Free Rediscovering Peace (Military Love Book 1) by Steffy Rogers Page B

the restaurant.
    “Do you just want to drive with me and I will bring you back to your car after the movie?” he asked me.
    “Sure, why not.” I was eager to spend as much time as possible with him and welcomed the car ride. I hadn’t realized how much I had missed Braden in my life until he found me again. Life was always easier when he was around. I was determined to keep him in my life as long as he would allow it.
    We made the short way over to his apartment complex. Memories started flashing through my mind. Of course he would live in the same complex Oliver had lived in. I tried to hide the tears from Braden but a sob escaped me and he shot around to look at me.
    “What’s wrong, sweetheart? Did I say something to upset you?”
    “No you didn’t say anything wrong. It’s stupid really, but Oliver used to live in this apartment complex. The memories just hurt, you know. We were so happy. I don’t know where and why things went wrong. How could he do this to me? He asked me to be his wife. I really thought it was the real thing. I guess I was wrong. I am sorry for putting my sob story on you.”
    “Listen, Skye, you can always talk to me about anything. I don’t care if it’s three in the morning or four in the afternoon, if you need me I will be there for you. As for Oliver, he’s a jerk. He will realize sooner or later what he lost when he let you walk away. Trust me, I know from experience. I have no idea why anyone would cheat on you. You’re a genuinely great girl and if I was him I would’ve held on to that tight.”
    “Thank you, Braden. I hope the pain will subside eventually. I doubt the pain will ever go away completely but I am trying to move on. I know he doesn’t deserve me, but that doesn’t change the fact that I still love and miss him.”
    “A part of you will probably always love him, after what you told me you did have good times together. But don’t let the hurt consume you, Skye. You have to open your heart to someone again eventually. It would be a shame if a gorgeous girl like you would end up alone. Come on, sweetie, let’s go inside so I can change. If you don’t want to go out to the movies anymore we can just stay here and binge on some Netflix shows.”
    I thought about just ditching the movies and the idea of spending time alone with Braden was tempting. But I also knew I could only fight my attraction for him for so long and I wouldn’t hurt him like that. I knew I was nowhere ready to give Braden what he needed from me and casual sex would just destroy our newly rebuilt friendship.
    “No, movie is fine. I am up to anything that will distract me from thoughts of him. ”
    Braden came around and helped me out of the car. As soon as he closed the door to his apartment his ACU jacket came off. I was surprised I didn’t start drooling at the sight of his broad shoulders and muscular back. Who said a back couldn’t be a turn on? If I hadn’t been attracted to him eight years ago I would definitely be now. I needed to take a deep breath. Friends. Braden and I are friends. That’s all. I had no romantic feelings for Braden. It was only friendship. At least I kept telling myself that.
    “Why don’t you sit down while I go change into some other clothes? I will be right back, don’t run away,” he said with a wink and a smile that brought out his dimple. God, that dimple had always driven me insane. Braden James Parker was trouble – that much I was sure of.
    We arrived at the movie theater a little later and again Braden refused to let me pay for anything. I was growing frustrated with his need to pay for everything.
    “You know I make my own money and I can pay for my own things, right?” I glared at him.
    “I know you can, that doesn’t mean you should. I invited you to come with me so it’s my treat. It’s not a big deal, Skye. No need to be upset. I will let you pay for your popcorn if that makes you feel better.”
    “It does,” I answered and went to