Chapter 127

“I won’t change my mind, Em. Don’t try. I’m a good judge of character, and that man reeks of trouble.” He’s agitated, his breathing hard, nostrils flaring.

I feel my own temper rising until I notice the lines around his eyes. They’re not deep enough. People always compliment my handsome father on his youthful appearance. But the lack of lines is more a reminder that he hasn’t laughed enough in his life. Kind of like Nathan .

It’s those lines that have me deflating and biting my tongue to keep from blurting out something I won’t be able to take back. I could never hurt this man that I love so much. He gave me all the smiles, even when he didn’t have enough for himself.

“If I’m desperate for anything,” I say, “It’s foryouto fall in love.” I stand and take my dishes to the sink, then kiss the top of his head on the way out of the Kitchen

Noah said he’d pick me up tomorrow at seven. Damn, I should have gotten his number. After the discussion with Dad, the last thing I want is for him to