Hearts Attached by Scarlet Wolfe Page A

bathroom.
    After running a washcloth under cold water, Kenzie takes it out of my hands and begins wiping the blood from my mouth.
    “It looks like your bottom lip is all that’s hurt.”
    I reach up and rub the back of her head.
    “He had a tight hold on your hair. Are you OK?” Just picturing her over that table makes me furious again.
    “I’m used to it, Luke.”
    I swipe the washcloth from her hand.
    “I can do it,” I say as I look in the mirror, cleaning around the cut to my bottom lip. I feel Kenzie’s eyes on me the entire time. When I’m finished, I turn and look at her.
    “That’s the last time, Kenz. If he touches you again, we’re telling. I mean it. We should have years ago.”
    “OK, I’m sorry.”
    “It’s not your fault, so please don’t apologize again.”
    She’s gazing at me differently, her eyes intense. Cupping one side of my face, she kisses the corner of my mouth that’s not injured.
    Her lips linger, and I feel something besides anger. It’s excitement, and I want to kiss her back.
    “Thank you, Luke. I’ll always remember what you did for me.”
    “I did what was right. I have to go.” I shove past her and out of the bathroom. I’m confused over what the hell happened between us ... what always seems to happen when we have time alone.
    McKenzie
    “Luke, are you OK?”
    “Huh?”
    “Are you alright?”
    “Yeah, I’m fine. I was just thinking about your dad. I’m sorry; I shouldn’t be. Being in this room brought it back.”
    “I remember us being in this very spot the night after he moved to New York. I don’t know what I would’ve done without you.”
    ***
    A ge 14:
    I hear a knock, and I want to ignore it.
    “Go away,” I say between sobs. My back is to the door, and I’m gasping for air between cries. The next thing I know, I’m being rolled over in my bed and pulled up into Luke’s lap.
    His back is against my headboard, and he has me snugly in his arms. This only makes me cry harder. He strokes my hair, and I occasionally feel him kiss the top of my head.
    “I’m sorry, Kenz. I feel responsible after what happened yesterday, but I’m glad your dad is gone.”
    “I still feel bad that he hurt you, Luke.”
    “Don’t. It wasn’t your fault, and if he ever shows his face around here again, I swear I’ll kick his ass and win this time.”
    I can’t help but chuckle. Who knew sweet Luke was a badass?
    “Mom won’t let Liv come over. She said you’ve been through enough and can’t afford to get the flu on top of it. We begged until she let me. I wasn’t leaving you alone.”
    “He’s been seeing this lady in New York for three years, Luke. Their little boy is two. He’s choosing them over us.” I sob again.
    “He’s an idiot, Kenzie. He doesn’t deserve to have you as a daughter.”
    I wrap my arms around Luke’s waist and press my cheek to his chest. “A two year old is cute and fun. He always wanted a boy. He was so mean to me, and I’m wondering if I’m not loveable.”
    Luke lifts me by the arms and looks me straight in the eyes. “Kenzie, you’re the sweetest girl I know. Don’t ever think this was your fault. Your dad will regret leaving you and your mom, but you’re better off.”
    “It hurts, knowing he probably left because he can’t beat on me anymore, but I’m glad he’s gone, too.” Snot and tears drip from my face onto Luke’s shirt.
    I glance down. “Sorry.” Luke lifts his t-shirt and wipes my nose with it. “Luke! I can’t believe you just did that. Gross.” He sits me up and yanks off his shirt.
    “Here, now you have a tissue.” He grins at me, and I can’t help but giggle.
    “You’re weird.”
    “I got you laughing.”
    “True.” I lay my head back against his bare chest. It’s warm, and it feels strange to be this close to him, but I feel safe and wanted. Luke takes hold of one of my hands and laces our fingers.
    “Like I have for as long as I can remember, Kenzie, I’ll hold your hand whenever