Chapter 24: Forgot To Tell You Something: Chapter 24

“I’ll meet you at the apartment,” Tally says, forcing a smile as she digs out her keys.

I snatch the keys from her hand, shoving them in my pocket. “Nice try. We’re leaving your car here.”

“But I need my car—”

“We’ll use my car. This is not an argument you’re going to win. Now, you can get into my car or you can go digging for your keys.” I have to speak Tally’s language. Namely, sarcasm with a challenge.

I see her weighing her options, before sliding into my passenger side seat.

I glance over at her, my heart breaking. She looks so small and lost. “Would you rather take care of the planning first or go home and rest?”

She shrugs as a fat tear rolls down her cheek, underneath her glasses. “Might as well get the planning done. It’s not involved. My father didn’t want a big funeral. Hated the idea of a bunch of strangers standing around and pretending they gave a crap.”

“Sounds like my Dad. He didn’t want a ceremony. Told me and my mom to scatter his ashes in the North Carolina mountains he loved so much.”

“Do you miss North Carolina?”

“I love the mountains, and the change of seasons. Plus, my family is there.”

“So, that’s a yes,” she offers, her delicate fingers tracing along the dash, creating aimless designs.

“I’ll take you to my home one day. You’ll love it, Tally.”

She doesn’t respond. She doesn’t have to. I see the doubt and uncertainty in her face. I may be less than six feet from her, but I’m miles away from the door to her heart.

We spend the new few hours making funeral arrangements and ensuring everything is just as Mr. Knowles would want it. In summary—little to no fanfare. But that’s easy compared to what lies ahead.

My girl has to say goodbye to her father before his body heads to the crematorium.

She’s shaking when I park at the funeral home, unable to stop the onslaught of tears dripping down her cheeks. “I don’t think I can do this,” she whispers, and my heart shatters under the weight of her pain.

I grasp her hand, running my thumb along hers. “You’re the strongest woman I know. You can do this, Tallulah Knowles, and I’ll be right there beside you the whole way.”

Finally, she meets my gaze, forcing a small smile. “Promise?”

“I promise, Darlin.” I’m a strong man. I pride myself on the ability to present a brave face to the world. But I’m scared shitless. This is not your normal, run-of-the-mill errand. The woman I love has to tell her last goodbye to the body that held her father, and I’m not sure how she’s going to handle it. How either of us will handle it.

The funeral director leads us to a room, sliding the door closed behind us. There, in a simple coffin, lies the body of Mr. Knowles. Tally squeezes my hand and I press my lips to her fingers. She needs to know I’m here. I’m not going anywhere.

With a deep breath, she releases my hand and walks to the casket, her fingers gripping the side as she gazes down at her Dad. Then I hear the impossible. A chuckle.

“You okay, Darlin?”

She holds up the bag of clothes she brought for his final journey. “My father never got over his love of plaid pants. The more ridiculous, the better. He and I used to argue that when he died, I would bury him in a sensible navy suit.”

I join her at the coffin, trying to read her emotions. “I guess he didn’t like that idea?”

“Hated it,” she giggles. She opens the bag, pulling out a ridiculous pair of plaid pants in a mix of orange, green, and blue. “You won, Dad. Here’s to going out in style.”

And then she breaks. Thankfully, I’m there to catch her in my arms, pulling her tight against me as the cries wrack her tiny frame. If I could, I’d take on every ounce of her pain, but all I can do is hold her until the sobs ease and her body softens against mine.

Tally gazes up at me, wiping her face and nose. “I must look awful right now.”

That’s a lie. She’s never been more beautiful, even with the puffy eyes and reddened face. She’s so genuine, so tangible. She’s everything I never knew existed in this world. “You’re always gorgeous.”

“Liar,” she laughs, pushing off me. “Would you give me a few minutes?”

I nod, stepping outside the door. I hear her speaking to her father, but I can’t make out the words. They’re not for me to hear. I text my mother and let her know what’s happened. It’s ironic. In all my years with Charlotte, my mother never warmed to her. It took thirty seconds for her to adore Tally.

The door opens and Tally steps out, nodding at the funeral director. “I’m ready to go.”

We arrive back at her apartment, and I pull the bottle of vodka from the freezer. I know it’s a dick move, but maybe after the events of today, she’ll talk.

I pour two shots, holding one out to her. “You’ve earned this.”

