Page 37 of Shiver

Isink back against the leather seats, squeezing my eyes closed as the air-conditioning cools the car and my subsequent nerves.

That went better than I’d expected, but it brought on a lot of emotions I hadn’t anticipated. As much as I want Gia to have her mom in her life, I also want her to have a happy home with two loving parents who she can count on. I’m not thrilled with the idea of her traveling between homes or having a nanny when neither of us can be there for her because of work.

But I know I don’t want a relationship with Cici. I’m glad we’ve worked things out and will continue to do so, but I’m extremely certain that I have no romantic feelings for her anymore. I just want to co-parent and give Gia everything she deserves in this life.

I want her to have the happiest fucking childhood, just like my parents gave me and all of my siblings. And I want her to live the most incredible life.

I’m not sure how I’ll accomplish any of that, but I’ll be damned if I’m not working toward it every day.

“Luca.” Samara’s soft voice drags me from my thoughts. “You ready to get going?”

“Yeah, sorry, that was just a lot. Let me get you back so you can get home,” I tell her, ensuring everyone’s buckled in before I back out.

Unable to stand the silence for a second longer, I turn the radio on at the first red light, allowing the sultry lyrics to pour through the car.1

Samara’s leaning against the window, staring out of it, and paying me no mind as we make the short trip back to my house.

My lips twitch with a smile as her soft but beautiful voice filters through the car. I’m not sure if she even realizes she’s doing it or not, but she’s singing along, and the idea that she might be feeling more comfortable around me does funny things to my gut.

Once we finally pull into my driveway, I turn to her and ask, “Can I make you dinner? As a thank you for today. You know, since you refuse to let me pay you.”

She rolls her eyes at me. “I was just doing my client a favor,” she says, but her words aren’t the least bit convincing.

“A client? Is that what I am, Samara?” I lean into her over the center console, invading her personal space as I bring my lips a few inches from her ear. “Last I checked, all the paperwork had been finalized.”

“I’m unsure of what delusions you may be fighting, Luca, but yes, you are aclient.And as you said, the paperwork is done, so I’ll be heading home now.”

She straightens in her seat, and I can tell she’s ready to bolt, so I rush to say, “Come on, Samara. Let me feed you.”

Fuck, that was probably the wrong choice of words too.

And just as I’d expected, she fires back a snarky retort. “I’ll feed my damn self, Luca. Go worry about feeding your child, and refrain from contacting me about your personal problems.”

Well, shit, that was a low blow.She doesn’t wait for my response as she unbuckles herself and nearly tosses her body out of the car door.

***

It’s nearly midnight when my phone vibrates on my nightstand.

Samara

I’m sorry for snapping at you today. I know you were just being nice, but I generally try to keep my private and professional life separate. Lately, you and your family have made that extremely difficult to do though.

My pulse starts to speed up, and my cheeks burn with the effort it takes to hold the massive grin her admission brings to my face.

Don’t worry, princess. I’ve been known to have that effect on people ;)

And as for my family… Well… No one says no to Gloria De Laurentiis. It’s her superpower and absolutely no fault of your own that you’ve fallen victim to her torment.

Samara

Thank you for that incredibly insightful and understanding explanation, Luca. I’ll carry it with me forever.

I’m sure you will. Sleep tight, princess.

I put my phone face down beside me and rest my head on my forearms, closing my eyes. I fall asleep with a smile on my lips and enjoy a night of Samara-filled dreams.

1. Every Kind Of Way — H.E.R.

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