Taking Bella with him because stores in town were dog friendly, he walked inside and confirmed an afternoon delivery of grilling burgers, hotdogs, buns, and other things for his family to enjoy. He bought himself water with the money tucked into his pocket and took a long drink before tossing the bottle into a recycling basket and heading home at a slower jog.

The minute his feet found their rhythm again, he let himself think about Sasha and what he wanted from her. That answer was easy. He wanted her in his bed, his hands on her soft body, his cock buried deep inside her. Admitting that, he nearly tripped, caught himself, and accepted what he already knew. He wouldn’t be satisfied unless he had Sasha again. Deep down, he’d known the truth since her return, more so since realizing she’d been threatened and his protective feelings had shown up.

He didn’t think they had another chance at a future. He already knew that was impossible. He’d had firsthand proof that her life was everything he didn’t want. But he definitely needed to bury himself inside her once more.

He glanced at Bella, who kept pace beside him as they ran, passing other houses set back from the beach and admiring the sun as it shone brightly above him. Though he appreciated the scenery, his thoughts were on the woman staying with him for the next few weeks.

He couldn’t keep treating her like she was the enemy or continue to hold her at arm’s length. He already knew, when she was finished filming, she’d return to Los Angeles and her busy life, and he’d go back to writing and being at peace here at home. But before either of those things happened, they could enjoy each other while she was in town. And he’d just have to let her go when her time here was over.

***

Sasha woke up in a strange bed. Nothing new to her. She was used to hotels and travel, but as soon as her mind started to function, she remembered she was in Xander’s house because she needed protection from a stalker. No wonder she’d crashed hard last night. She’d been exhausted from a long day.

Yesterday had been tough and she needed to remain calm. She had a bodyguard now and was staying somewhere safe where she could unwind and work on the part she’d be playing in the movie. And try not to think about the danger while letting the professionals do their job.

The first thing she did was call Cassidy and check in.

Cass picked up after the second ring. “Hey! I hoped you would call soon. How are you doing?”