And that’s coming from an athlete who was taught to hold his breath for long periods of time. Thankfully, that technique was retired long ago, but not once have I ever felt this kind of chest tightness before.

Kings of the Water Series by Jasmin Miller - Goodreads

I shake my head. “No. The prepared meals are usually for days when I have training and don’t have the time to cook.”

How the hell do I explain that my whole life has been altered? That if I want to go to the store to grab something last-minute . . . that if I want to take a shower . . . nap. Forget hookups. Gone. I can’t do that anymore. My phone beeps on my dresser, and my heart does an extra flip when Jace’s picture pops up on the screen. So far, two people were gone by the time my mom and Tanner arrived. Tanner started crying with one and running away the other time. Tanner and I are cuddled up on the couch reading books when the alarm system beeps, indicating that one of the doors was opened. Less than two seconds later, the front door shuts and footsteps echo across the wooden floor, coming closer to the living room.

Fresh Meet: Special Edition by Jasmin Miller | Goodreads

I wish Jace would have taken the revolting smell with him, but sadly he didn’t. My stomach churns as I slowly fold together the ends of the blanket, careful not to touch any more throw up, even though it’s impossible to avoid.His gaze finds mine, and he shakes his head. “Of course you didn’t. It’s not like he has a chance against you. They don’t call you king of the water for no reason.” The feeling of being choked or smothered has lessened only minimally. There was a moment—when Tanner first woke up with his bad cough and started crying uncontrollably—where I felt like I wasn’t able to get enough oxygen. I hope not, but I can ask her.” She taps on her phone a few times before looking at me. “You sure?” A normal job. Possibly a wife and children. A family to come home to. Actually having the time to hang out with them.