Howard shook his head.
It didn't hurt now, but what about then?
He was only seven when his hearing was destroyed. It must have been excruciating.
Howard was wonderful, but he was Steven's brother.
His shattered musical dreams, his lifelong disability—all because of my father. How could I even bear to think about it?
Yet Howard said, "Maeve, stop loving Steven. Love me instead."
His gaze burned with fiery sincerity, something Steven and I could never reclaim.
Avoiding my wounds, he gathered me carefully into his arms like a priceless treasure.
"I came back for the money." For the first time since my return, the lie felt shameful on my tongue.
Howard just kissed my palm. "Good. My wealth rivals Steven's."
His kiss held no desire, yet it unnerved me completely.
I was speechless.
T
