Page 110 of Dangerous Attraction

"Because I'm meant to be standing on my own two feet, living life by myself, not relying on other people to help me get by. I haven't managed to do that."

She tuts, then places a tender hand over my face and shakes her head.

"I don't want to hear another word. You are living life by yourself and standing on your own two feet. It may not have been exactly how you planned it, but no one's life ever is. Who cares if you've accepted some help along the way. Everyone needs a helping hand in life at some point. You're one of the toughest people I know, Trix, and nothing you do could ever disappoint me. I will always be proud of you, and you should be proud of yourself too."

My vision blurs, eyes burning with tears.

"I hate when you're so sappy like this," I blurt, wiping at my face before the tears can fall.

Laughing, she wraps her arms around me and pulls me into a tight hug.

"You love it, really. Now, come on, let's get you home."

We don't speak on the way back to the clubhouse. The only sound in the car is the music thrumming through the speakers at a low volume, filling the space around us.

As we start driving up the long, winding road, past the trailer park, sadness washes over me, knowing Reeve isn't at the clubhouse, waiting for me.

I turn to Emery.

"Are you busy tomorrow?"

She shakes her head. "I have a class tomorrow morning, but I'm not doing anything after that."

"Do you know if Liam's busy?"

"Honestly, I haven't spoken to him lately. He's been studying non-stop, so we haven't spent much time together."

I sigh and glance out the window as we reach the clubhouse.

With my stomach in knots, I look back to my best friend.

I think it's time I'm honest with her and Liam about everything.

"Can you try to get him to come to your apartment tomorrow? I think it's about time I talk to you both, not only about my dad, but also about the feelings I'm developing for Reeve. I don't want to keep lying to everyone."

Her head whips around, and she stares at me with wide eyes.

"You have feelings for Liam's brother? Oh my God… wait! Is he the grumpy tattooed hunk you were referring to in your messages?"

Cringing, I nod.

"I feel awful about it, but I just can't help myself."

She laughs and shakes her head as she pulls the car to a stop outside the clubhouse.

"Trix, you shouldn't feel bad. We can't always control who we fall for. I'm sure Liam will understand."

"I'm just worried he won't."

"Well, I'll make sure he's at my apartment tomorrow, and I'll be there as moral support for when you tell him. I've got your back. Always."

Reaching over the center console to hug her, I squeeze her tight, then press a quick kiss against the side of her head.

"Thank you, Em."

Pulling on the handle, I open the car door and climb out, then grab my bag from the footwell and hoist it over my shoulder.

"Dad will come around, you know?"