Why Him | Book 2

Prologue

Cole

The thought of what would have happened, if I didn't follow after her, down to the pier flashes through my head.

Tucker would have killed me. He's going to kill both of us anyway. Especially me.

You weren't supposed to fall in love with her, idiot! My inner voice shouts at me, as I stare into her brown eyes, still holding her in my arms, pressed against my Jeep.

It kills me to know that she was thinking about taking her life.

I should mind my own business, keep out of trouble. Stay away from criminals like that skinny dude I just scared off like a wild bunny.

But this peach haired girl is worth every bit of trouble. I knew I wouldn't be able to stay away from her the moment I saw her. Tucker's words and the promise I made to keep an eye on her at all times was unnecessary. I will never again leave her out of sight. That's something I swore to myself after I woke her up from her nightmare.

I'm also fully aware that she most definitely hates me right in this exact second. Because I saved her life. Because I saved her from her demons.

She needs someone who looks after her. Not because she's weak and can't take care of herself, but because I don't want her to end up like me.

In the past, I let my emotions control my actions and it ended badly. Not only for me, but my entire family.

I'm glad that Tucker and Kelly never judged me for what I did. And even more grateful that they both keep my little secret safe and secure.

Emily

The urge to punch him and scream in his face is as bright as the fire raging inside my heart. Why did he have to save me? Why me?

He wouldn't even have seen me sink into my painless never ending sleep. But just like Tucker, he kept me from it.

My heart is hammering against my rib cage. My lungs are still trying to get enough oxygen into them, after my hysteria down at the pier.

And at the same time, I'm calm. Floating above the ground in his arms. Staring right into his mesmerizing blue eyes. His words are still ringing through my ears.

"If you die, a part of me will die with you."

Is it possible that he's serious about this, or is he just using my vulnerability for his advantage?

I've only ever let toxic boys into my life, how would I know if he's being serious when all I know is being used and hurt?

Even though I should stay away from him, he has me wrapped around his finger and he hasn't even done anything special. He was just there for me every time I needed him.

It's like I'm the moth that is drawn to his flame.