Intellectually, I know that but hearing him say it feels…weird.
“Do we know it’s going to be a few thousand?” I ask.
“No, but I’m talking worst-case scenario. Even if you need awhole new engine, it’s a drop in the bucket for me, so that money and whatever debt we have between us doesn’t factor into my feelings.”
“I know you don’t want to get involved with a single mom but?—”
“I’d say it’s a little late for that. Weareinvolved.”
“Look, if you break my heart, it’s fine,” I say quietly. “I’m a big girl.”
“Here’s the thing—the reason I seemed checked out before is because I was battling my inner demons. Wondering why I’m depriving myself of something I want. Something we both want. I don’t know where this is going but it’s ridiculous that we’re both fighting it so hard.”
The fact that the jury’s still out about whether or not this could ever be more gives me hope. Because West is such a good guy. I know with every fiber of my being, if he falls in love with me, he’ll fall for Joey too. The only question is when or if that’s going to happen. And it’s a big if.
“What if…” I hesitate, because what I’m about to say sounds bad.
“What if…” he prompts, dropping his gaze to mine.
“What if we keep doing what we’re doing, spending time together, no expectations. Just fun and passion and companionship. The truth is, and maybe it’s different for you, but it’s been nice to have someone to talk to. To cook for. To sleep next to. Who notices when I’m cold. Sometimes it’s hard to do everything, even something as simple as covering myself with a blanket. I’ve been alone a long time.”
“Damn, angel. I hate that for you. But I’m here now.” He hugs me tighter. “Because I’ve missed all of those things too. Having someone to curl up with at the end of a long day. Cooking together. Sitting in front of the fire together with nowhere to be and nothing to do but be together. Believe me, I get lonely too.”
“You don’t have to be lonely anymore.”
“Neither do you.” His embrace tightens even more.
“How long will you be gone?”
“A week.”
I grimace. “That suddenly feels like an eternity.”
“I know. To me too. But I like the idea that you’ll be sleeping in my bed while I’m gone.”
“Probably not the whole time. I have to get home at some point.”
“Why?”
“Why?” I repeat, momentarily confused.
“Just stay here and relax. Joey can sleep in here with you if that’s what you want. You can spend time in my kitchen, since I saw how much you like it…”
I chuckle. “There’s also the added benefit of your shower. And that tub. Someday, I’m going to have a tub like that.”
“Any time you want to take a bath, just let me know. Hell, I may join you sometimes.”
“That sounds…sexy.” I drop my voice a little.
“It can be.” He pauses. “Be here when I get back. Waiting for me in my bed. Naked.”
I smile. “Okay.”
He looks down at me. “Okay? Just like that?”
“You just admitted you were lonely. I’m lonely. Being naked together is heaven. What else could I possibly say?”
“You’re a special woman, angel.” He wraps his arms around me and then pulls me on top of him. “And now I’m going to make love to you again. Maybe a few more times.”