Page 122 of Closer than Ever

“Open it.”

The paper was ripped open and removed within seconds.

“Handcrafted by yours truly.”

“You made this?”

Anna nodded, feeling suddenly like a show off, which didn’t sit well with her. “I was going to print out some photos and put them in, but I thought maybe it could be for our new trip and all the adventures we’re going to have together? Be something to look forward to for when we get back.”

Hayley stood and wrapped her arms around Anna’s neck and shoulders. “Thank you, Anna. I love it. This is so thoughtful. When did you make it?”

“I started making it not long after you left for Europe. It gave me something to focus on. I finished it this week when you were out walking with Myla.”

“I had no idea. That’s so sweet.”

“I also wanted to say thank you for staying with me here in Balbuinidh these past few months. It’s helped me get things ready to go away, what with working my notice and getting someone to live here while I’m gone.”

“It’s been my pleasure. Really.” Hayley smirked. “More than happy to oblige you in your needs.”

In hindsight, it was wonderful to be at home given how much sex they’d been having. There were few distractions and it meant they could stay in bed all morning or all weekend, sometimes, if they wanted to, and they often did. “We have been busy.”

“Oh Anna, when are you ever going to notice that I’m flirting with you?”

Anna laughed. “I know you are. I’m just choosing to ignore it. We will get nothing done today if not.”

“So serious.” Hayley shook her head. “I still have my work cut out with you.”

“I’ve enjoyed our sex-era.”

Hayley laughed. “You make it sound like it’s over.”

“You know what I mean. It’s pretty much all we’ve been doing these past few months. Now we’re going to go and see the world together. There won’t be as much time for… you know.”

“Oh honey, you have no idea how creative I can be with sex in unusual places.”

“I’m actually a little terrified about what you’re going to come up with. There’s an extra element to worry about when there are murderous snakes and spiders around.”

“We’ll never do anything you’re not comfortable with.”

Anna kissed her on the cheek and sat down on the sofa.

Hayley joined her. “So, we’re going to have eras, are we?”

“We’ve already had a lot of eras, but yes, I hope we will.”

“Me too.” Hayley put her hand on Anna’s thigh and absent-mindedly caressed it, sending tingles all the way to Anna’s core. This attraction between them was burning hotter by the day, if that was even possible.

“That feels nice.”

“I love touching you. I can’t get enough!” Hayley pulled Anna backwards onto the sofa, tickling her sides and laughing.

Anna laughed. “Stop!”

“Sorry. It’s just too tempting. You react so quickly. Then again, you react quickly when I touch you in other places, too.” Hayley smirked.

“Pfft. I do not.”

After moving the laptop out of the way, Hayley straddled her, with playful eyes turning hazy with desire. They locked eyes for a few seconds.

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