Redeemed (Dirty Air 4)

The leader asks if anyone else has any questions. The panel remains silent, and everyone in the room is asked to leave during the deliberation.

We all exit like cattle. Noah and I turn toward a corner while James excuses himself to talk to a colleague.

Chloe finds me and wraps her arms around my waist. “You did amazing! I’m beyond impressed by your answers.”

I kiss her temple. “Thank you.”

“I loved all your answers! And to think you thought them up on the go. Wow,” Maya chimes in.

“Hey, man. Long time, no see. I’m digging your new look.” Liam wraps his arm around my shoulder.

“It beats the Duck Dynasty thing you had going for yourself. Did you even bother using the beard lube I got you for Christmas last year?” Jax offers me his fist to pound.

I frown. “I thought it was a joke.”

“No, man. Sophie loves that shit, especially during certain activities.” Liam winks.

Sophie hides her face in his chest, only giving me a peek at her blonde hair.

Some things never change. I forgot how much I missed the easygoingness of our friendships. A surge of shame hits me at neglecting them during my time of darkness. But like Chloe says, I can’t change the past. I can only make up for it now.

“I’m surprised you all came.” Something squeezes in my chest.

“We can’t miss the beginning of your comeback story. This is how legends are made, after all.” Elena beams at me.

I cough and look down at my shoes.

“And I’m guessing this is Chloe? I’ve heard quite a lot about you from Noah and Maya.” Jax smiles at Chloe.

“Oh.” Chloe’s cheeks flush.

“I’d like you all to formally meet Chloe, my girlfriend.”

Her arms tighten around my waist as everyone assesses her.

She’s pretty. Sophie mouths before winking at me.

“It’s nice meeting you all.” Chloe grins.

“Is it really?” Noah smirks. “Don’t lie. The four of them are way less cool than Maya and me.”

“Wait, has Maya hung out with you and not said anything?” Sophie’s blue eyes bounce between her best friend and Chloe.

Chloe nods her head in all four directions, not giving anyone a clear answer.

I crack up at her anxiousness. “Don’t mind Sophie. She tends to get jealous.”

“Of what? Being kept secrets from? You have a girlfriend. You’ve never had a girlfriend besides that one girl from grade school,” Sophie sputters.

“Honestly, I thought you were gay for about point five seconds, but then Maya told me that wasn’t true.” Elena raises her hand.

“You thought I was gay?” My mouth drops open.

Elena nods.

I groan. “Is it too late to hide again? Chloe, are you in favor?”

Her body shakes from silent laughter. “Nope. I think you’re right where you belong.”