Love the Way You Kiss Me (Love The Way Duet 1)

Taking a brief swig from my water bottle, I get the attention of Dane and Silas who have yet to speak, but luckily it doesn’t distract anyone else.

“I think it might be helpful for you to record your thoughts to share with the therapists at the Rockford Center. Either by writing them down or recording yourself. That way, you could maintain a connection with them, even if it’s through videos.”

Eleanor’s shake of her head is firm, although her eyes are luminous with anguish. “I don’t want to talk to a lens.” Every word out of her mouth feels carefully weighed. As if she’s balanced them all against the pain it’ll cause her to use her voice. “I’ve done that enough.”

“Ella,” Kam’s tone is pleading. He takes three long strides into the room at the same time that I speak.

“I like to talk.” I ignore the burning look I’m aware Cade is giving me. “I’ve got stories to share if you want to listen. Maybe share some with me?” There’s a note in my offer I wish wasn’t there. A smoothness in my tone, casual and inviting, that I don’t use with clients. One I hope the rest of the men don’t pick up on.

Clearing my throat and standing up straighter, I cover my tracks, motioning toward Damon as I add, “It can be easier to share in group settings.”

They all stare, even Eleanor. I’m aware of every inch of my body. Of my too-casual lean against the windowsill. Of the water bottle that’s seconds away from being crushed in my hands. I loosen my grip on it and meet her eyes. A semblance of a smile lifts the corners of her mouth. My lungs feel tight from holding my breath. I don’t let it out. Don’t even move. If she smiles right now, if that hint becomes something real, it’ll be an accomplishment.

Eleanor’s lips part, her brow arching as she eyes me, and—

“This will all be recorded?” Kam’s voice takes the weak start to an inquisitive smile off her face and draws her eyes back to him. He’s taken a step into the room to hover over her.

His comment is a rock through glass. Eleanor holds my gaze for another beat, and then it’s back on my brother. Cade nods at Kam but then quickly returns his attention to Eleanor. “Of course. You don’t have to stare into a lens. Cameras are already placed in each room.”

The details continue without me as if I hadn’t spoken at all, which is best. It takes great effort to ignore Damon’s stare that burns into the side of my face.

It doesn’t take much for her to agree. It’s a battle she seems not to want to fight.

He carries on with the daily schedule, the rest of us shifting in our spots, listening along with Eleanor. My heart beats too fast for what this is. A status meeting, essentially. A way to get the lay of the land. Time set aside for all of us to be in the same room before we’re on rotating shifts, in and out of the house, devoted to her care.

By the time Cade gets to the end of his list, shadows have fallen over Eleanor’s face. The sunset is on its last gasp. It’ll be pitch black soon. I peel myself away from the windowsill and reach for a lamp in the corner. With a gentle click, it bathes the room in a warm glow. Eleanor tips her face toward it like it’s the sun and all I can see are the dark circles under her eyes. What is it that keeps her awake at night? At first glance, she was striking, although slender. Too slender. After spending the last two hours watching her, it’s more than obvious she’s not well. Kamden Richards is full of shit. It’s not a misunderstanding.

“With that settled,” Cade announces, “I believe that’s the end of my agenda. That’s all the information we have to give you right now. Was there anything you wanted to discuss before we call it a night?”

Eleanor shakes her head. There’s plenty I want to discuss and unravel. Too much. I’m too curious, and I know it.

She’s already standing when Cade offers to show her upstairs. She clears her throat with a hint of amusement. “I think I can find the way.”

Cade gets to his feet, the rest of us hanging back although we’re all standing now. I don’t know what this woman’s been through, but I’m certain she has no idea what to expect from us. Even after hours of going over details.

“This arrangement included minor changes to each room I’d like to go over with you.” His tone is gentle, but not patronizing. Eleanor hasn’t been through the whole house yet. She should be aware of the cameras and intercoms.