Happily ever hookup. (Book #2)

11 "Point Taken"

Edited 8th May 2020

Emily's P.O.V

He's trying to remain strong but I can see the confusion and hurt hidden underneath his hard exterior.

We're at home now, the evening chill blowing softly into the open window. I wrap my arms around myself but don't move to close the window.

My phone vibrates and I remove it from my bra, it's weird, I've done that for years, but I don't carry a purse with me and rarely wear anything with pockets so I had to compromise.

It's become like a habit to me.

I pull out the offensive piece of technology, feeling a tickle of vibration on my nipple as I do.

7.28pm Tara:

Keep an eye on Hunter please, he tries to be the strong and dependable one but we all know he's a softie at heart. Thank you for today. I love you.

My heart swells at the words I read. Hunter is a big softie, he tries to be all macho, an ex-soldier with a dad who could terrify the life out of Trump but most of the time, he lets his walls slip and when he does, he's the most caring, kind and compassionate person I've ever met.

7.30pm Me:

I will. Take care of yourself too. No matter what happens between your parents, I'll be here for you both.

Love you too.

I read the text again before hitting send, it's all very serious and consuming. I'm scared of what will happen though, I know we'll be okay, all of us, no matter the outcome of this mess.

Just to lighten the mood I text her again.

7.31pm Me:

I'm still here bitches, and I know everything. -A

In return, I get a laughing face emoji.

I smile, hoping I've cheered her up slightly. I meant what I said, I will be there for her. Not just her, all of them.

When my dad got sick and my selfish bitch of a mom vanished into thin air, they took me in as one of their own. Christine and Ken were so helpful and supportive, I could never repay them for their kindness but I can damn well try.

Hunter emerges from the bathroom, a towel wrapped around his waist. His tattooed torso glistens with droplets of water and his hair is jet black. It always looks so dark when it's wet.

"Chinese food for dinner?" He asks and I nod. We've been so busy that we haven't eaten all day and I'm starving.

"Sounds good," I say moving along on the sofa to make some space for him. He sits beside me and I curl my legs up under me, turning my body to him slightly.

His head drops back and he looks up at the ceiling, I rub a hand through his wet hair and his eyes close with a small but noticeable sigh.

"Why does this always happen?" He asks, his voice is barely audible. "Every time I get time with you something happens to ruin it."

I smile, it's small and bitter because it's true. It's Sunday night and our engagement party seems like a distant memory though in reality, it's only been two days.

I dread Wednesday coming, I hate him leaving me as it is, but with everything up in the air and the unexpected drama of his parents, I really don't want him to leave.

"Because life just loves fucking with people," I respond and he moves to cuddle into my side. He wraps both arms around my waist and rests his head on my breasts.