Tally shakes her head, solidifying her pregnancy in my brain. “I’ve got a headache.”

“Vodka cures everything, haven’t you heard?”

“I’m going to take a shower.”

I want to join her. Hell, I’m tempted to sneak in behind her and kiss away the pain. But I hold back. It’s definitely not the right time.

Tally passes out in bed right after the shower, her last remnants of energy drained. I tuck her in, stealing a kiss for the first time in almost a week. Christ, I miss this woman.

But I have another problem to deal with—and her name is Charlotte. My phone has been blowing up, with calls and texts from my ex.

The woman can’t be serious.

I step onto Tally’s porch, noting how the one side sags with age. No way will I let her stay here much longer. Not happening.

I answer the incoming call on the first ring. Time to put Charlotte back in her place. “This is not a good time.”

“How is she?”

“Do tell me you called ten times and texted ten more to inquire how Tally is feeling.”

“No, but it seemed the courteous thing to ask.”

I release a groan, scrubbing my face with my hand. “What do you need, Charlotte?”

“I’ve sent out the invitations for the banquet, and we’ve already gotten quite the response.”

“That’s great.” It is great. The more investors involved, the less the Auerback family needs to contribute, and I won’t feel indebted to them again.

“I want you to accompany me to the dinner.”

“As your date?”

“Don’t sound so horrified. Not as a date, just an escort. We are the two people spearheading this facility, Owen. It would make sense.”

“I disagree.”

“Will you at least consider it?”

A headache brews behind my eyes. “Charlotte, please don’t push this issue. Especially not today. I have to go. Do you need anything else?”

There’s a few seconds pause before she sighs, letting me off the hook—and call. “No. We can discuss the details at another time. Goodnight.”

“Is she angry?”

I whip around. Tally is standing in the doorway, biting her lower lip. Wonderful. This is all she needs. Part of me wants to pretend it wasn’t Charlotte on the phone, but I’ve seen how well dishonesty has worked in the past. “She wanted to see how you were doing.”

I see Tally chewing the words, tasting them for sincerity. “That’s kind of her. I’m fine, if you need to go.”

“I don’t need to go.” I close the distance between us, stiffening when her hands raise, blocking any additional forward movement.

“You’ve been a tremendous help, Owen, but Stefani will be here any minute. Go, take care of Charlotte.”

“I told you earlier, Charlotte can take care of herself.”

“So can I, Owen.”

“I know you can, but dammit, Tally, I to take care of you.”

“Because you think I need the help?” Tears bubble in her eyes again, and I can only imagine what mental film reel is rolling in her brain, starring me and my ex-fiancée.

“No, because I love you. I love every single, sexy, saucy inch of you.”

“Was she a model? She looks like one.”

I hate where this conversation is headed. “Yes, she modeled a bit in Europe.”

There goes that lip biting again. She motions to herself, then throws up her hands and shrugs. “I don’t get it.”

“Get what?”

“She’s gorgeous, filthy rich, and connected. I’m none of those things—”

“You sure as hell are gorgeous. Don’t let me hear you say that again.”

“Or what?”

There she is. My sultry vixen coming out to play. Even if it’s only for a minute, I’m so damn happy to see her. “I’ll find all sorts of ways to pleasure—I mean punish you.”

“Tell me why, Owen.”

“Darlin, I don’t know what you’re asking.”

“Why are you here?”

“I love you, Tally.”

“You don’t even know me.”

“I know you. I’ve known you since before this lifetime.” I send her a narrowed look. “Don’t deny it, either. I know damn well that you feel the same way.”

Her gaze drops to her t-shirt as she picks off imaginary lint. “You were a great friend today.”

Oh Jesus, please don’t tell me I’ve landed in the friend zone. “I’m much more than a friend.”

“I can’t handle anything beyond friendship right now.”

Houston, we have a situation.

I stare at her beautiful, tear-stained face and trembling lips, realizing that she doesn’t need additional stress. If Tally is setting boundaries because of my behavior, I need to respect them, even though I loathe them. “I’ll be whatever you need, Darlin.”

There, that should cover all the bases.

Her front door opens and Stefani walks in, preventing any further conversation. She smiles, giving me a peck on the cheek. “Thank you.”

I force a smile, even though I feel like I took a knife to the gut. At least I’m in her life again. Now comes the hard part—convincing her to fall for me one last time.

