“Yeah, Raven! Her brother, Simon, remember the name? We went to his funeral in June? That was her fucking brother, her big brother, who was raising a toddler on his own. She gave up everything to be at his side and give that little girl a good life when the mother stepped away. Then the unimaginable happened, and Presley found herself mourning her fucking big brother and helping raise a child. Not to mention, she lost her own mother when she was fifteen years old.”
Raven’s breath hitches, most likely thinking about the fact that Declan and his sisters lost their mom as teenagers.
“She has a terrific Dad and brother, but she still had to navigate through life without her mom’s advice and influence. Then another tragedy hit, and she is now taking on the responsibility of helping with Winnie. She works, she volunteers, she carpools and plans princess parties.
“More than that, though, she has the ability to brighten my day with one glance. One brush of her hand against mine, or one small smile, and my heart swells.”
I suck in a breath, trying to calm my temper and look around to see tears running down each girl’s cheeks. Even Charlie is crying openly.
“Why the hell would you even talk about the shit in the past? She doesn’t need to know the dirty details. Paris was ours, Raven. OURS! No one else’s. I know everyone has questions and theories of what happened, but I’ve never discussed it because there’s nothing to discuss.” I throw out my arms and point to our friends, who are watching with wide eyes and open mouths. Only a few people know exactly what happened: Declan, Robbie, Raven, and me.
At the time, it hurt because I do love Raven. But I didn’t have a clue what being ‘in love’ felt like, until Presley.
“And since now you’ve brought our business into the open, let’s clear the air. Declan fucking hurt you repeatedly as you figured your shit out. I was there every step of the way. Who knows what would have happened if I didn’t send you home to him. But I can honestly tell you, I’ve never given it a second thought. You were happy, and that’s all that mattered! I put your needs and love above my own. How could you do this to me? The woman I’m crazy about left here over seven hours ago because of you!
“You think she’s using me? For what exactly? Why couldn’t you be happy for me? I’d never in a million years expect this from you. I thought you wanted me to be happy. I told you to give her a chance. She’s an amazing person. She’s perfect for me! You know what that’s like! How could you?”
She starts to bawl, and Declan gives me a harsh look before tucking her to his chest. But I’m not done, snapping my head to the audience.
“You all knew? All day? We spent hours on that fucking river. What is wrong with y’all?”
“Man, we just heard. Tripp and I are with you. Let’s head back to Nashville.” Max tries to pull me away as my phone rings. Presley’s name flashes on the screen, and I move quickly out of reach.
“Baby, let me explain.”
“I wish I could.” Reese’s tone is flat. “I’m letting you know we’re okay. I figure by now you know what happened.”
“I found out about five minutes ago.”
“I’m not sure what to tell you, but we’re safe. Presley is hurt, extremely hurt. It’s not my place to say, but she’s crazy about you. Hearing how much you loved Raven did something. Finn, I think it’s best you stay away until you get that handled. Being in love with a woman you call your best friend is something every girl dreads. Presley is fragile…”
“Reese, I’m coming to her now. It’s not what you think. This is a misunderstanding.”
“Don’t come tonight. I’ve got her in bed, sedated with tequila.”
“It’s only seven.”
“Don’t judge us, Finn Black! She’s hurting, and that means I’m hurting. You’re a prick.” She slurs her words.
“I’ll be there soon, Reese. Tell her I’m coming for her.”
“Finn, you don’t get it. We’re not at home. I’m giving you a courtesy call, letting you know we’re fine. When I hang up, her phone’s going off. It’s up to her if she ever talks to you again.”
The line goes dead, and I drop my head. I have no way to trace her out here. By the time I get to a secure wi-fi, it’ll be useless.
“Ready?” Max brings my bag.
“No. She didn’t go home. I have to think this through. Raven did damage.”
“Shit, I’m sorry.”
“Me too.” I glance back and see all eyes on us. “On another thought, you up for a r
ide? Maybe we can—”
“On it, brother. I’ll stow some stuff on our bikes and we’re out of here.” He walks away.
Robbie, Gabe, Jimi, and Tripp come to me.