Chapter 226

“No.” But did being deceitful make her better than any of the people who had hurt her? “Well, some.”

“What happens to you if something happens to me? I’m sure you’re worried about that.” He frowned. “You haven’t figured out yet that I’m taking care of you. I’ll keep doing it as long as you let me.”

“You are paid—”

“Fuck that. This is personal. Maybe I wasn’t clear last night. Whatever this is between you and me? It’s not done. I feel it. I’m falling. And I don’t think I’m the only one.”

Her heart stopped. Was he saying he was in love with her? How could that both thrill and terrify her at once?

“Trees, I—”

“Look at me and tell me you don’t feel something when we’re this close. I know you’re afraid, but the way you’re looking at me…I’d swear you feel it, too. Your eyes say you want me to kiss you.”

Some foolish part of her did. It was wrong. Getting closer to Trees would only complicate everything, but he was so comfortingly warm. She had onc