alex had no idea who you were until last week, and when she found out, she dumped Blaise. Leave her alone. I mean it."

"Stay out of this," Danielle snapped.

Gabe stared her down. "I'm not moving."

"She's gotta leave sometime." Danielle crossed her arms over her chest.

Gabe opened his wallet and threw the cash on the table. "I'm taking Alex home so this bitch doesn't bother her." He stood up, making Danielle stand back. He grabbed Alexandra by the hand and pulled her out the door. Danielle followed right behind.

"You're such a coward!" Danielle said. She grabbed Alexandra by the arm. Alexandra twisted it away then snatched her wrist, squeezing hard. Living in New York taught her a few things.

"Don't touch me again." Alexandra glared at her then released her. She followed Gabe to the door.

Danielle chased her again, trailing her.

Alexandra spun around. "Violence solves nothing," Alexandra snapped. "But I'll smash your face in if I have to." She threatened her with her gaze then kept going, daring her to make a very stupid mistake. "And I'm not in high school. I'm an adult. I suggest you start acting like one too."

"Tramp," she said.

Gabe got her into her truck and shut the door. Danielle stayed on the sidewalk, glaring at her. When Alexandra pulled out of the parking lot, Gabe drove right behind her. Her mind was racing on the ride home. Danielle was just another problem that she didn't need. She tried to stop thinking about it and just concentrate on driving.

When she got home, she saw Blaise's truck parked outside. She sighed in frustration, not wanting to deal with him right then. He got out of the truck as soon as she arrived. Gabe pulled in right behind her.

When Blaise saw Gabe park next to Alexandra and get out, his eyes widened with hatred. He marched toward Gabe with a fist raised.

"Stop!" Alexandra said.

Blaise restrained himself but barely.

Alexandra turned to Gabe. "Thank you for following me home. I can take it from here."

"Are you sure?" he asked. "I don't mind sticking around." He glanced at Blaise then returned his look to her.

"My aunt has a safe full of guns," she assured him. "I'll be fine."

"Okay." He hugged her tightly before he walked back to his car and left.

Blaise looked even angrier.

She stared at him. "Please leave me alone, Blaise."

He clenched his fists by his sides. "Are you with him now?"

She glared at him. "Knock it off."

"I don't want him touching you. He's taking advantage of your vulnerability. He doesn't care about you. He's happy that you're miserable because he thinks he has a shot with you."

"What does it matter?"

His eyes widened and he marched to her. "It fucking matters because you're mine. I love you, Alexandra. I don't want him to mess with you."

"He's my friend."

"Fuck no, he isn't your friend."

"Calm down."

"No," he snapped. "I don't trust him."

She rolled her eyes. "You're one to talk."

He sighed then ran his fingers through his hair. "Alexandra, you're killing me here."

"I had a lovely conversation with Danielle today."

His eyes widened. "What?"

"She made it very clear she was angry you were cheating on her."

Blaise screamed. "Don't listen to her! She's just saying that so she can try to get back together with me. Don't let her manipulate you."

She turned away. "Please don't come back here, Blaise."

"I'm not letting you go. I don't care how long it takes. I'll regain your trust."

"No."

"Yes," he said. "We can be friends for now. Just give it time."

Alexandra walked toward the house. "Good night."

He grabbed her and pinned her against his truck. His face was close to hers, and his warm breath fell on her face. "I'm not asking for another chance. I'm taking it. You're too perfect for me just to walk away. I will fight forever. There's no point in telling me to stop. You belong with me."

Alexandra hated pushing him away. She just wanted to collapse in his arms and forget about the pain she felt. She pressed her face against his and closed her eyes. He pulled her to his chest and held her tight, his hand running through her hair.

The night deepened into blackness. Blaise never let her go, his solid arms caging her in. She savored the smell of his skin and feel of his chest. She used to feel safe in his embrace. The fact that she still felt that way irritated her even more. She wished she could just walk away and never look back. Resisting him was harder than she thought. She broke away and looked at him.

