“Thank you for being so patient. I don’t feel so lost.”
“That’s good.”
She was nestled against his side, and it felt right. He couldn’t believe they’d known each other for such a short time, and yet, he felt like they belonged together. He just hoped it lasted.
CHAPTER EIGHTEEN
Blakely woke excited to start the day. Jump didn’t have to return to work, and she had the rest of the week off. Maybe today she would spend time thinking about her future. Having a future that she chose was scary and exciting.
“Good morning,” Jump said as she stepped out of the bedroom.
“Hey, good morning.”
“I thought we would go to the beach today.”
“Nice. That would be fun.”
She moved to the kitchen and popped a slice of bread into the toaster. They’d dropped by the grocery store before going to bed, so they had food. They were planning on grilling burgers tonight, which sounded yummy.
There weren’t a lot of people at the beach and the weather was pleasant. They walked out to the water line and raced the waves coming up the beach. Her belly ached from laughing so hard.
Spending time with Jump was freeing. All the examples she had growing up of adults in relationships had centered on men dominating their women, and the women never having any fun. But with Jump, everything seemed fun.
After the beach, they headed to a cafe nearby. Jump ordered for them, because she had no idea what to get. When the food came out, she was impressed. It looked like a pizza, but it was different. No sauce, and more vegetables.
“Do you like?” Jump asked after she’d taken a few bites.
“Absolutely. It’s good.”
Jump’s smile made her feel warm inside. She was about to take another bite when a group of people came in. Jump waved to them and they headed their way.
Jump stood and shook the man’s hand. “Wolf, Caroline. It’s good to see you.”
Blakely wiped her hands on her napkin and stood. She wasn’t used to meeting so many people as she had in the last few days.
“Jump, how is it going? I heard your apartment burned down.”
Jump nodded. “Yes, it’s gone. I’m staying at Wave’s place for now.”
“Oh no,” Caroline said. “I guess that means his mother isn’t going to live much longer.”
Jump shrugged. “Yeah, she’s not doing so great.”
“I’ll send some food to her house.” Caroline’s gaze turned toward her and the automatic urge to shrink back hit. But then Caroline’s smile widened. “I’m Caroline and this is my husband, Wolf.”
“This is Blakely. Her apartment was destroyed, too. She’s staying with me at Wave’s place.”
Caroline took her hand. “It’s nice to meet you.”
“Thank you. It’s my fault the apartment burned down.”
Wolf’s head cocked to the side. “How is it your fault?”
Jump shook his head. “It’s not your fault. That jerk acted on his own. He absolutely did not have to start that fire.”
“Who are you talking about?” Wolf asked.
Caroline grabbed Wolf’s arm. “I’m going to order. Why don’t you sit and talk while I place the order.”