Page 22 of Ajax

I chuckle. “What did you think would happen when you turned up to my house and threw yourself at me?”

She drops her head to my chest again. “You make a good pillow.”

“I’m here for that any time you need me.”

Five minutes ago, all I could think about was getting my rocks off with this woman. Now she’s in my arms, and if I’m not mistaken just fell asleep while resting on my bare chest.

I close my eyes and join her.

TEN

AJAX

I don’t wantto open my eyes.

This morning feels like a dream.

After placing my hand on my chest, there’s no silky hair like I’m expecting, and my eyes fly open.

My shirt’s buttoned up, and there’s no sign of Ivy.

Did I dream her?

In the distance, the toilet flushes, and water starts running.

I sit up and blink a few times to wake myself up.

Ivy appears in the doorway leading to the bathroom.

“Hey. I hope you don’t mind me using the facilities.” She beams a smile so brilliant, it highlights the dimples in her cheeks.

I fall a little harder.

“They’re yours. When you move in, you can do what you want with them.”

She bites her bottom lip before stalking toward me. I hold open my arms, and she drops onto my lap just like before.

“You really meant that?”

I nod. “I did. You don’t have to do anything you don’t want to, and we don’t have tolive togetherlive together, but there’sspace for both of us here, and we’ll talk to the others, but I can’t see why they wouldn’t be okay with giving you a job.”

She’s quiet for a moment. “I’d like that. Not just because I need the money, but Ireallylike you.”

“Feeling’s mutual, babe.”

She kisses me softly.

I rub her thigh and glance at the clock on the wall. “It’s midday. Want some lunch? Cookie will have food ready.”

She nods. “Do you think it’s okay for me to join you?”

“Of course it is. Let’s go.” I peck her lips, and hold her hand while she stands.

Keeping hold of her hand, we walk out of my place and across the yard to the main house.

After pushing open the door, I walk into the kitchen.

“Hey.” Cookie looks up and smiles.

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