Page 16 of Falling for Her Protector

Now it’s time to figure out what to wear. I pulled out a few options before getting in the shower, so hopefully it won’t take too long for me to decide. Just as I step through the doorway, I hear the sound. A sound I’m definitely not ready for.

A loud knock rings through the apartment.

He can’t be here already. I knew I lost track of time while I was in the bathroom, but I really didn’t think I was running that far behind.

Another knock.

Shit! I’ve got to move.

“Uh...hang on...” I call out as I scramble to find something more than just a towel to cover me. I yank one of Lacey’s oversized hoodies from the hook beside the door, and throw it on over my towel. I pull the zipper up quickly and turn towards the door. Here goes nothing.

Opening the door, I find Xavier’s large frame filling the hallway. His eyes drop, taking in my outfit and I feel my face flush. My skin heats, spreading rapidly down my neck and chest.

“I’m sorry, I’m not ready yet. Just give me a second to throw some clothes on,” I tell him, opening the door wider for him to step inside. He lets a low chuckle slip past his lips and the sound pulls at something deep in my core.

“You mean you don’t want to wear that out?” he questions with a playful grin.

“Uh, no. I’m pretty sure the towel and sweatshirt look is out this season,” I reply with a small smile. His eyes drop, seeming to rake over me without shame.

“I think you could pull it off,” his grin grows to a broad smile as he steps closer, his fingers lifting to touch the zipper pull. Something is definitely different about him today. I thought I sensed something earlier at the clubhouse, and now, I'm positive. He seems lighter. I wonder what’s gotten into him. I softly clear my throat.

“Well, I...I guess I’ll go get changed and then we can go,” I breathe out, but my body refuses to move as I watch his fingers continue to play with my zipper.

“I want you to know that I’m sorry. I’m sorry for the other night,” he starts. “I never meant to corner you like that or put you in that position. I know you’ve already been dealing with some heavy shit, and the last thing I want to do is make it harder for you,” his deep voice is heavy with honesty and I feel like I can’t breathe as I slip into his dark eyes.

“I didn’t feel cornered, or forced. I appreciate what you’re saying, but it’s really not necessary,” I manage to find my voice as my heart beats rapidly against my chest and I try to find the courage to keep speaking. “But...when you left, you seemed so angry. I thought maybe I did something wrong, something to make you mad,” I force the words out with my breath.

“No, sweetheart. I was just mad at myself. I knew better. I knew you needed time, but I saw you and I just couldn’t help myself,” his response falls heavy against my ears. “Sure, I could blame the party and the fuckin’ booze, but the truth is, I knew exactly what I was doing when I came to find you.”

“Why didn't you just ask if I was ready?” I let my simple question slip out.

“Well, shit. I guess I’m just not that smart,” he cracks a grin.

“Because I was...” I whisper, dropping my eyes to the floor.

His fingers leave my zipper and gently touch my chin, lifting my face until my eyes meet his once more.

“Youwere?” his eyebrows lift.

“I am,” I clarify and as soon as my words hit the air, his lips drop to cover mine. He’s strong and in control without being forceful and I let my mouth move slowly with his. His tongue presses easily through my lips as I grant him access to explore. I try to hold back, but I can’t stop the soft moan that passes from my mouth into his. I feel dizzy when we break, my head is light as the rush of excitement pulses through me.

My fingers find the zipper and I pull it down, slowing dragging it over the teeth and letting the sound vibrate between us. The heavy fabric slides down my arms and drops to the floor with an easy thud, leaving me standing in front of X. in only my towel.

He pulls a sharp breath through his teeth and I touch my hand to his thick bicep, feeling it flex against my palm. I run my tongue over my bottom lip, the soft tingle still pulsing from our kiss. After everything I went through the last few months, I never thought I would want a man to touch me, but there is absolutely no doubt in my mind that right now, I want Xavier.

I look into his dark eyes, finding the same swirling desire that I feel pulsing through my entire body. I squeeze his arm lightly before dropping my hand and turning away. I hear his breath catch as I move towards the bedroom without a word.

My body hums with anticipation when I hear him move behind me and I know he’s following me. I stop when my feet meet the edge of the bed. I find my stack of clothing options still waiting in a neat pile on top of the blanket. My hands lift and I grip the towel clinging to my chest. I pull it apart easily and let it drop, falling at my feet.

“God damn. You are gorgeous,” Xavier’s deep husky voice fills my ears as he steps up behind me. His fingers graze my upper back as he moves my hair to one side, lowering his lips to my ear.

“Is this really what you want?” he asks softly and I nod.

“Yes...” I breathe out.

His large hand settles on my hip and his full lips touch the back of my neck, igniting the surface of my skin. His mouth moves perfectly over my body as he kisses a trail down my shoulder. My eyes flutter closed as the room begins to fade beautifully around me and I let Xavier’s touch take me away.

12

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