Page 69 of Summer Nights

At Cooper's home, we fell into a natural rhythm. He’d gotten up early for work, leaving a covered dish of eggs in the microwave for me. I had a later start, since most showings were in the afternoon and evening. I spent my mornings researching listings and following up on new-client inquiries and offers.

I'd taken to working on the deck where I had a perfect view of the ocean. It felt like a permanent vacation.

The difference in schedules gave me space from him. I didn't have to worry about running into him in the kitchen for breakfast or even for dinner for that matter.

He'd taken to cooking a meal, wrapping up my serving, and leaving it in the fridge. He went to bed early, so I had the place to myself in the evenings too.

I'd been worried how this would work and how I'd resist him, but so far, it had been easy. Almost too easy.

On Friday afternoon, my schedule was clear, and I intended to come home early to take advantage of Cooper's bathtub. He'd said I could use it anytime, but I'd been waiting for the perfect opportunity.

He usually came home from work around four, and it was only two. I had plenty of time to enjoy the tub before he arrived. I'd be dressed, and we could cook together or order takeout.

I took off my clothes and left them on the floor, not bothering to close or lock the door since I wasn't expecting Cooper to come home anytime soon.

I ran the water, adding lavender bath salts, before testing the temperature and climbing in. I rested my head against the rim, letting the warm water fill the tub. When it was full, I turned the water off and resumed my relaxed position. I couldn't believe I hadn't tried this before. It was heavenly, especially after a long week at work when I was on my feet more often than not.

I closed my eyes, breathing in the lavender scent. If I opened them, I'd see the palm trees' leaves in the window that made me feel like I was bathing in a jungle. This was heaven.

I wondered what my life would look like in a few short months. Would I be in the house all day with the baby? Would I try to take him or her for walks on the beach or the paths around the island? I liked to think I'd be active, but I was worried about what I'd realistically be able to manage on my own.

I lived with Cooper, but that didn't obligate him to help. I was the one who'd be home all day in the early weeks and months. I hadn't bothered to reserve a daycare spot because I didn't like that option as much as a nanny.

Then there was the issue of needing childcare when I worked odd hours, like evenings and weekends. Cooper could potentially help during those times, but I hated having to rely on that as a possibility. What if he decided he didn't want to help or he didn't have time?

I forced myself to stop thinking about the what-ifs and enjoy this heavenly bath while I had access to it. This really was my dream house.

This sitting room in the master was perfect for a makeshift nursery or even a space for me to work when the baby was moved to a separate bedroom. But this wasn't my space. Living here was a dream, and I'd long ago learned to stop contemplating those.

I only believed in what I could see. Actions spoke louder than any words. I created my reality. The mantras played over in my head until I drifted off for a nap.

I was having the best dream. Someone was playing with my hair, sending tingles down my spine. A hard and very naked body moved behind me so that I was resting against his chest. I sighed in contentment, wishing this dream would never end.

And then his hands cupped my breasts, running a thumb over my nipples, and my eyes flew open. That felt very real.

Hard thighs bracketed mine, and the ridge of Cooper's cock pressed against my back. I turned so that I could see his face. "When did you get here?"

An amused smile spread over his face. "I came home early. I saw your schedule on that calendar you shared with me when you moved in.

"You wanted to see me?"

"We've been like ships passing in the night or not passing at all really. I missed you."

My heart melted at the sentiment.

"Then I came home to find you naked in my tub." His fingers drew circles on my hip. "It was a nice surprise."

"I'm sorry. I thought you wouldn't be home for a while yet."

"You can use my tub whenever you want," he said, his eyes dark with desire.

"This is your space," I countered, clinging to the illusion of boundaries.

He stopped me with a kiss on my upturned lips. "It's yours too. And I want you to enjoy a bath whenever you want."

I wanted to argue with him, but he turned me so that I was straddling his lap. He made sure my knees weren't resting on the tub itself, which I appreciated. Ever since I'd gotten pregnant, I couldn't bear any weight on my knees. It was too painful.

He ensured I rested entirely on his thighs.

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