I leave thirty minutes later. Tally is safe with her friend, and I’m in desperate need of a drink.

I’ve been sidelined by the woman I’m in love with, and I can’t blame her. I failed to tell her the whole truth—twice—and now, my past has pushed its way into my present, mucking up everything in its path.

But today, when Tally’s world fell apart, she clung to me. I was her lifeline.

I know there’s hope and I’m like a tenacious bulldog, holding on to that glimmer at the end of a shit-laden tunnel.

The days between Mr. Knowles’s death and the funeral were rainy and depressing. But on the day of his service, the sun is shining brightly.

I’m running a few minutes behind, adjusting my tie as I walk to the gravesite. Per her father’s wishes, the service is simple. A group of about forty people stand around the grave, and I’m certain Tally is shocked by the turnout.

She didn’t think anyone would show. But it turns out Mr. Knowles is as beloved as his daughter. I catch sight of Tally, her head resting on Stefani’s shoulder. She’s lucky to have a friend like that. Hell, they’re both lucky. Genuine friendships are rare in this world.

Dan stands at her elbow, nodding in my direction when he catches sight of me. I’m not sure if he approves of my continued quest to win back Tally’s love or if he’s acting as a sentry to protect her from me—either way, I’m not caving until she’s back in my arms.

The minister finishes, mentioning that Tally would like to say a few words. She takes the microphone and even from this distance I see her slight hands tremble. I close the space between us until only a few feet separate me from the woman I love.

“I’m overwhelmed that you all came to see my Dad off on his next journey. Adventure, as he’d like to say. Maybe it was the plaid pants that attracted you all.” A hum of laughter carries through the group, and even my beautiful girl manages a tremulous smile. “I hate that he’s gone, but I know he’s whole again, and he’s with my Mom. I can’t imagine the parties they’ve been holding in heaven since his arrival. I’m serious, the man could drink us all under the table.”

God, she’s gorgeous. So raw and real. Loving her is the single most right thing I’ve ever done in my life.

“He would hate all this crying and sadness. He’d tell me to rub dirt on it and get on with it.” Her hand rests on the tombstone, tears streaming down her face. “He said he would visit us, let us know he’s okay. I’m holding you to that, Dad, because even though you’re okay, I’m not sure I am. I’ll love you forever.” She breaks, her body trembling with sobs, and I’m at her side in a few long strides.

I pull her to me, hoping I can hold her tight enough to ease the pain. “It’s okay, Darlin. Let it out.” I stroke her dark hair, my lips pressed against her head as she collapses against me.

Mourners and well-intentioned friends break into the moment, paying their respects with a kind word or pat on the shoulder. I stand my ground, my Tally tucked into me, shielding her from the onslaught.

“I think you would have liked him,” she mumbles against my chest.

“I did.”

Her head jerks up, a look of confusion crossing her features. “What?”

“I met him, Wildflower.”

Her hand flies to her mouth as a fresh supply of tears stream down her cheeks. “When?”

“Last week.”

“He spoke to you?”

I nod, reaching into my pocket to grab the drawing, but Stefani’s voice cuts into our privacy.

“Hi, Owen. Will you be joining us at the restaurant?”

Crap. “I want to, but I have a meeting—”

Tally shakes her hand, dispelling my worries. “You’re fine.”

“I’ll cancel it,” I blurt, pulling out my phone. If Tally needs me, screw the meeting. Yes, it’s an important meet and greet, with a potential whale of an investor, but Tally is more important. She’ll always come first. That’s what I swore that night in my office. I plan on living up to that promise.

Tally stays my hand. “No need to cancel. I’m okay. Hungry and tired, but okay. Thank you for coming, Owen. You didn’t have to.”

“Yes, I did.”

“You’ve been a wonderful friend through all of this.”

I cringe at the use of the term friend. I get it, I do, but I still hate it. “I would do anything for you. I’m serious, say the word, and I’ll cancel that meeting.”

“Go on.” Tally stands on tiptoe, brushing her lips against my cheek, before walking off with Stefani and Dan.

I watch her leave, sandwiched between her friends, her tiny frame supported by their love. I’m on the outside, looking in, and I’m not sure where to find the key to unlock her door again.

“What are you doing here?” Dan inquires, leaning against the door of Tally’s apartment.

I can’t put my finger on it, but the way Dan held Tally at the funeral is rubbing me wrong. Maybe I’m just a jealous fuck and holding my girl drives me nuts.

