Chapter 76

New York traffic was no joke. In Beth's opinion, conquering it deserved a medal. As they cruised through it, proving right the term 'slow and steady wins the race,' the tension reduced and reduced until it finally died. A few minutes later, Beth chuckled.

Byron sent her a glance.

"Your left and right hooks are pretty mean."

He smirked then. "One of the essentials to being on the football team."

She just laughed and shook her head and he sported a smile of his own. As they pushed through the traffic, Byron kept glancing at her.

"Are you okay?" He finally asked.

The atmosphere was easy and light. She pulled in a deep breath, peeked at him and let it out. "I'm okay."

"I understand why you're leaving."

Her easy smile fell. "What?"

"I understand why--"

"You didn't say why I want to leave."

He shook his head.

"Why?"

"I know you don't want to leave."

"I'm only doing this because--"

"The pattern. I know, sweetheart." He reached out and took her hand. "I know."

She stared at him a while longe