My leg bounced as I waited for a response. I didn’t feel adorable at that moment, more like the world’s biggest asshole for embarrassing myself.
Nick: Always so beautiful.
Nick: And you’re totally blushing.
I was blushing and smiling so wide my cheeks ached. Nick was getting to me. Life didn’t seem so lonely and boring when a good man gave you all his attention. Nick was a good man, and wanting more of him wasn’t a sin. Why couldn’t I shake that feeling?
Me: Maybe. You’re the one who brought up the kiss. Your fault.
Five long, awkward minutes of silence seemed like an eternity. I took in a deep breath. My attempt at flirting went over like a lead balloon.
Nick: I wish we could be somewhere I could take my time. Explore those sweet lips nice and slow like they deserve. Parking lots and storage rooms aren’t cutting it for me.
I ran my fingers over my lips. The thought of Nick kissing me slowly, exploring my mouth, made me cross my legs tight to stifle the ache between them. Other places his mouth could explore popped into my mind, and the ache became a full-on throb. My poor, deprived body. I needed to stop this flirting, sexting, whatever the hell it was.
Me: Me, neither.
Nick: Really? Well, Ella-Jane, you and I are going to have to figure that out.
Me: Yes, we will.
Nick: Promise?
Me: Yes. Goodnight, Nick.
Nick: Goodnight, sweetheart.
I had a lot to figure out. Maybe I wanted more with Nick, but did I have the guts to take it?
“CAN WE WATCHa movie tonight, Mommy?” Jack asked me through a mouthful of mac and cheese.
“Sure! What are you in the mood for?” I rose from the table and cleared most of the plates away. My son liked to gab during dinner, so he was always the last to clear his plate.
“Deadpool!” His eyes grew wide as an expectant smile spread across his cheeks.
“Nice try!” I winked before I sauntered into the kitchen. I chuckled at his muffled groan. My phone buzzed on the counter with an unread text.
Nick: I got stuck with the night shift tonight. Keep me company?
Me: I can’t go to the firehouse. I have Jack.
Nick: I meant talk to me. But that’s sweet you wanted to come see me.
Me: I didn’t say that.
Nick: Yes, you did.
Me: No, I didn’t.
Nick: You’re pursing your lips at me right now, aren’t you?
“Mommy, why are you smiling at your phone?” Jack stared at me with narrowed eyes.
Was I smiling? I glanced at my reflection in the door of the microwave, and sure enough, my lips curved all the way up.
Me: I’m not doing anything with my lips.
Nick: You could be if you came here. You know, like you really want to.
