Chapter 31: Book 2 Chapter 5

Jenna

I could still feel his lips against mine as Benjamin drove back into town. I blinked back the tears, remembering how we met. It was on a Friday night, and I was at a party. I was standing all alone in the hallway, I felt like I was being watched from a distance. Then, I looked across the hall and saw him. Colton Davenport was the son of a preacher, but had this badboy persona. He oozed with dominance and control. He licked his lips and smiled at me. He was dressed in a button up flannel shirt and a pair of black jeans. When our eyes met, something ignited inside me. I wanted to wrap my legs around him and kiss him. He must’ve read my mind, because he did just that.

“You okay, Jenna?” Tommy whispered, scooting closer to me.

I nodded, “I’m fine.”

Ever since Tommy kissed me, it’s been awkward. Well, mostly me. Benjamin glanced in the mirror, watching Tommy closely. He narrowed his eyes when Tommy put his hand on my thigh, giving it a soft squeeze.

“Tommy, give the woman some space.” Benjamin warned.

“Please, just give me some room to breathe.”

Tommy clenched his jaw, but nodded and scooted away.

We pulled up to Tommy’s house and Benjamin glanced back to Tommy. The air was thick as both men stared each other down. Tommy reached over and took my hand in his, making me jerk my head to the side. Benjamin shook his head, narrowing his eyes. “Go home and cool off.”

“Come on, Jenna.”

“Let me clarify something, Tommy. Go home and cool off. Alone.”

“Jenna?” Tommy asked, a hurtful expression in his eyes.

“Tommy, I think it’s best if I go with them.”

“Jenna, what are you saying?”

I swallowed hard, “I think it’s best if we put some distance between us. I can’t—”

“Really?” Tommy scoffed, blowing out a harsh breath.

“Please, I just need some space for a few days.”

“Unbelievable. One visit and you're already going to forgive that asshole.”

“Tommy, I’m warning you.” Benjamin growled, clenching the steering wheel.

“Or what, Ben? You going to kick my ass?” Tommy chuckled as he cracked his neck.

“Don’t tempt me.” Benjamin warned, “Get out and go home.”

“Please, Tommy. I can’t deal with you, too. I need time to—”

Tommy sighed, defeat in his eyes, “You’re still in love with him?”

“I’m sorry, but I am. And, seeing him today reminded me of something. My child needs their father—their real father. Please, just go.”

Tommy exited the car and walked into his house. I leaned my head back and closed my eyes. I was suffocating—couldn’t breathe. I opened my eyes, looking out the window.

Chloe turned and asked, “Jenna, did something happen between you and Tommy?”

I nodded, letting the tears fall. “He kissed me, but I couldn’t move. I panicked and ran from him. I don’t even know why he did that. Not when I’m still in love with Colton.”

“Shit, that’s why he came with us to see Colton. He was marking his territory.”

“I’m going to fucking kill him.” Benjamin turned off the car, but Chloe grabbed his arm.

“Not here and not now. Jenna is upset.”

Benjamin sighed, “You’re right. I’ll just deal with him later.”

***

Dear Colton,

It was good to see you. I’m staying with Benjamin and Chloe for a few days—to clear my head. I want to apologize for Tommy’s behavior. It was childish and juvenile of him to act that way. Next time I come to visit, I’ll leave him out of the loop. I miss you so much, but at the same time I’m still upset with you. I will forgive you in time, but it’s going to take some time. One day at a time, right? The baby is perfectly healthy and kicking up a storm. He’s definitely got your genes. I’m due to give birth in early May of next year.

The next time I come visit, I want it to be you and me. I want to talk to you. Alone. Benjamin and Chloe have been great friends in my time of need. I don’t know if they told you, but I went to see your father once. I wanted to confront him for ruining you—ruining us. Don’t worry, he didn’t hurt me. At first, we had a heated conversation, but then I started to feel dizzy. I was shocked when he caught me before I hit the floor. He called for a guard. I just don’t understand him. He’s a murderer, but he also still has a soft side. To me, I think he’s got a personality disorder. It’s just a theory. Anyways, enough about him. I need to tell you something, but I’m afraid you’ll get angry. Please, don’t be angry with me. Tommy has been hanging out with me quite often. He’s only a friend. I promise. I think I might have given him the wrong impression. I haven’t led him on, but I think he thinks I have. One day, I went to the church and became angry with you. With myself and how everyone is always walking on eggshells around me. I was upset and he showed up. He kissed me, but I pushed him away. My heart only beats for one, darling. It only beats for you, Colton. I’ve always loved you more than a friend. Even when I laid eyes on you. Please, don’t be mad.

Love Always,

Jenna

P.S. I still love you, but I’m not ready to forgive you. Just give me some time, baby. I’ll see you on Tuesday. I’m enclosing a picture of my ultrasound I got at the last doctor’s appointment.