MAXINE

“I know I do,” he replied, tucking a strand of my hair behind my ear. I leaned into his touch.

“Then don’t let me go, ever,” I said, just loud enough for Liam to hear. I knew he would hear. I wanted him to.

Ronan’s grip on me tightened. “I won’t,” he promised.

Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Liam stiffen. He was hurting, and I felt guilty. But I couldn’t let it show. I had to stay in control and keep playing this game. Because as much as it hurt, I knew ...