Page 106 of Submission

“Okay,” I say not really knowing if that’s good or bad.

I’m still standing awkwardly in the middle of her kitchen.

“Where’s Lena?” she asks.

“At the club, working on a recipe with Billy. After all that’s happened, she says she feels most normal if she keeps busy with work.”

“Is she okay there by herself?”

I’ve chosen not to get into the fact that I believe there was someone else out there pulling Jonathan’s strings because what good would that do? The reality is that Lena and Megan’s connection to me will always pose as a threat, but it’s my number one priority to keep them safe or die trying.

“She’s safe. I made sure of it.”

“Okay.”

I step closer to her, unable to avoid the strong pull I feel whenever I’m near her. I love that I tower over her minute body. And I love that a little human we made together is growing inside of her.

“So I know you’re a little irritated with me, but I was hoping you’d go somewhere with me today.”

“Today?” She sounds a little breathy.

“Yeah.”

“Later or like right now?”

She starts fidgeting with her hair.

“I was hoping right now.”

I try to sound as humble as I can.

“How long do I have to get ready?”

“Thirty.”

“What do I need to wear?”

“Whatever you want. You’d look good in a trash bag.”

“Flattery will get you nowhere with me.”

I step closer.

“Then what will get me somewhere?”

It’s almost as if I can hear her heart pattering just a foot away from me or maybe that’s my own heart I hear.

“And what if I say no?” She asks softly.

“Then you say no.”

But please don’t say it.

“You’re not moving me in right now, are you?”

“Megan–” I lift her chin so I can stare straight into her eyes. “I’m not going to make you do anything you don’t want to.”

She takes a moment to consider what I’ve said, then answers, “I’ll get ready.”

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