Page 16 of F*ck It Out With A Devil

She clears her throat, and asks, “How did you manage to do that?”

“Easy, I gave them the money, and they gave me the keys.” He replies, very nonchalantly. I’m glad he thinks this isn’t a big deal. I mean, I have loads of questions.

“Oh, Mr. Bash, you’ve made me the happiest girl in the world.” I gush, throwing my arms around his neck.

For a moment, I think I’ver overstepped my boundaries until I feel his large, firm arms circle my waist, lifting me up as if I’m light as a feather.

Just like that, I’m falling for this man who is old enough to be my father.

“I love that it pleases you instead of upsetting you that I did something like this. I felt it was only right. You deserve that house more thananyoneelse.”

“When can we move in?” I’m anxious to get back home. Sure, living with Aunt Josie has been a saving grace, but I’d feel much better being in my own element.

“We?” Aunt Josie asks, and I’m appalled she would think that I didn’t want her there with me.

“Now, Auntie, you didn’t honestly think I would go back home without you, did you?” I ask, releasing Bash to turn around and face Aunt Josie.

“Yes. I knew you would leave here one day, I just didn’t think you would want me to go with you.”

“Of course I would. This isn’t your forever home, and when we move back into mine, we can add your touches to it so it will be more like what you would envision your home to be like.” I want her to know that I love her without saying the words. I was never good at expressing my feelings.

“That would be wonderful, baby.” She pulls me away from Bash and into her for a tight, bear hug. I close my eyes and just feel all the love she’s pouring into me, and that causes me to hug her even tighter, pulling her closer to me.

“Then it’s settled. No need to go through paperwork or any nonsense like that. Everything has been taken care of. All you need to do is move in and design it like you want.” He stands and produces the keys out of his pocket. “Here you are, little one.” He drops them in my hand and turns to leave.

“Thank you so much, Mr. Bash.” I shimmy out of Aunt Josie’s grip and follow him out.

Once he makes it to the front door, he turns and faces me.

“I’d do anything for you, little one, you know that right?” I consider his question before answering.

Do I know this? I know he means well, but am I looking deeper into this than I should? I go with the only answer I feel is right.

“I know.” His eyes flutter closed as if what I said gave him peace.

“Good girl.” He whispers, and then he does something so unexpected, I think I made it up.

His lips sear mine in a very well-reserved kiss. This is the second time that he has rendered me speechless as his soft lips caress mine. I keep my eyes open in fear I might miss the look of pleasure etched on his face.

I don’t move one hair on my head or even an inch of my body in fear that it will be over too soon. I need to feel that this is real.

I know I’m not imagining this and finally let my eyes close as his scent engulfs me and holds me hostage. Ginger and cedar, a sweet and spicy armor that matches him. I could get lost in him or find myself, but I haven’t quite decided yet.

There have been countless times that I’ve imagined this very thing happening. Of course, I had been daydreaming each time, but that’s besides the point.

Just like that, it’s over. I’m a finger pinch away from moaning my displeasure but think better of it.

“Forgive me, I don’t know what came over me.” He brings his fingers up to his lips,

while those sage-green eyes come back to mine, waiting for me to tell him it was okay. If he’s looking for me to tell him that he was wrong, and it should have never happened, then he’s got the wrong girl.

“No worries.” I can tell that’s not the answer he was hoping for as his face deflates, so I add, “I rather enjoyed the kiss, Bash.” I smile up at him, waiting expectantly.

“So did I.” His smile doesn’t reach his eyes this time. “I’m afraid I must go now, but I will be back.” He opens the door, and I hear a screeching noise behind him.

“What the hell?” I hear Gaia’s impatient shriek ring out like she’s witnessing a murder.

“Excuse me.” Bash says, maneuvering around her and taking his leave.

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