Page 76 of Red Fire

“You’re right. It’s not like our relationship ended on the best terms. I’ll pack her stuff up and—”

“You should take it to her.” I hate that idea.Why did I suggest it?I feel hot all over at the thought. Jealousy worms its way through my veins all over again. I refuse to let it take hold. Creed is…he’s… I don’t really know what he is; suffice to say that he isn’t mine. We’re not dating. He isn’t my boyfriend. Creed is a fleeting moment I wish could be more, but isn’t. We can’t be together, but I want him to be happy. I want it more than anything.

“Nah! I’ll drop it off at her parent’s place. They can give it to her.”

That makes me feel better, but it’s a momentary relief when I think it through. If he was over her, he wouldn’t mind seeing her again. Hedoesmind. “Is it because you don’t want to see her in a mating circle bond thing? I can’t remember what it’s called.”

He shrugs. “I don’t know. I just… I’d rather not see her just yet.”

“If she lives in the city, it’s only a matter of time.”

“I’ll cross that bridge when I get to it. For now… You know what? I don’t want to think about her.” His eyes are a touch clouded.

Crap!He still has feelings for her, and knowing it burns me up inside. I have no right to feel this way. None!

I force yet another smile, praying I don’t look like I’m grimacing since it feels that way. “You should get going,” I remind him.

“You’re right, I really should.” He grabs a pair of jeans and a shirt out ofhiscloset.

His and hers.

Stop, Octavia!

We both dress. I wear one of his T-shirts. It suddenly feels a little awkward between us, so I go in search of pants, too. I take out a pair of sweatpants that are miles too big for me. They have a drawstring at the waist, so maybe I can make them work.

“Will you be okay by yourself? I won’t take too long.” He pulls on his jeans.

“Take as long as you need. I’ll be fine.” I shrug, trying hard to look relaxed. Like Aspen’s clothes still being here doesn’t sit wrong with me when it does. My mind is racing. I pull on the sweatpants and tug on the drawstring for all I am worth.

“You sure?” He frowns.

“Absolutely.” I nod a few times, tying the pants. They’re hilariously big on me. “I’ll make breakfast. Watch some television.” I work hard to hold back another shrug. I’m trying too hard.

I fold the bottoms of the pants as he puts on socks and his boots. Then he gives me a quick peck on the cheek and runs out the door.

I want to cry.

I want to run away.

I want to call him back and tell him… Tell him what, exactly? That I’m staying? That I want to try to make this work?

There is no “this.” No “us.” No anything.

It’s just sex. I need to get back home. Back to my dad, who is all alone after my mom died. It’s not just that; I need to get back to my life. Back to flying helicopters. I can’t stay in Mistveil, even if I’m sorely tempted. Besides, if Creed is still so hung up on Aspen, it would never work between us.

Right. It’s settled.

I need to stop feeling so much for him. I don’t even know him. It’s ridiculous. If I can’t keep my heart out of this, I need to go and stay at the castle until the next flight home. It’s just really great sex. That’s all! Since I want more of it, I’m going to keep my emotions in check.

I flop onto the bed. I groan when I catch his scent and the musky smell of our lovemaking—fucking, I correct myself. I can do this. I can enjoy the rest of my time here without getting too hung up on Creed.

I sigh.

27

Creed

I’m buzzing with nervous energy as I walk down the path leading to my parent’s front door. I notice that the roof needs work. Some of the shingles need to be replaced. The window frames need varnishing, as well. Come to think of it, the place could do with a coat of paint. I’ll get to it as soon as Octavia leaves.