Trial And Error

Chapter Thirty-Nine

Madison's POV

The California sun beat down on Madison as she absentmindedly strummed her guitar, trying to conjure up a catchy enough chord progression. But nothing stuck because her mind was elsewhere. Rowan was sleeping in and her parents were around probably relaxing before their flight tomorrow. The singer felt a pang of sadness that their little family vacation was nearly over, knowing they'd soon be separated by the distance between coasts again. But her parents had jobs to get back to, Rowan had school, and she had to get to writing her next album.

But one pleasant distraction occupied her mind - Kian. Madison wondered what the marine was up to right now. Was she out on her daily run? Working out in the home gym? Whatever Kian was doing, Madison wished she would drop it and come over as she promised.

Ever since Kian left last night, Madison had been unable to focus, angered by how much that simple kiss on the neck had affected her. She still reveled in the sensation of Kian's lips against her skin, imagining how it would feel in other, more intimate places. Madison regretted letting the marine walk away, wishing she had turned around and grabbed her arm instead.

Madison's mind raced with questions as she lay in bed last night. She wondered what kind of lover Kian would be. Her thoughts ventured further, imagining how the marine would be in an intimate setting. Did Kian prefer giving or receiving pleasure? Was she more dominant or submissive in bed? Just thinking about it made Madison shiver with desire. But she pushed those thoughts away, reminding herself she was getting ahead of things. The events of yesterday made it clear she needed to slow down.

Despite last night's events, it was obvious that Kian was not comfortable with pursuing their relationship romantically. At least not until they sat down and discussed it openly, which was difficult when one party was so avoidant. Madison was confused by the mixed signals - hot one minute, cold the next. What did it all mean? Did Kian's sudden change in demeanor have something to do with the conversation she had with Madison's mother? That was a question Madison considered asking.

Her father joined her outside by the pool, sitting beside her on the couch.

"Come up with any new songs yet, rockstar?" he asked, using his long-time nickname for her.

The endearment brought a smile to Madison's face. Her dad had recognized her musical talent and passion from a young age. He just knew his daughter was meant for stardom.

"Sadly, no," Madison replied.

"What's on your mind, Maddie?" His soothing baritone voice questioned curiously

She considered whether to open up to him about her feelings for Kian. Madison had no idea how he would react, though her mother had been enthusiastic about the possibility of them as a couple. Her dad was harder to read.

"Kian," Madison admitted.

"Ah. Your mother mentioned some things, so I had my suspicions,

Madison chuckled, "She's gossiping about us, to you of all people?"

"You know your mother she just wants you to be happy."

The brunette smiled, "Kian makes me happy."

"Good, that's all we ever want. She's a good kid- good head on her shoulders. It's clear she cares about you a lot to plan that whole birthday surprise. And it's reassuring knowing she can protect you." Her dad's protective nature showed through as he continued "She has a good soul, and her intentions are pure. It's rare to find someone like that Madison, especially when they have so many demons."

She got whip lash from how fast her head turned, stunned by her dad's comment. How did he know? Though on second thought, she realized she shouldn't be shocked - he had always been skilled at reading people after his long military career.