Page 8 of Risky Match
Collapsing on top of her, I quickly roll us onto our sides and hold her tight as we each recover.
Once our breathing evens out, I ask, “Where’s your bathroom?”
“In the bedroom. It’s on the left.”
After quickly disposing of the condom, I return with a warm wet cloth for Brianna.
I gaze at her, knowing that I’ll always remember the connection we had tonight.
“Are you okay? I hope that wasn’t too much for you,” I say.
“It was wonderful.”
I search her face, making sure she’s being honest with me. The look on her face is mystifying. It’s one of contentment but confusion. It’s as if neither of us knows what just happened. It’s as if we’ve shared something more than sex. We’ve shared an understanding of what it’s like to be different and have a need for something as simple as pleasure and compassion outside the public eye.
“Listen, this has been great, but I should go. You know this can’t be more, right?” I say with a hint of apology.
She squints her eyes in confusion. “Did I ask for more? My life doesn’t have room for a relationship any more than yours does.”
I’m stunned. That’s not the reaction I expected. Before I can respond, she shocks me again. “It’s good we’re in agreement. This was a one-time thing. Although I’m sure you’re eager to get going, it’s late, and we could both use some sleep. Would you like to stay until morning?”
I wasn’t expecting that invitation. With any other woman, I’d headed out the door, but more time with her is somethingI won’t turn down. She provides me with a sense of calm and comfort that I’ve rarely felt. If I could bottle this feeling, I would.
Those thoughts are too personal to share. Instead, I say, “If you want me here, I’m not going to leave.”
The words are barely out of my mouth when she says, “Stay then.” Her face relaxes, and her lips turn up in a soft smile. It’s funny how happy she looks at the mere idea that I’ll be keeping her company tonight when she’s a princess that supposedly has everything she could ever want at her fingertips.
Her smile brings me satisfaction too and is all the encouragement I need. I stand, slipping my arms underneath Brianna, and carry her to the bedroom. Gently placing her on top of the silky sheets, I crawl into bed beside her and cradle her back against my front, relishing that we have a few more hours together.
Before closing my eyes, I whisper, “Rest, Love. It’s been a long day.”
“It has, but I’m not ready for it to be over yet. Did you happen to bring that other condom with you?”
I laugh. “I did. Should we save it for morning?”
“No. We’ll figure something else out then.”
“You really are perfect, aren’t you?”
“Quit talking and show me more of your masterful moves.”
“Your wish is my command.”
For the rest of the night, our limbs entangle as we explore each other. Fireworks explode like never before.
I can’t get enough of her.
Waking the next morning, there are only two problems. First, I lost Wimbledon. As wonderful as last night was, I still must come to terms with the loss. Second, we both know this will never happen again. For some reason, that bothers me more than it should.
2
BLAKE
TODAY
My heart rate soars. Sweat coats my palms. My chest tightens.
No! Please, not now. Not again.
