Contents
Chapter 55
Overview
Veronica twists her ankle during an early run with Jeremy, prompting him to carry her back and care for the injury. Their mutual attraction culminates in a kiss, which Jeremy halts, citing Naomi’s instability and his duty to Teddy. Despite his restraint, he returns and kisses Veronica again, escalating their emotional entanglement.
Summary
Veronica continues her thrice-weekly dawn runs with Jeremy despite believing, after his controlled paternity test, that Teddy likely isn’t her son. During a lap, she steps into a dip, twists her ankle, and falls, leaving her unable to walk comfortably.
Jeremy immediately helps, carrying Veronica around the park to a bench, then expertly wrapping her ankle and icing the painful spot. The quiet moment and his care intensify their connection, and they kiss.
Jeremy pulls away and apologizes, explaining he cannot risk an affair or separation because Naomi is unstable and he must prioritize Teddy’s wellbeing. Veronica understands but is disappointed, admitting her feelings.
He escorts her to her car, struggles to end the encounter, then abruptly returns and kisses her again, signaling deepening feelings despite the complications of his marriage and custody situation.
Who Appears
- Veronica (Ronnie)Narrator; injures her ankle while running with Jeremy, receives his care, and shares two conflicted kisses.
- JeremyCares for Veronica after her ankle injury; kisses her but tries to stop, citing Naomi’s instability and Teddy’s needs.