Hollywood Ever After (Red Carpet 1)

r /> I nodded, half-hearted.

“You’re strong. And kind, even now,” he said softly. “When I read your manuscript, I had no idea it was true. I couldn’t imagine a woman that forgiving, that loving, that she would continue to give chance after chance.”

“It was stupid,” I murmured.

“You held on to hope. That’s not stupid.”

I admitted, “I was afraid, too.”

“Understandably.” His arms were warm and gentle around me. “I don’t know how you found the courage to leave.”

“I didn’t have a choice. Natalie came in and saw us. I hadn’t been able to catch myself when he hit me, so I fell and…that’s when I got this.” I pointed to my arm. The words spilled out. “I fell into my grandmother’s curio cabinet and shattered the glass doors. The noise woke Nat and she ran in to see what had happened. She was so scared. Until Daniel told her I’d fallen. Again. But seeing her, her fear, made me face the truth. I’d been putting them in danger every day. Me, the mother who was supposed to protect them. Leaving was the only choice.”

Josh’s face was ashen.

“God, I’m sorry, Josh. I don’t know why I just—” I choked.

“Don’t be sorry. Don’t be sorry anymore.”

I stared at him, my heart in my throat, before settling my head against his chest.

His hand rubbed up and down my back as he spoke, “I want you to share everything with me, even when it’s painful.” He kissed the top of my head. “You’re not a victim, you’re right. You’re a survivor. And as condescending as this may sound, I’m proud of you.”

I smiled up at him. “Thank you.”

His eyes traveled over my face. He kissed me once, softly, then tucked me back in against him.

We sat in comfortable silence until the water grew cool. Shivering, we had no choice but to move. He turned on the hot water and I leaned forward, grabbing the soap and washcloth.

“Let me.” He took the washcloth and lathered it up. “I’ll get your back.”

His touch was firm, rubbing my back. It felt heavenly. “You’re next,” I said.

“Fair enough.” I could hear the smile on his face. “So, where did we leave off? Books?”

I nodded, arching my back forward as he used firm strokes across my lower back.

His voice was soft. “On to music. Top four favorite groups and least favorite groups.”

I giggled. “I’m assuming you don’t mean lullabies or kids’ stuff?”

“What do you listen to when it’s just you?” He laughed. “I bet I know.”

I stared at him over my shoulder. “I bet you don’t.”

“Eminem?” He was teasing me.

He was in for a shock next time my iPod was around.

***

Morning came, the soft patter of rain waking me. I lay still, listening to the peaceful sounds of morning. Between the faint drumming of the rain, the distant sound of a train whistle, and Josh’s steady breathing, I savored the sleepy morning languor from beneath the duvet.

I rolled onto my side to let my eyes explore Josh as he slept. His face was half buried in the pillow. The relaxed planes of his face, the column of his neck, and the curve of one strong shoulder provided a glorious view. Looking at him made me happy. He made me happy. I smiled a very satisfied smile.

I wanted to do something for him this morning. Breakfast in bed? If there was anything to cook. I crept from the huge four-poster bed and slipped into my robe. I tiptoed down the hall and into the kitchen.

The large diamond glass panes filtered the light, bringing me up short as the splendor of the view caught my eye. I peered out the panes in awe. For such a gifted wordsmith, Josh hadn’t come close to summing up the vista.