Bound by the Past, Locked by the Heart novel Chapter 25

Willa knew exactly what he was about to ask, but this was hardly the time or place for that conversation. She cut him off firmly, steering the topic elsewhere. "Zack, thank you for stepping in back there."

A youthful flush spread across Zack's cheeks. He scratched the back of his neck, his voice dropping to a mumble. "It's... it's nothing."

He ducked his head and quickly unzipped his own tent. A moment later, he emerged carrying a heavy sleeping bag. He walked back to Willa, unable to meet her eyes. "It gets freezing up here at night. Take this. Put it by your feet as an extra layer."

"I couldn't, what about you..." Willa immediately tried to refuse.

"It's fine. I run hot, so I don't get cold." Zack unceremoniously shoved the sleeping bag into her tent, smoothing it out for her. He turned back and added softly, "If you get scared tonight, just wake me up. My tent is right on your right."

Watching Zack fuss over her setup, Willa was swallowed by a tidal wave of guilt.

She cleared her throat, her tone turning awkward. "Zack, about that kiss earlier... I'm really sorry. I acted without thinking. Please don't read into it, I didn't mean anything by it..."

"It's fine," Zack laughed, faking a casual tone. "I'm a guy, it's not like I lost out on the deal."

"It was just a game. I know you were just trying to get Randal off your back." His smile faded slightly, a shadow of disappointment flickering in his eyes.

"But... I..." He paused for a few seconds before suddenly reaching out and wrapping his arms around her in a careful, gentle hug.

Willa froze.

The overwhelming mix of guilt and gratitude kept her from pushing him away right away.

The moonlight cast their intertwined shadows against the canvas of the tent, the moment quiet and intimately tender.

A few yards away, hidden in the dark shadows of the black SUV, a glowing red cherry of a cigarette flared and dimmed in the night.

Randal leaned against the car door, half a cigarette trapped between his fingers.

He had been standing there for a long time, torturing himself by staring unblinking at their silhouettes.

Smoke spilled slowly past his lips, masking the murderous rage in his eyes.

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