Page 43 of Off Script
“How are you feeling? About everything?”
“Better now.”
Her small hand is in mine, and I stroke her fingers. Her skin is so soft.
“Stay with me tonight.” My invitation is spontaneous, but since Harper left, I don’t want to leave Carlisle alone tonight.
Flustered, her eyes grow wide. “I don’t – I’m not… that kind of girl, Ben. I’m sure you’re used to moving quickly, but I’m not.”
I kiss her cheek chastely, trying to settle her nerves. “I’m sorry. I wasn’t clear. That’s not what I meant, Carlisle. I can’t leave you here alone. Not tonight, not after everything you’ve been through today. I’ll sleep so much better knowing that you’re close by and safe. I want to be there for you if you need me. I have two guestrooms at my house and either one of them can be yours.” Tugging her gently to my side, I whisper into her ear, “Please.”
When I lead her into my house half an hour later, she audibly inhales. “Oh my god, Ben. Your house is amazing!” She slowly turns in a leisurely circle, taking it all in.
“Thanks. I’d love to take credit for it, but it was already remodeled when I bought it last year, and I hired a designer to decorate and furnish it.”
“Still, it’s beautiful.”
“Are you hungry? Thirsty?”
She shakes her head. “No. Just tired.”
God, I am too. The adrenaline from finally seeing Carlisle has ebbed and now I’m exhausted. It’s insane that it was just this morning that I filmed the segment forGood Morning, USA. After last night’s drinking and this morning’s early wake-up call, I’m beat.
With Carlisle’s overnight bag in one hand, I lead her upstairs to the bedrooms. I point out the two guest rooms and then show her where my room is, in case she needs anything during the night.
Nibbling her lip, she hovers uncertainly in my doorway. I run my fingers across her cheek and through her hair, gently guiding her body into mine for another hug.
But this time, Carlisle is tense in my arms and seems uncomfortable.
Pulling back, I ask, “Hey, are you okay? If you’re feeling unsure about anything, I can always take you back to your condo or get you a hotel room. You don’t have to stay with me tonight if it doesn’t feel right, babe.”
With her face still tucked against my chest, her arms tighten around my waist. “Actually, I was considering a different alternative,” she responds hesitantly, her voice muffled.
“Which is…” I encourage,curious.
“Would it be alright if I stay in your room?” She peeks up at me. “With you?”
“Nothing would make me happier. I would love to fall asleep with you in my arms.” I grin down at her, pleased to see pink highlighting her cheeks.
She really did get embarrassed to suggest sharing a bed. God, she’s easy to read. I love how genuine she is.
Pushing our bodies through my doorway and into my room, I cup her cheeks in my hands. “But I’m serious, I’m not expecting anything from you. I want to take this slowly with you. You went through a lot today, and we’re not in any hurry. Okay?”
Bowing her head, she nods.
I show her into the master bathroom where she can change and get ready for bed. I retreat to the master closet, which doubles as a dressing room, to undress. Normally I just sleep in my boxer briefs, but tonight I pull on a pair of pajama pants too. I debate on also wearing a t-shirt but nix that idea. I'd get too hot.
When I exit the closet, the bathroom door is ajar. Softly, I knock and poke my head in. Carlisle is standing at one of the sinks brushing her teeth. “Is it okay if I join you?”
With the toothbrush hanging out the side out her mouth, she replies, “Of course. That’s why I opened the door.”
I can barely understand her through her mouthful of toothpaste, but I get the gist. When I enter, she gawps at my shirtless physique and suddenly I’m really glad that I opted to forego the t-shirt.
Standing behind her, I place my hand on her hip to reach over her to grab my toothpaste from the medicine cabinet. When my hand touches her body, it’s as if a bolt of lightning zapped me. The electricity that flows between us is powerful and undeniable. Her surprised eyes meet mine in the mirror, confirming that she felt it too.
I don't know how to explain what's happening between us.
But it feels right.