"Blaise, you're hurting me," she whispered.

His eyes sagged in despair.

"Please leave me alone."

He swallowed the lump in his throat. "I can't. I'm the man you need."

"I can't move on if you keep showing up everywhere I go."

"Because you aren't going to move on." His hand moved to her waist and held her tightly. "You can't walk away from me because you know you shouldn't. You're in pain because you know you should be with me. I admit my actions were wrong, but they came from a good place. I haven't touched anyone but you. You can trust me—better than anyone."

She stepped away. "I don't know what I can say to convince you that we're really over. Yes, I still love you, and obviously, I still want to be with you. But I'm not going to change my mind, Blaise. You clearly cheated on me with Danielle. Maybe another girl would forgive you for it, but I won't. You are just dragging this out. This is painful for both of us."

"We aren't over."

"We are. You'll realize it eventually." She walked toward the house. She was surprised he didn't try to pull her back. As soon as she was in her room, the tears fell down her face.
Chapter Twenty Seven

Alexandra had never been so heartbroken in her life. She thought Paul was the one who shredded it to pieces, but she had been wrong. Blaise was a million times worse. And he wouldn't let up.

When she went to the library with Gabe, Blaise appeared from nowhere. He put down his laptop and sat next to her like the behavior was normal.

Gabe glared at him. "Now this is harassment."

Blaise ignored him and typed on his laptop. He didn't speak to Alexandra, just sat beside her.

She glanced at him. "What are you doing?"

"Homework," he said simply.

"How did you know I was here?"

He shrugged.

"He's been stalking you," Gabe said. "Obviously."

Blaise stared at his computer.

She leaned close to him. "Why are you here?" she whispered.

"Why are you spending so much time with Gabe?"

Alexandra froze. "He's my friend. And I don't spend that much time with him."

"It seems like you do."

She rolled her eyes. "I'm not your girlfriend so it's none of your concern."

"We'll see about that."

"You should leave."

"It's a public library," he said. "I can study here if I choose to."

She sighed then turned back to her own textbook. Gabe kept glancing at Blaise, glaring at him. Blaise acted like everything was normal.

Alexandra read through her notes then started to brainstorm her essay.

"How's work?" he asked.

"It's okay."

"Is that doctor still giving you a hard time?"

She sighed. "He's a little difficult to work with."

"Have you considered going back to nursing?"

Alexandra looked away. "No."

He sighed, but kept his mouth shut.

"How's the cotton business?"

"Good," he said. "My life would be a little easier if I had my bookkeeper back."

She kept her gaze averted.

"Come back," he said. "I don't trust anyone else to handle my finances."

"I'm sure you'll find someone," she said dismissively.

Blaise stared at her then turned back to his computer. "I'm having a barbeque for all my workers tomorrow night. I want you to come."

"I have plans."

"With Gabe?"

She glared at him. "No."

"Not yet," Gabe said, staring at Blaise.

Alexandra looked at him. "Please don't antagonize him."

"Too late," Blaise snapped.

She grabbed his hand under the table. As soon as they touched, she felt the fire shoot up her arm. He squeezed, indicating he would never let go. "Please leave Gabe alone."

His thumb moved along her knuckles. "I think you need to tell him to back off first."

She looked back at her notebook and tried to pull her hand away. His grip was too tight and he held her steady. Alexandra gave up and let their hands touch each other. It was a nice comfort despite the pain of the situation.

Alexandra looked at the clock. "I should go home."

"You must be hungry," Blaise said. "Let me take you out to dinner."

Gabe glared at him. "Give it a rest, would you?"

Blaise ignored him.

Alexandra pulled her hand away and grabbed her bag. Both men stood at the same moment. "I can walk to my car on my own."

They glared at each other.

"I mean it," she said.

Blaise grabbed his backpack and shouldered it. Gabe did the same.

She rolled her eyes. "This is ridiculous."

"I don't want him to bother you," Gabe said.

"And I want this guy to stop trying to get his dick wet," Blaise snapped. "She's my girlfriend."

