Chapter 42

Nick

The devil on my right shoulder is completely at odds with the angel on the left. He's telling me to take what I want, she's telling me to do what I know is right. Me? I'm at odds. For once to not be the guy who doesn't think he deserves shit. I've been denying myself for so long, but at the same time, I've also been denying Kelsea what she wants and what she deserves.

"Take it, Nick," she whispers, holding her palm against mine. Her eyes are closed as she continues whispering the words almost like a prayer. "Please, just take it."

In the end, it's not because of my needs and wants, it's the desperation in her voice, the way it catches on the last word that rocks me out of my stupor. It's the fact she still wants me, no matter how many times I've hurt her, no matter how much I've pushed her away. It's the fact she's never given up on me. Even when I've given up on myself.

A groan is ripped from the back of my throat, coming out on just this side of a growl as my fingers cu