“But if I don’t report it, the assault charge will stand, and you might end up with a fine, at least, and possibly more jail time.”
“I’ve accepted that, Beth. I’d rather pay the five-hundred-dollar fine and spend the full six months in jail than have the Holts go after you.”
She pulled away and studied him. Exhaustion and strain etched lines into his face that made him look older than twenty-one and buried the contentment that usually graced his features.
“Are you sure you are all right?” she asked.
“Yeah. I’m just tired and wishing I had kicked Trey’s a*s a little more thoroughly. At least then I might actually deserve the assault charge.”
“I’m glad you didn’t. Not because he didn’t deserve it but because you’re better than that—so much better than him.”
He beckoned her over to his
