Chapter 22
Keeton
As soon as Lewis slithered out of the shop, the first words out of her mouth were, “You love me?”
“You heard that?”
“I did.”
Nodding, I smile, “Good.” I move closer until I’m able touch her. “Yeah, babe. I do.” I wrap my arms around her and pull her to me.
“But, we just met.”
“So? There aren’t rules about this kind of thing. The second I saw you, I knew.”
She stares into my eyes. “I know. I felt that way too, but I just figured it was because you’re so hot. I assumed everyone falls in love with you at first sight.”
I chuckle. “I highly doubt that, love. But, if that’s the case, I’ve only loved one woman back.” Kissing the tip of her nose, I add, “You, my beautiful, Lainie.”
She pulls out of my arms stepping away, too far for me to draw her back. “You were so mean to me yesterday. I thought it was your way of pushing me away. I assumed you decided one night was enough.” She rolls her eyes, “Until the booty call.”
“Booty call?”
Jamming her hands on her hips she snaps, “Keely said it was a booty call. I’m not a booty call kind of girl, Keeton.”
“Well aware, doll face. You’re the real deal.”
“I am. I’m a keeper.”
“I know, honey. That’s…”
“But, I’m not sure I’m ready for all of this right now.” She says waving her hand around in a circle. “You’re pretty intense, Keeton.”
I squeeze my eyes shut. I am that. “I know.”
“Keeton. I just got out of a terrible marriage. I was looking forward to spending time writing.”
“I know.”
“I can’t just assume we’re a sure thing. What if I don’t like you in a month or two?”
“It’s possible.” I smirk. “I am an asshole.”
She makes a frustrated noise. “I hear that.”
“So, what now?” I ask, sitting down in my office chair. I’m giving her space right now so she has a chance to say what’s on her mind.
“I think we should date.”
“Date. Okay.” I’m all for dates if they end up like our first one.
“I’ll work here until Molly gets back, but I am not going to be here all day. I want to write, and I do my best work in the morning. So, that means I won’t be in until lunch time.”
“Alright. But, may I make a suggestion?”
She doesn’t answer right away. If I had to guess, I’d say she was preparing for me to suggest she not write or something.
“What is yoursuggestion?” She says ‘suggestion’ like it’s something distasteful.