“I wanted to check on Tally. I brought her dinner.”

Dan waves me into the apartment. “I already brought her dinner, but hey, the more the merrier, right?”

No. Wrong, actually. I force a nod, my lips pursed. I know I have no right to say anything. At least, that’s what I keep repeating in my head.

“Hey, you’re a surprise.” Tally walks out of the bedroom, wearing a baggy t-shirt and shorts. I know she’s dressed down, but she looks good enough to eat, and that thought is enough to make my dick twitch. “How was your meeting?”

I know what she means. “It was fine. Productive.” I meet her gaze and hate the next words that fall from my mouth. “Charlotte sends her regards.”

If the statement flusters Tally, she doesn’t let it show, save for a small, sad smile crossing those full lips.

Lips I want wrapped around my cock; my hand twisted in her hair as she drives me out of my ever-loving mind.

“Tell her I said thank you, the next time you’re together.”

“I won’t be seeing her,” I argue, but Tally has already moved on in the conversation. She plops onto the couch, a carton of Chinese balancing on one knee as she fiddles with the chopsticks.

She’s terrible with chopsticks, but she tries every time. And every time, more food hits her lap than her mouth. It’s the cutest damn thing in the world.

True to form, a pea pod hits her thigh, but any cuteness factor flies out the window when Dan snags it off her leg, popping it into his mouth.

What. The. Fuck.

“Am I going to have to get you a bib?” Dan ribs, tossing her a roll of paper towels.

Tally smirks, holding up the roll. “Nah, this should do. Have a seat, Owen. There’s plenty of food.”

I have two choices—storm out and look like a total ass or sit here and brood, looking like a total ass.

I go with option two because Dan should leave shortly. He’ll take the hint. Bros before hoes and all that shit.

Wrong.

“I brought a change of clothes, so I can stay. I don’t want you alone.” I force a smile at her from across the coffee table, hating Dan more and more for his proximity to her on the couch.

“No worries, man. I’m staying here tonight.”

I repeat. What. The. Fuck. My brows raise and I can’t hide my surprise. “You are?”

Dan nods, popping a dumpling into his mouth. “Yeah, Stefani has to work tomorrow and I’m off. Easy choice.”

“Or you can go, and I’ll stay with Tally.” Just like that, a chill settles over the room. Dan’s gaze holds mine as I dare him to look away. Or disagree.

Tally looks between the two of us, forcing a smile. “Dan and I are heading up to West Palm tomorrow.”

Oh, now it’s a sleepover a date. “What for?” I know I’m scowling. Now ask me if I care.

“I’m working with a tattoo artist up there, finishing a piece. I asked Lu to tag along.”

I tap my foot on the floor; the vibrations shaking everything on the coffee table. “Since you two are all cozy, I’ll head on home. Call me if you need me, Tally.”

I offer a stiff nod, before stalking to the door and throwing it open. I’m beyond livid. The worst part? I don’t have a leg to stand on.

“Aren’t you going to say goodbye?”

I turn and see Tally leaning against the door frame, a knowing smirk on her face.

“Didn’t realize I was interrupting.”

“You aren’t. Well, you interrupted dinner, but we managed to eat with you here.”

She’s joking, but I’m not in the mood. “Right. I’ll see you later, Tally.”

I hear her laugh and whip around, glaring in her direction. “What’s so funny?”

“Would this sudden frostiness have anything to do with Dan?” Her words mimic my own, used against her with Nicole. She closes the distance between us, pressing a kiss to my cheek. “Just admit that you’re jealous, Owen.”

“Is there something going on?”

Tally shakes her head. “Friends shouldn’t be jealous of friends. Remember?”

I don’t think so.

I crush her body to me, my mouth claiming what is rightfully mine. I dominate her, pushing my tongue into her mouth and swallowing any arguments. My hands twist in Tally’s hair, locking her in the kiss until I’m damn ready to let her go. She yields against me, and I take it one step further, backing her against the outside wall. My hand slips past her waistband, and I slide a finger inside her, feeling her clench around me.

I curve my fingers around, feeling her moan into my mouth as I push her over the edge, her hips arching toward me. I pull back, smiling at the flush crossing her pale skin.

My hand rests lightly around her throat, tipping her chin up, my forehead pressed to hers. “I’m not your damn friend, Tally. Remember? You belong to me.”