That was the turning moment for me. Everything that happened between the three of us was born in that small kiss. Because I couldn’t be in Shelby’s life anymore. I couldn’t bring her into my shit show.

When the cocktail doesn’t do its fucking job, I roll over in bed and pull out my laptop. Curiosity has gotten the better of me, and I do a little search of Ezra’s name first.

First thing that pops up is his mugshot and public record. He did four years for attempted robbery, but I knew that already. I click on his social media profile, and his current picture sends a little buzz of regret through my system. He’s so grown now. Looking so much older than I remember him.

His current job lists a company called Hawthorne Wholesale and Manufacturing. I type the name in my search bar, and within minutes I see that this company doesn’t manufacture shit. What they do is distribute cheap China-made products with some modifications and personalizations, like “Girls Weekend on Wicked” printed on bright pink T-shirts.

So, that’s what brought him out to Wicked.

My tired mind suddenly remembers the kid I picked up this week who worked at the souvenir shop. I really hope those two are not related.

Moving past Ezra, I search up Shelby. Her profile is an open book. She’s a hospice nurse. Not married. No kids. No travel. Just work and Ezra.

I still can’t get over the fact that she just fell back into my life like it was nothing. I closed this chapter of my life years ago, and I’m not quite sure I want to ever reopen it.

Then a truly dangerous thought finds its way into mind…

If Ezra is involved with the shop where we picked up the kid, then it’s possible he’s involved in the new product floating around town. If that’s the case, then getting close to Shelby would give me an easy in. She was always so close to her brother, I’d be an idiot to pass on the opportunity to learn more about him and his behavior lately.

It wouldn’t take much. A little conversation. Maybe asking for forgiveness. Show her I’ve really moved on. I’m not the same man I was before. Build her trust and get where I need to be.

Then my heart cracks a little just thinking about what it was like pushing her away ten years ago. Could I handle that again?

Yes. It will be worth it to shut down the new dealer on the island. To keep my friends and Logan safe. It would definitely be worth it.

Shelby

My back aches as I pull into the parking lot of the apartment building. It’s past eight, and I haven’t even eaten dinner. It seemed like everything came down at once this afternoon, and I never stopped for a second. All I want to do is eat, shower, and sleep.

God, I hope I don’t get any emergency calls tonight.