Page 120 of Illicit

I press my lips to his pec. “I love you.”

He pulls in a deep breath and holds it for a dramatic pause before releasing it. I’m not sure, but it feels like he’s letting those words sink in like I did his. His lips touch the side of my head when he says, “Go back to sleep, baby. Reality will slap us in the face soon enough.”

Unfortunately, he’s right.

Soon enough comes way too fast.

28

BLOODY CHUFFED AND BADASS SHIT

Rocco

Getting my shit together when it comes to Teagan at the same time Sammie had a baby could not have worked out any better. Tim and Annette are solely focused on their oldest daughter and newborn granddaughter.

As it should be.

I can’t lie, not having their attention has been a gift. It’s better than college football, the draft, and the biggest game of the year all wrapped into one. That’s how good it’s been.

But I have a feeling that’s about to change.

Tim and Annette have been at the hospital most of the time since Marley was born. Teagan and I went back last night. When her parents were out of the room, Sammie promised us she’d keep the news of us to herself, which is not like Sammie.

Motherhood agrees with her.

At this point, it’s choosing the right time to talk to the only parental figures I’ve ever had. But since the woman I just made sure isn’t a virgin any longer is their youngest daughter, I’m anxious to get that conversation over with.

Oddly, I’m not dreading it.

I’m fucking excited about it.

When that’s checked off the list, Teagan and I can focus on what comes next. It’s up to her. I’m not looking forward to quitting a job and career I love, but I’ll do it. New York is a big place, and I’m a hard worker. I’ll find something.

But we’re on the clock.

I’m set to close on a house not far from Brax and Landyn. If I have to back out of that, it needs to happen soon.

Not to mention, I’m ready to get on with my life with Teagan. I’ve waited almost two years. Who knows … maybe I waited longer than that.

Nothing has felt as good as this.

As right.

As effortless.

Even though it’s been a lot of fucking effort. She’s worth every bit of it.

“Roc, everyone is staring at us,” Teagan whispers.

She’s not wrong and does everything she can to twist her hand out of mine. Most people in this building know who Teagan Coleman is. I don’t officially start reporting to the Miami Division until next week, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t some who know me too. I was a Miami PD cop for three years and the personal project of the infamous fab three plus Tim.

I don’t whisper. “Trust me.”

“This seems like a bad idea. The DEA can be worse than old church ladies spreading gossip.”

I grip her hand tighter. “This is not gossip. This is happening.”

Her eyes widen, mortified. “Well, okay. If you want my dad to find out about us through the drug-agent grapevine, then so be it. At least we won’t have to find an opening to tell him. It’ll be done for us when this spreads like wildfire.”

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