Alexandra stormed off and hoped neither one would notice. Of course, they both caught up to her. Blaise walked so close to her, his shoulder touched hers. When she arrived at her truck, Blaise came right beside her.

"Drive safely," he said. "Text me when you get home."

She glared at him. "Do you not remember the conversation we had the other day?"

"And did you forget everything I said in response? I don't accept the end of this relationship. We aren't over."

She climbed into her truck and slammed the door shut. Alexandra didn't look at them before she drove away. When she got home, she burst through the door, her annoyance leaking out of her pores.

"Bad day?" Aunt Martha asked as she put dinner on the table.

Alexandra sighed. "You could say that."

"Blaise?"

"Yeah."

"He doesn't understand the meaning of no, does he?"

"And I don't think he ever will."

Aunt Martha ate her food quietly, chewing longer than normal. "Is it really over between you two?"

"I think so."

"You think?" Martha asked.

"I think I've broken up with him ten times so far."

"Twenty should do the trick," she said with a smile.

Alexandra pushed her green beans around the plate, losing her appetite.

"Can you forgive him?"

"Of course I can."

"Then why are you ending it?"

"Just because I forgive him doesn't mean I trust him." She ate a piece of bread. "Aunt Martha, what should I do?"

"I can't give you any advice," she said simply.

"You're the wisest person I know," Alexandra said. "Please help me."

"I'm sorry. Only you know what you want."

Alexandra sighed. "Why does this have to be so difficult?"

"When has love ever been easy?"

"Well, that's reassuring. So every relationship I have is going to be frustrating, pure work, and painful?"

Aunt Martha smiled. "You want to know the secret?"

"Yes."

"Find someone who's worth all the effort."

Alexandra immediately thought of Blaise. "Uncle Mike was worth it?"

"Always."

She picked up her fork and ate the rest of her lasagna.

"Did that help?"

Alexandra shook her head. "Why did he have to lie to me? I would be happy right now if he wasn't such an idiot."

She smiled. "Men aren't bright."

"He says he didn't cheat on me, and a part of me actually believes him. But I've been so stupid in the past. His ex-girlfriend threatened me today for messing with her boyfriend, and even then I still want to believe Blaise." She sighed loudly. "Are you mad at him?"

Her smile disappeared. "I had words with Blaise. And they weren't good words."

"Do you hate him?"

"Of course not. I think he just made a mistake. I would like to believe him too, but I don't know if I can. It's hard for me to trust someone blindly. I'll always love that boy. But that doesn't make me less angry at him for lying to you. You're like my own daughter. Of course I'm on your side."

"Thanks, Aunt Martha."

She nodded then took the plates to the sink where she washed them and dried them. Alexandra remained at the table, lost in thought.

"Is there anything I can do for you before bed?" Aunt Martha asked.

"No, there's nothing anyone can do for me."

She kissed her forehead. "Good night, dear."

"Good night."

Alexandra sat in the dark for a long time, picturing Blaise in her mind. His beautiful blue eyes were always captivating. She could stare at them all day. Her lips burned when she thought about them. The short kiss they shared last week was still drilled into her mind. The fire exploded in her mouth, burning her completely.

The phone rang on the hook, startling her. With a sigh, she stood up and answered it. She assumed it was her sister, and she was grateful she called. She was the only person in the world Alex could talk to. "Hello?"

"Please don't hang up."

"Paul, I asked you not to call me."

"I just need one minute."

She sighed. She already had enough on her plate at the moment. Now she had to deal with him. "What?"

"I'm at Lowe's Diner in town."

Her heart fell.

"I know your aunt's address. It would be easy for me just to show up on your doorstep, but I'm not going to invade your space like that. So please meet me at the diner so we can talk in person."

"And if I don't?"

"Then I'll come over there."

"So I don't have much of a choice?" she snapped.

"You would if you told me where you were going to begin with. What's it going to be? Are you coming to me or am I coming to you?"

