Page 114 of Stealing Home

I get up first and then pick her up bridal style. She laughs.

“I can walk, Casanova.” She says.

“Yes, you can, but you had a busy day. I always want to make it easier for you, Sugar.” I tell her.

I place her on her feet so I can open the shower door and turn on the hot water. Once I see the steam from the water, I open the door for us to walk in.

I hold her while the water runs down both of your bodies.

“I didn’t tell you earlier, but I’m so fucking proud of you for how you spoke to Toby tonight, babe.” I tell her.

“Thank you. That was not something I would normally do, but I know we needed answers.” She responds.

My girl said we. I like the sound of that.

“You are a bad ass, Sugar.” I say.

She chuckles at me.

“I’m serious. And I have to ask again because it’s who I’m and I really care a lot about you. Are you okay?”

“I’m good babe. I honestly think this is the best life has been in a long time. The last time I was truly this happy and content with life was when I had both of parents alive. A big part of that is having you by side. So, yes, I’m really good. My heart is full. I have actual friends and a boyfriend who cares, listens and pays attention to me.” she sincerely tells me.

Yup, I’m a goner. Hook, line and sinker.

“Did I just scare you off? Too much feelings?” she asks.

“Not at all. I’m happy I’m the guy by your side. My heart is full too.” I tell her.

I hold her tighter at this moment. I know she’s with me and I’m not the only one falling. This woman is my forever. I already know this. Ty wasn’t wrong earlier. I can see it with Adriana. The life of being married and having kids and it’s a life I want.

“Let’s get cleaned up and maybe I’ll get you dirty again.” I say.

We attempt to be quick to get out of the shower, but kisses and hugs slowed us down. By the time we crawl into bed, we are both completely exhausted. We didn’t bother with clothes. There doesn’t seem to be a point now.

Adriana snuggles into me, and I kiss her goodnight. Or so I thought. I can’t get enough of her. I take her one more time before we both pass out in a mess of tangled limbs.

CHAPTER THIRTY-EIGHT

Adriana

This past weekend was amazing. The gala went off without a hitch and we raised an amazing amount of money for the Grizzlies Care Foundation.

Dealing with the media on the red carpet wasn’t bad. Everyone was actually very respectful and didn’t pry too much into our relationship. When we finally came up for air on Saturday, I saw Heather had sent over a link to the local newspaper. The paper wrote about how great the gala was and what the foundation would do but ended with how Cole Evans, The Grizzlies’ most eligible bachelor, was now off the market. We had a good laugh since it said he wasn’t “on the market long” even though we know the truth.

We spent the rest of the weekend in bed, only getting up to eat and shower. I love the moments in our little bubble. And although I know I’m only staying with him until Toby leaves, I could see my future with Cole. I love waking up with him and falling asleep in his arms.

I realized that I’m in love with Cole Evans this weekend. It hit me like a ton of bricks while we were in the shower.

Now here we are late Monday morning and my man is getting ready to leave for practice.

“Babe, you ready?” Cole shouts from downstairs.

“Yeah, just putting on my shoes.” I shout back.

I finish getting my shoes on and meet him at the bottom of the stairs. He’s smiling at me, and I can’t help but kiss him. He kisses me back without thinking, but then he’s pulling away.

“Sugar, I can’t be late to practice. Keep that up and we’ll end up back in bed,” he tells me with a swat on my ass.

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