Page 17 of Score on You

A flush rushes under my skin and I’m burning from curiosity. The unknown makes me squirm. There’s a strange sensation warming in my belly. I wonder what will happen if he says more things like that. Perhaps I’ll catch a fever.

Ridge:that was too much, huh? I can practically hear you tossing and turning

I stop fidgeting, only to realize that I’ve reclined onto the bed at some point. His words remind me of an earlier thought that occurred to me.

Me:Are the walls thin? I’m certain your statement is purely fiction, but now I want to know if you can hear me from your home.

Ridge:do you hear that?

I strain my ears, but there’s no sound other than my rapid pulse.

Me:No. Should I hear something?

Ridge:I’m pounding on the wall

Me:Well, it seems we’ve settled that the walls aren’t thin.

Ridge:how unfortunate

Me:Why is that?

Ridge:I wouldn’t mind listening to your voice

Ridge:is that creepy? didn’t think before I sent it

My belly swoops and dives in an impressive acrobatic routine. As the tumble sequence settles, I gather the courage to respond.

Me:I wouldn’t mind listening to your voice either.

Ridge:damn, sweetness. probably shouldn’t have told me that. now I won’t be able to stop picturing my name falling from your lips. it’s taking an unholyamount of restraint to stay put and not come knocking on your door.

Me:Oh! I’m about to abruptly change the subject. Does that make me rude? I really hope you don’t think I’m being rude. You just reminded me that I want to paint my door. Do you think the owner would mind?

Ridge:if anyone’s rude, it’s me. it’s for the best that we talk about something else. what color do you wanna paint it?

Me:I think green would look nice. A bright spot against the neutral siding. What do you think?

Ridge:that suits you

Me:Really? Do you think the owner will allow me to do it?

Ridge:consider it approved

Me:Just like that?

Ridge:yeah, sweetness. just like that

Me:How can you be so sure?

Ridge:you’ll see. until then, I’m ready for another question

Sweat beads on my forehead from the pressure to finish in such a short amount of time. I didn’t think it would be this hard. The final touch is applied with an upward stroke. Relief fondles me while my knees hit the porch floor. Pride soon follows. A slow exhale grants me a moment’s reprieve.

My task is complete, and I wasn’t caught in the process. The surface is smooth, wet, and covered in its entirety. Just as I’m about to straighten and inspect my handiwork, a gasp confronts me.

Spoke too soon.

I’m on my feet and turn to face her judgment. Callie stares at the fast motion through unblinking eyes. The sight of her in front of me is staggering and I almost fall flat on my ass. At the last second, I grab onto the railing for support. This leaned position gives me a calm and confident appearance. Or I look ready to pounce. Nobody could blame me for acting like an alpha male in the presence of his mate.

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