Frayed (Torn #2)(11)

Lindsey immediately spun around from the wide - open sliding doors. “Oh boo! Come on, we’re in Greece and you want to rest? I’m only going to let you off if you promise to join us once Emma and Bass come back, comprende?” she pouted while folding her hands underneath her breasts, making them pop out more.

I smirked. One thing I admired about my childhood best friend, Lindsey, was her power to use her body like a weapon. It came naturally to her, but when she’s on a hell bent mission, that shit is absolutely lethal—a definite must see. Just ask all the fallen, besotted men. It was never a wonder to me why Cece hated her guts—bitch hated Emma, too. I had reservations with Cece before, but she declared war when she and the skankerette club betrayed Emma that way.

“Yes, Miss Nazi, I hear you loud and clear.” I genuinely smiled back at my friend, a real smile after weeks of not having one. Lindsey blew me kisses before she took her wedge sandals off and went out on the patio. She certainly was not going to waste any time enjoying her heart out of Greece.

I made a quick glance at the man close to me, who stood confidently like a goddamned gladiator, taking in his features once again. Taylor Montgomery was your typical pretty boy. Blonde hair with hazel eyes, tanned skin, awesome six-pack, cherry-red lips and facial features that could easily make other people jealous.

Taylor cleared his throat and gestured towards the other end of the hall, breaking my thoughts. “Bass will be sleeping in Emma’s room since he gave me his. There’s two more available, so you get first dibs.” he played host and gestured towards the other two oak doors on the left.

I didn’t even bother checking out the rooms. I picked the last one and strode towards it. Surprise caught me when Taylor came up and managed to open the door before I did. How chivalrous of him. I murmured my thanks and strode inside the room, checking it out.

“Just in case you can’t nap, there’s a nice alcove half a mile from here. There are also a few taverns and a tiny fishing village if you walk towards your left. The family that owns the island have their own people, I guess. It’s a pretty tight-knit community. You’ll like it here.” Taylor stood against the door, his face animated.

Okay, right on. Could he shoo himself out now?

“Great, thanks for the deets. I’ll see you later.” I know my dry attitude didn’t match the earthy, light atmosphere of this place, but it was impossible to let go of my dark shackles. They’re there and I was bonded to them.

I was glad when he took the cue and bid me goodbye. I guess that smart brain really did work, I mused darkly. I looked around my room and felt right at home. The light blue and white color schematics worked and blended perfectly, along with the wide windows and the rustic accented furniture.

I placed my purse on the cushioned seat and started to take my clothes off. With only my underwear on, I slid inside the bed. The instant my head hit the pillow, my brain—for the very first time in a month—shutdown completely.





Chapter 5


Trista


I woke up when I heard Emma’s shrieking laughter. “Get in the shower now, woman! You can’t tease me like that and expect to get away from it.” I could hear Bass laugh from the hallway. I could also make out Emma trying to hush him, but Bass only growled and I suppose he picked her up since Emma sounded out of breath.

“Put me down!” A few heightened giggles, a light slam of the door, the house became quiet again.

I shifted on my side and smiled at the thought of them. Those two were crazy about each other. I’m glad that she’d stopped taking notice of Carter’s emails, but who am I really to say? If Harry asked me back again, I would most likely think about it for a few seconds and say yes. I admit, it’s beyond pitiful, but the heart wants what it wants. It doesn’t think for you, nor does it make decisions for you. It only beats like a drumroll, marching you toward the person who took your heart.

It’s deplorable to even think of him after all that’s happened, yet here I was, thinking of him, wondering if he’s thinking of me, too.

Languidly, I got out of bed and looked outside. It was dusky outside, and I could hear the light, chirpy sounds of cicadas. Beautiful, I thought as I closed my eyes and smelled the pleasing mixture of sea, fresh air and heady blooms. After a good five minutes of appreciating the view, I strode towards the light switch. I was surprised to find my luggage next to the door. Instead of going through it, I went to grab my phone inside my purse. There were still no messages or phone calls from Harry. I guess he really meant it when he said he will try to cut me out of his life. Well, good for him, I thought dastardly. I’m the one who went through the traumatizing shit and was treated like a piece of ass. Ah, great, just mighty, f*uking great.

Dejected, I opened my luggage and immediately gathered everything I needed and headed for the shower. Life goes on, with or without me. I best snap out of it before it forgets that I exist. I’ve been out of it long enough… maybe.

After a quick dry of my hair and light make-up, I declared myself ready. I wore a short, pistachio-colored, cotton dress and jewel encrusted, flat sandals. It was light and perfect for beach ambiance. I stared back at my reflection, a little unsure. “Happy face, Trista Stevens! f*uking put on your happy face!”

When I strode out of my room, I saw Emma and Taylor outside, laughing and drinking together. When Emma’s eyes saw me walk towards them, she immediately got up and gave me a tight, I-miss-you-so-much, kind of hug. I hugged her back with the same intensity.