Page 26 of Icebreaker
“How do you stay organized at work?”
“Mr. Haddad gives me a list and I check it off. I know what to do and the exact order to do it in.”
“Why not just give yourself your own to-do list?”
“Because I know it’s not real since I’m the one who made it. When he gives it to me, I have expectations, and that’s what motivates me to do it. If it’s just me, it doesn’t matter because nothing will happen either way. If I want a treat, I can get a treat.”
“How would you feel about a chore chart? If you get all your chores done, then you get a treat?”
“Can we put stickers on it?”
“Is it even a chore chart without them? We can go to the store together so you can pick out the ones you like best.”
Ellie smiled happily and did a quick spin to celebrate.
“I have a confession to make, and it may make you change your mind. I really, really, really don’t like the idea of physical punishment.” The change in Ellie’s demeanor was swift.
“Is there a reason behind that or just preference?”
“Mostly a preference. Is that a dealbreaker for you?”
I pulled Ellie toward me so I could give him a quick hug. “It’s absolutely not a dealbreaker for me.”
“Cool.”
“You got a little something on your face.”
Ellie turned to me with an expectant grin, and I happily complied with the unspoken invitation he’d offered. I picked up the napkin, wiped the side of his mouth, and then did the same with his hands. “There you go, kiddo.”
Ellie gave me a quick grin and then jumped off the blanket spread underneath the tree.
The first half of our hike took about forty-five minutes and led us deep into the forest. The trail dead-ended at a pond with a small waterfall. It wasn’t deep enough to go swimming, but wading was possible.
“Do you think I can get in the water, Daddy B?” Ellie looked longingly at the water.
“You can, but it’ll be cold as shit since it’s mountain runoff and it’s only March.” I hadn’t even finished speaking before Ellie collapsed onto the ground, stripping off his shoes and socks and rolling up his pants legs.
“It’s going to be freezing,” I warned one more time.
Ellie gingerly walked to the edge of the pond, took a breath, and then stepped into the water. He took about three more steps before he jumped back out.
“Gaaah, why didn’t you tell me it was so cold?” Ellie looked at me accusingly.
“Me? I warned you! Maybe next time you’ll listen to your Daddy.”
Ellie’s soft smile at my reference reassured me that we’d made the right call. I couldn’t predict the future, but I truly hoped we had one together. Ellie was everything I knew I needed. He was quiet and shy, but also kind and sweet. And, on top of all that, sexy and smart.
“Maybe next time I should.”
“Come here and I’ll warm you up.”
Ellie hopped his way back over to the blanket and collapsed next to me. I immediately pulled him into my arms. I lay on my side and tucked him close so his face could be buried in my neck and my legs could cover his lower half.
“Oh my god, kiddo, your feet are freezing.”
“I’m sorry,” he stammered. “I really thought it would be warmer.”
“We’d better get you warmed up.” I nuzzled the column of his throat and nosed the sensitive crease on his earlobe. I took it between my teeth and nibbled softly. His sharp gasp spurred me on, and I moved my hand to trail along his chest.
