chapter 45

Taylor cleared her throat. "She told me not to tell you if you asked."

"I know, but I have to find her. I need to make things right and bring them both back home. Please."

Taylor tilted her head to the side and stared at me. "She really loves you, Bernard. If you're not going to do right by her, then you should just let her go."

"I am going to do better this time," I maintained, my pulse quickening. "Give me a chance. Let me prove you wrong."

Taylor waved away the group of similarly dressed people who stood a few feet away. After a brief pause, they shifted and continued down the pavement. Taylor stood up straighter and ran a hand over her face.

"Rachel is going to kill me for this, but...I believe you."

"You do?"

"She's been miserable without you. I've seen how happy you make her, Bernard. And I've seen how good you are to Ron. I'll tell you where she is, but so help me God, if you hurt her-"

"I won't." I held her gaze and didn't look away. "Not this time."

"My family owns a cabin in