Wrapping his arms around her waist, Flynn said, “Do you?”
“In a way, I suppose. I mean, I love my mother because she gave me life, but I can go for long stretches of time not seeing her or even speaking to her. And I’m okay with that. Worse, so is she. We sort of went along with what was expected of us for a few years, but I realize she’s not equipped to accept me for who I am. That’s not someone I want in my life, blood relation or not.”
“Huh. I hadn't thought of it that way.”
Bristowe rested her head on his chest. “It’s not the same, of course. I had two parents growing up, and they were loving and devoted. Even when they split and I chose my father, I tried to be her daughter. I thought I owed her that.”
“You don't really owe anyone anything simply because you share DNA.”
She cringed. “You’ve sure learned that the hard way.”
“I guess I have, doll.”
Looking up at him, she spoke again. “You’ve taught me so much, Flynn.”
Unable to resist, he kissed her some more. He had the woman of his dreams, and she was here in his arms. They had learned together.
“What have I taught you?” It was hard to let her speak when he wanted to continue tasting her lips with his.
“I’ve never been ashamed of my enjoyment of sex, but you still opened something up for me. A new perspective, a sort of understanding that there can be more.”
“That makes me happy.”
“Who knew you were a sap underneath the tough exterior?”
“Nobody, and I like it that way. I don't want anyone else to know.” Grabbing her ass, he leaned in to nibble on her neck. “It’s just for you.”
Moaning, Bristowe tilted her head to give him better access. “I like that idea.”
His phone rang, interrupting them. With an aggravated sigh, Flynn pulled it from his pocket with the intention of silencing it. But it was Brooks, so he knew he had no choice but to answer it.
“Brooks?”
“Flynn, Ace got in trouble at school.”
Backing away from Bristowe, Flynn sank into a chair while she watched him warily. “What did he do?”
“Vaping.”
“Seriously?” Swearing several times, Flynn shoved his hand in his hair. It had gotten too long, but he hadn't taken the time to get it cut. “The fuck for?”
“Hell if I know, bruh. The school called Mitch to pick him up. Bruh, he’s suspended until they can decide on a punishment.”
“Fucking idiot. Why would he do that at school? Has he been doing it at home?” There was a long pause, and Flynn had his answer in that silence. “Fuck!”
“Sorry, bruh, I should have told you. It’s just that I didn’t wanna snitch on my brother.”
“It’s not snitching; Jesus. Learn the difference between tattling and helping, and for the love of God, stop saying bruh.”
“Sorry, Flynn, it’s a habit.”
“I know it is.” Dropping his head, he stared at a hole in his jeans and wondered what he was supposed to do next. “Has Mitch picked him up yet?”
“He’s on the way back home, yeah.”
“I’ll be at the house in ten.”
Hanging up, he gazed at Bristowe with anger and frustration in his eyes.