Alexandra ran her fingers through her hair. "I'll be there in fifteen minutes." She hung up and tried to control her breathing. Her life was full of drama and she was sick of it. She just wanted a peaceful life, no drama, no lies, no stress. Obviously, that was never going to happen. She grabbed her bag and drove to the diner.

When she parked outside, she sat still for a moment. She hadn't seen Paul in months, but she knew exactly what he wanted to discuss. After a deep breath, she walked inside and saw him sitting alone in a booth.

He stood up when he saw her, his blue eyes brightening slightly. His hands were in his pockets and he didn't reach for her. The calmness in his eyes soothed her slightly. She stared at the face she had looked at so many times. It was the one she saw when she woke up in the morning, the one she stared at when they made love, the very one that broke her heart.

"Shall we?" he said.

She sat down and leaned back, her hands in her lap. She didn't reach for the menu or look at him. She tried to find something to focus on. The wrapper from his straw was sitting on the table. She grabbed it and played with it in her fingers.

Paul stared at her but said nothing. The minutes trickled by, the silence so loud it was screaming in her ears. When she finally met his gaze, she saw the intensity of his look. It was the same face he made when he was emotional or passionate about something. But it was unpredictable. It could mean anything. He was just as likely to cry as he was to grab her face and kiss her.

"Thanks for meeting me."

"Yeah," she whispered. "But I didn't have a choice."

"Martha would have gunned me down if you really wanted her to," he said with a smile.

"Well, that's a little extreme."

He placed his hands on the table, folded tightly. "I wouldn't put it past her."

The waitress came over. "What can I get you?"

Alexandra fumbled with the menu. "Uh..."

"She'll have the French toast and I'll have the pancake combo."

"Got it." The waitress walked away.

"Breakfast?" Alexandra asked.

"I know it's your favorite meal of the day."

They had breakfast together on Sunday mornings. She remembered watching the football games on the couch, cuddled up underneath a warm blanket. The fall leaves would dance in the wind, indicating the approach of winter.

"I'm not going back," she blurted. "I'm sorry you wasted your time coming all the way out here."

"It wasn't a waste," he said simply. "I have to tell you something anyway."

"You could write an email."

"Like you would read it," he said with a smile.

"What do you want to talk about?"

"Our relationship—the end of it."

"We're never getting back together," she said firmly. "We're over." She felt like she was repeating herself. She just said it to Blaise a few hours ago.

"Before you say that, you should hear me out."

"It doesn't matter how eloquent your words are. It won't change the past, Paul."

"It might." He stared at her. "The past few months of our relationship you were completely unavailable. Every time we spoke, you weren't there. And what made it worse was the fact that you didn't tell me what was bothering you. The more distant you were, the more painful it was for me. I couldn't figure out how to help you, to help our relationship."

"That justifies nothing."

"Let me finish," he snapped. "I was depressed that I lost my girlfriend. We were still together at the time, but we really weren't. I reached out to you but you rejected me every time. You didn't even answer my phone calls most of the time. So I started drinking, drowning in my own sorrow. I still told you I loved you, but you didn't say it back most of the time. I still don't know if it was because you were ignoring me or just not listening. So, I met someone at the bar one night."

Alexandra felt her heart accelerate. "Paul, I don't want to know."

He stared at her. "I dropped all my personal bullshit on her, telling her everything that was going on with you. I felt like you already dumped me and I had no idea how to win you back. She was having problems with her boyfriend too. I listened to everything she said."

Alexandra averted her gaze, unable to handle what he was about to say.

"One night, we were both more drunk than usual. She leaned in and kissed me. I didn't stop it for a moment. When I realized what I was doing, I pulled away. I wanted to feel that connection with somebody, but if it wasn't with you, it wasn't right. That was the last night I saw her. I know you heard rumors about me, but that's what really happened."

Alexandra processed his words, her mind reeling.

"I cheated on you, but I didn't sleep with her."

She was still quiet. "I—I don't know what to say. How do I know you aren't lying?"

