This gesture does something to my heart, but it's two-fold. The more I feel for Penn, the more I question what Duke and I are doing. And that line of questioning is a dangerous little game to play, a slope that could easily become slippery.
"Thank you," I say, holding the box to my chest. "This is so thoughtful. Every gift was."
In the distance, the sky is turning a muted baby blue over the mountain range to the east. Soon the sun will peek over, making Penn's presence more visible to anybody out early.
"I should go," he says, his thoughts in the same place as mine.
"I wish you would come inside."
I hear it. The double entendre. Penn gives me a meaningful look, and I press my lips together.
And you know what? I've heard what he said about this ring on my finger, and I respect it, but that doesn't mean I can't have a little fun with it.
In a voice as thick and golden as local honey, I say, "You can do that, too. Inside. Outside. Consider me your canvas."
Penn sits back in his seat. Closes his eyes. Pinches the bridge of his nose. "Fuck, Sunshine.Fuck. Go into your house. Go into your houseright fucking now."
But I don't really feel like listening. "Or what?" My eyebrows are raised, my chin lifted.
"Or I will fuck that ring off your finger."
I stand up, bending slightly, placing my lips near the shell of his ear, and whisper, "Don't threaten me with a good time, Sailor."
Then I walk into the house, puzzle in hand.
Chapter 37
Penn
It's official.Daisy St. James was created to ruin me. I was made to burn for her.
Chapter 38
Penn
There is a massive spider in my kitchen.
PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE.
You have to come over.
I'll be there in ten. Keep an eye on it in case it moves.
What do I do if it moves?
Track it, so you can tell me where it goes.
It has fangs. One giant eyeball. Spiked legs. I think it knows my name.
Is this spider real?
Hello?
Sunshine?
See you soon.
Daisy answersthe door while I'm knocking.
