Page 52 of Faded Rhythm

“How you doin’, sweetheart? Did you have a good day?”

I’ve never heard his voice that soft before. Or seen him smile like he’s doing when I bring my eyes back up to his face.

“Goodnight. Sweet dreams. Be good for your auntie.”

Then he gives Rae the same attention, and it makes my heart ache. It’s all I can do not to tackle him onto the bed.

He hands me the phone and turns off the light, but he returns to his computer. I ease into bed, staring at the blue glow emanating from his screen. I’m tired, but restless.

“Are you coming to bed?” I ask.

“Eventually.”

I doze off, going in and out of consciousness. When he lays down next to me, I open my eyes, having no idea how much time has passed. But I’m awake now, and still…restless.

“What’s gonna happen to my car?” I murmur.

“We have bigger problems than that,” is all he says.

I blow out a breath. He’s so fucking annoying, but I want him. I want him so bad.

I sigh again, louder this time.

No response.

I shift, tossing and turning a few times.

Still, nothing.

I shrug off my robe, letting the cool hotel air whisper across my naked skin.

Nada.

I sigh again.

This time, finally, a sign of life.

“What the hell is wrong with you?”

“I can’t sleep.”

There’s a beat of silence, then then, “Don’t ask me to hold you again.”

“Why?”

“It’s not a good idea.”

My eyes couldn’t roll any harder if I tried. “Let me guess,” I say. “You don’t wanna be compromised.”

“Glad you understand.”

“Actually, I don’t. You think touching me is compromising? What does that even mean?”

“Let it go.”

“No! Do you have any idea what it’s like to lay next to you and not…not…” I trail off. I wanna say it, but I can’t.

“It can’t be any worse than laying next to you knowing you’re naked,” he mumbles. “And soft. And wet.”

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