"We've been broken up for two months. I don't have any reason to lie. And I haven't been with anyone else while we've been apart. You can ask anyone. I only love you, Alexandra. I'm hurt that you would assume I would sleep with someone else."

"You still cheated," she snapped.

His eyes bore into hers. "Which never would have happened if you hadn't shut me out," he snapped. "I'm sorry you were going through a hard time, but you treated me like shit, Alex. I had no one to turn to. There was no way I could fix us. I was lost. So don't fucking blame this all on me. You still haven't told me the truth. I know you don't want to hear this, but I was completely justified in doing what I did. I needed my girlfriend but you refused to deliver. There is no relationship if only one person is in it."

"How dare you—"

"Shut up."

She flinched at his words.

"Take responsibility for your actions, Alexandra. Stop running away every time life is hard. Stop shutting people out as soon as disaster strikes. You were irresponsible and cold toward me and our relationship. I'm sorry for what I did. I really am. But you owe me a big apology."

She averted her gaze and stared at the surface of the table. She knew Paul was right. For two months, she pushed him away. She lied to him, said nothing was wrong. She camped out at her apartment but said she was out of town just to get away from him and everyone else. When he said he loved her, she was mute. When he broke down in tears, trying to fix their relationship, she turned a blind eye. "I'm sorry."

He nodded. "Thank you. Do you forgive me for what I did?"

"Yes," she whispered.

"I haven't spoken to her since. There's only one woman in my heart."

"You promise you never slept with her?"

He stared at her. "You're the only one, Alexandra. Why would I want anyone else when I have you?"

She played with the wrapper on the table.

"Now tell me what happened."

Her heart accelerated.

"You owe me that."

Alexandra sighed then told him the story. "I just fell apart after it happened. I didn't deserve to live. I didn't deserve to feel the love you showered me with. I'm a horrible person and I'll never forgive myself for what I did."

His eyes sagged in despair. He grabbed her hand and held it across the table. "I'm so sorry, baby."

She sniffed.

"But it wasn't your fault."

"Yes, it was."

"Look at me."

She did.

"No, it wasn't."

Alexandra pulled her hand away.

"I'm sorry that happened to you. Now I understand why you were so withdrawn."

"That doesn't excuse my behavior."

"I wish you had told me the truth," he said. "I kept wondering if I had done something wrong."

"I'm so sorry," she whispered. "I should have told you the truth. My behavior was unacceptable."

"It's okay," Paul said gently. "We both made mistakes. Let's put it behind us and move on."

Alexandra felt the panic descend.

He stared at her. "Doesn't this change everything? I've always been in love with you, Alex. That was never the issue. And I'm hurt by the way you treated me, but I want to work this out."

"But...you still cheated on me."

"That isn't fair," he said quickly. "You know it isn't."

He grabbed her hand. It felt warm on top of hers.

"Alex, please come back to me. I know we can't be exactly what we were before, but we can work on it. Those two years shouldn't be a waste. And I already know I want to marry you. I don't want to spend my time looking for someone else when I'm already in love with you."

Blaise popped into her mind and she pulled her hand away. "Paul, there's something you should know..."

His eyes darkened. "What?"

"There's someone else..."

He took a deep breath but didn't react in any other way. Moments passed and nothing was said. Paul didn't seem mad or upset. "You already have a boyfriend?"

"No."

Paul raised an eyebrow. "What?"

"I did have a boyfriend. We broke up a few weeks ago."

"Oh." He cupped his chin. "What happened?"

"Do you really want to know?"

He nodded. "We're still best friends. That hasn't changed, Alex."

"He—cheated on me, I think."

"You think?" he asked.

"He claims he didn't. His ex-girlfriend lives with him for a reason he can't explain. He said he'll tell me everything when he's at liberty to. But...I don't think I can trust him."

Paul stared at her. "I'm sorry that happened to you."

She stared at the sincerity in his eyes.

"But I'm surprised you moved on so quickly."

