Page 9 of Lust & Lies
And why did I suddenly feel self-conscious?
“Um...” He paused, rubbing the back of his neck. “I think that’s the most words you’ve said to me at one time since you woke up.”
“Is it?” I asked, frowning.
“Yeah. You sounded like your old self a little.”
“Did I?”
“Yeah, you did. I’ve been wondering when you’d start talking more. I can’t know what you need if you don’t tell me. And I can’t work based only on what you used to like because some of what you used to like may not be what you like right now.”
He paused as if he expected me to say something. But the things I wanted to say wouldn’t be something he’d want to hear. Therefore, I remained silent.
“Though I plan to follow the doctor’s orders, I want you to tell me when you’re feeling frustrated or uncomfortable. I’m your husband. You can tell me anything.”
“Anything?” I said, cocking my head to the side.
“Yeah, anything.” He shoved his hands into his pockets. “Is there something you want to say?”
Should I say it? I shouldn’t. I didn’t want to make things more awkward than they already were.
“I know that look,” he told me. “You do have something you want to say. Say it? Get it off your chest.”
I stared down at the ground.
“I dare you,” he muttered.
My gaze snapped to his to find him smiling at me.
“Did you just dare me?” I asked, narrowing my eyes.
“I dare you to tell me what you’re really thinking right now.”
Why did having him dare me infuriate me so much? I saw the challenge in his eyes. He didn’t think I’d do it. He didn’t think I’d say what was on my mind.
“Okay,” I said.
If he wanted me to tell him, I’d tell him, and I wouldn’t hold back.
“For starters, this place doesn’t feel like a home,” I stated.
“Is that all?” he asked.
“No. It’s ugly.”
“What?” his eyes widened. “Are we looking at the same home?”
“I mean, it’s gorgeous. It’s perfect. And that makes it ugly. It’s too showy. I know you say I designed it, but that must make me one of those rich socialites who like showing off their wealth because that’s what this room screams. If you ask me, it’s a waste of money.”
“Anything else?”
That question only irritated me further.
“Annnddd,” I said, moving closer to him. “Not only does this home feel too showy, so do you.”
His gaze narrowed. “What do you mean by that?”
“You just don’t seem like the type of man I’d vow to spend my life with.”
