Page 60 of Conception
“Hiking boots? Knox, I’m down with the outdoors as much as the next person, but really? If you want to reward me for a job well done, lounging by the lake, going on another shopping trip, or staying in bed all day are more up my alley.”
His eyes gleam at the memory of watching me—more like ogling me—trying on bathing suit after bathing suit when we made an impromptu trip to the mall the next county over last week. We didnotchristen the dressing room that day, but not for lack of him trying.
“As good as all that sounds, just trust me. I think you’re going to like this.”
“Fine,” I grumble, pulling on a pair of athletic shorts and a tank tip I tie at the waist. Thankful I brought a pair of sneakers, I take my time putting them on and securing my laces. I fashion my hair in a loose braid that hangs over one shoulder and place my hands on my hips. “Am I presentable?”
Knox grins. “Babe, I’ve never seen you not presentable. Except maybe when you’re riding my cock and grabbing your tits. Presentable as fuck to me, just not anyone else.”
The reminder of last night makes my face flush.
Not wanting to get all hot and bothered before this little excursion, I change the subject. “Will you at least feed me first?”
“Eggs, sausage, and OJ comin’ right up.”
It’s something else I’ve learned about Knox in the past month or so. The man loves to cook and he’s damn good at it. Another thing he credits his mom with. In another world, I think I’d love to meet the woman who created such a fine man.
Or, maybe, in this one, too.
I devour the breakfast he places before me, fueling up for this experience. By the time we’ve washed, dried, and put away the dishes, I’m anxious to get underway. My initial sleepy reluctance has dissipated. I’m intrigued by this new outdoor man and can’t wait to see what he’s got up his sleeve. Energized as ever, I make my way to the front door and hold it open, but then Knox folds his arms and leans against the wall, watching me.
“What?” I ask, wiping my mouth just in case there’s a little bit of egg or juice left there.
“Babe, I think you’re forgetting something.”
I frown, unsure what he’s talking about. If we’re going hiking, I don’t need my purse, and he has a house key on his own key ring. Grams would be freaking out about that, but what’s the point of locking him out when all I want is for him to be with me?
I check myself head to toe.
Comfy clothes I won’t melt in? Check.
Sturdy sneakers that won’t give me blisters if we traipse all over the Tennessee hills? Check.
A cute braid that won’t get in the way if Knox finds some tree he wants to push me up against? Double check.
Other than myself and my small pack filled with water and snacks, I don’t think I’m forgetting anything.
“What are you talking about? Seems like all I need is you and the outdoors.”
He gestures with his chin towards the small table in the foyer, where Mom’s camera sits. It’s been there since the day I showed up at Crystal Cove. In my time with Knox, I’ve pushed all photography thoughts aside. Even though my plans were to focus on my friends and my photography, the latter fell quickly by the wayside after meeting him.
“Knox…”
“Sunny told me.”
I must pale, because he takes three strides towards me then cups my face.
“She told me that you’re a photography fiend. Gotta say, I’m a little hurt you haven’t been using me as your muse.”
Just like that, he puts me at ease.
“How do you know I haven’t?” I ask.
His mouth falls slightly open, and I almost laugh.
“I can’t wait to get into my darkroom and develop all those pictures of you in silent slumber.”
“I’m not sure if I’m supposed to be flattered or creeped out by that.”