"I was too," she whispered. "It just happened. I can't explain it."

Paul seemed slightly wounded by those words. "Did you love him?"

Alexandra fidgeted in place. "I thought I did."

He took a deep breath. "Alex, you don't have to answer this, but did you sleep with him?"

The guilt exploded inside her. She kept her mouth shut, unable to crush Paul.

When she didn't say anything, Paul took a deep breath. Pain shined in his eyes. He closed them for a moment before he looked at her. The light had gone out.

"Were you with anyone else?" she asked.

"Fuck no," he said quickly. "Whenever I wasn't working, sleeping, or eating, I was trying to find you."

"And how did you?"

"I—I'd rather not say."

She shook her head. "I can't believe Abby told you."

"She didn't."

Alexandra stared at him. "Then how?"

"I took her out to dinner and pestered her about you. I knew she wouldn't give anything up. When she went to the bathroom, I copied her SIM card onto my phone and went through all her contacts that night. Since you aren't close with your mom, I called Martha first."

Now she felt guilty for accusing her sister of betrayal. "Okay."

"I know it was wrong but I was desperate."

She nodded.

"And I'm so glad to see you sitting across from me." His words held so much emotion. "You have no idea how worried I've been. I was afraid something happened to you, that you didn't have enough money, that someone was taking advantage of you...it was a nightmare." He ran his fingers through his hair, breathing deeply.

Alexandra felt the pain in her heart. "I'm so sorry I did that to you."

Their food still sat on the table, untouched. Her French toast was no longer warm. The butter had melted and streamed onto the plate. His pancakes were flat.

"Are you ready to come home with me?" he asked.

Alexandra shifted her weight. "Uh...I don't know."

"What's left for you here?" he asked. "We've cleared everything up. Let's go back to being happy together."

"My aunt hurt her back and she can't take care of her fields on her own. I need to help her. And I have school and work. This is my life now, Paul. I can't just get up and leave."

"You got up and left New York pretty easily." The accusation was evident in his voice.

"I can't just leave again. I'm sorry."

"What about us?"

"I—I don't know. You just dropped this on me, Paul. I thought we were over, dead. And now you just rewrote history. It'll take some time for me to adjust."

"We love each other," he said. "You don't need to adjust."

"It's complicated..."

His eyes widened. "It's because of this other guy."

She kept her mouth closed.

"I thought you were over?"

"We are."

"Then what's the problem?"

She ran her fingers through her hair. "It's not that simple."

"He lied to you. I'm sure he was fucking his girlfriend the entire time, using you on the side when he wasn't satisfied. I hate to be blunt about it. Men are pigs, Alex. He wasted two months of your life, preying on your naivety while he played you. He doesn't love you, not like I do. I admit I'm hurt you ended up with some other guy so quickly, but...this happened because of me, and I accept that responsibility. I'll give you time to come back to me."

"What?" she asked in surprise.

"Come back to New York with me and get adjusted. When you're feeling more comfortable, I would like to work on our relationship...when you're over him, of course."

"Paul, I just said I'm not coming back. A relationship between us...I don't know. It's too soon."

"You said your aunt needs help with the fields while she isn't feeling well. When she's back on her feet, she won't need you anymore. And you certainly don't need to go to school when you're already an amazing nurse, despite what you may think. Then we'll go back to New York."

"What do you mean _we_?"

"I'm staying here, Alex. I'm not leaving you again."

"What about your job?"

"I quit," he said simply. "You forget how well I know you. I knew this was how you'd react. I'll stick around as long as you want. When we're ready, we'll go home."

She was speechless. "Paul..."

"You're the one, Alex. I'm not letting you get away again. I'll do whatever it takes."

Alexandra leaned back in her chair, unsure what to say or do. Her life had been turned upside down by Paul's declaration. The fact that he hadn't cheated on her in the way she imagined, and the revelation that she had caused the situation to arise changed everything. But that didn't make her life any easier. It only made it more complicated.

The Next Installment of the Southern Love Series

Then Came Indecision

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