Page 60 of Score on You

“No,” I blurt.

“But you want to?”

“Yes. Very much so.”

“Holy moly, this is major.” She claps with enthusiasm.

“It seems like a big deal,” I agree.

“Duh, babes. He branded himself for you.”

The belly swoops choose that instant to perform an impressive routine. My gaze automatically lands on Ridge across the yard. As if sensing my stare, he glances over to where I’m perched in the shade. A smirk slants his mouth and I’m possessed by a sudden urge to kiss him. Not just becausehe’s mowing my lawn or gifting me with a rare expression of happiness. It’s just him. Everything he does.

In this moment, the future we could have spreads out before me. The visual is breathtaking and magical and more than I dare to dream of. That doesn’t stop me from latching on tight.

Without looking away from him, I tilt toward Harper. “I think I’m ready for the talk.”

“More context would help,” she replies.

“About… you know.” I point at the most intimate part of me.

Her eyes widen. “Oh! You’re like… really ready.”

I nod. It seems like I’ve been waiting forever to hit this elusive point. “Tell me what I need to do.”

“Have you mentioned this to him?” She motions to where Ridge is turning to cut the final strip.

The guts to broach this topic wither slightly. “No.”

“That’s completely fine,” she rushes to say. “It’s important to be prepared for when the time comes.” Harper snorts, which morphs into a cackle. “That won’t be the only thing coming.”

“An orgasm would be nice, but not expected.” My mother was kind enough to pass along a few pieces of wisdom.

She balks at my statement. “Holy shit. Did you just say orgasm? What’s in that lemonade?”

I glance at the sweaty pitcher. “Sugar and ice?”

“Did Molly slip in there?” She leans over to inspect the contents.

“Who?”

She laughs. “Just messing with you. But for real, I’m proud of you for taking the initiative. I have quite an extensive collection of romance books if you want to borrow one or an entire shelf for inspiration. Grace has plenty too.”

“That’s a good idea. I want to… please him.” My face goes up in flames at the thought alone.

Harper fans herself. “Damn, that man is rubbing off on you.”

My bottom lip gets clamped between my teeth when Ridge scratches at his chiseled abdomen. “I wouldn’t mind if he did.”

“Yep, you’re certainly ready.” She whistles and then drops her gaze as if I could possibly scandalize her. “What’s that?”

I squint at what’s caught her attention. “A welcome mat.”

She shoots me a flat look. “Jeez, thanks for that brilliant hint. But why did you choose one that says, ‘No Pricks Allowed’? Seems a bit counterproductive considering who you’re dating.”

That bursts my bliss bubble. “Hey, I take offense to that.”

“He’s lovely to you. That’s what matters.”

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