Beyond (BOOK 1.5) by Melissa Pearl Read Free Book Online Page B

picnic blanket Dale had laid out for us. I blush, my skin growing warm as I remember his hands sliding up my jean-clad thigh, his lips warm and intense on my mouth, the weight of his body on mine, making me feel safe and secure...the way he had to suddenly roll away and collect himself before he went too far. I love that I can do that to him. I guess it's kind of mean, but it's good confirmation that he's into me. I try to cling to every one of those moments.
    The fact that in a few months’ time they will cease to exist nearly cuts off my air supply. I try to counter the mild panic attack sweeping over me by slowing my breathing and blinking at my rapid tears. Thankfully, Adam doesn't notice. He's too distracted by something in the rearview mirror.
    "Oh shit." He slams the wheel, making me jump.
    That's when I hear the siren. Reluctantly, Adam flicks on his indicator, and we pull to the side of the road.
    "Is that your dad?" I swivel to look out the back window and wince.
    Adam doesn't say anything, just taps his finger on the wheel and looks straight ahead.
    A few seconds later, his door is clicked open and Sheriff Hutton is leaning into the car. His stern glare increases tenfold when he sees me in the passenger seat.
    "What the hell is she doing in your car?"
    I totally get why Adam is so scared of his dad. The look on Sheriff Hutton's face screams murder. I can't maintain eye contact.
    "Get out of the car. Both of you." We have to obey the steely voice. Much to my disgust, we both jump to do his bidding. I try to counter my direct obedience, by slumping against the car and throwing the sheriff a black look.
    I fold my arms across my chest. Adam stands next to me, his hands in his pockets, looking at the ground.
    "Where are you two going?"
    We keep our lips sealed. I glance at Adam, but he won't look at me.
    "You should be in school."
    "It's our lunch break. Seniors are allowed out for lunch." I spit the words at him.
    The Sheriff approaches me on swift feet. "Last I checked, you're not a senior, Miss Tepper."
    I roll my eyes and lean away from him.
    "Now what are you getting my boy into?"
    My eyes dart towards the angry face then back to the ground. I'm really trying to pull off nonchalant, but the sheriff is making it damn difficult. My pulse is so fast, I think my veins might start breakdancing. I rub my elbow, a nervous habit I've picked up since the accident.
    He leans in closer. I can smell the black coffee on his breath. "You trying to get my boy in trouble?" His granite stare is fully nailing into me. I try to twist away, but he moves to invade my space again.
    "Get out of my face!" I push his shoulder.
    He looks incredulous as he steps back and reaches for his cuffs. "You attacking an officer of the law?"
    "What? Don't be stupid. You're using intimidation tactics!"
    "Tell me where you're going."
    "Forget it. It's none of your business."
    "My boy's not my business?" The sheriff points at his son before getting into my space again. Slamming a hand on the car either side of my body, he leans forward, trapping me. "You better not be stirring up trouble, girl. Remember what I told you yesterday."
    My gaze turns molten. I can feel it. "And remember what I told you."
    A tendon in his neck pings tight. His mouth makes this horrible shape, and his fist rises into the air. This fully freaks me out. I'm about to scream until an iron grip clamps around the Sheriff's wrist.
    "Dad, stop."
    Adam's voice starts out soft, but the sheriff is still straining against his son. His menacing whisper is growing darker by the second. "I'm going to finish you, you little bitch."
    "Dad!" Adam yanks his father back. "Stop!"
    The sheriff's eyes round with disbelief and then flash with sorrow, before growing malevolent once more. "Don't let her talk you into doing this, son. You get back in that car and head back to school. Right now!"
    "No, Dad." Adam's voice is quivering, but he stands tall in spite of this.
    "Adam, get back in the