“That sounds cool.” I look down. June has a job. What kind of job could I possibly do that would bring in a useful amount of money? I don’t even have a high school diploma, let alone a college degree.
Cannon mentioned me getting my GED and going to college, but that’s so far out of my realm of comprehension I can’t even entertain it.
“Are you okay?” June asks softly.
“Yeah…” I try to suck back my emotions, but it’s hard. I can’t stop the unwanted tears that trickle down my face.
“Hey… I’m sorry. Did I say something to upset you?”
I shake my head, trying to stop crying.
June wraps her arm around me from the side and sets her head against my shoulder. “It gets easier. I promise. I know you’re overwhelmed.”
I nod. I can’t speak without sobbing, so I hold my breath instead. When I finally get my shit under control, I decide to change the subject. “Did you break your arm?”
“Yeah. I mean, I didn’t break it myself. This is actually how I met Blade. I was attacked outside my apartment. I managed to get away, but the asshole broke my arm.”
I gasp and pull back to look at her. “I’m so sorry.”
She shrugs. “Lord knows worse things have happened to both of us.”
“True.”
“Anyway, the cops picked up my attacker. I was at the police station the next morning to identify him. Blade was there with another woman who was also attacked by the same man. Her name is Simone. Maybe you can meet her someday. She’s super sweet. Long story short, that’s how I met Blade.”
“I guess we both got lucky, didn’t we?”
“We sure did. And the best part is that I only live two floors above you. We can get together anytime we want.”
I wipe my eyes and smile at her, beyond grateful that I met her.
She points at my shirt. “This is so pretty.”
Looking down, I laugh. “I love it. I didn’t know I would like something like this, but I do.”
She twists sideways, sitting up taller. Her expression is conspiratorial, and she glances toward the open door before saying, “We should have a shopping day. We can get together and order clothes and put them on our Daddies’ credit cards.”
I cover my mouth as more giggles erupt. I’m nowhere near being at a place where I would spend Cannon’s money, but this banter is making me float with happiness.
We jerk our gazes toward the open door when one of the men clears his throat.
Blade narrows his gaze at June. “What naughty plans are you making?”
For a moment, I hold my breath, staring at him. His voice is firm. But then I see the twinkle in his eyes and remember what Cannon told me. This is their dynamic. June does something naughty, and Blade reprimands her. It’s so odd, but I think I like their banter.
She rolls her eyes. “Daddy… Just because we’re whispering doesn’t mean we’re planning something mischievous.”
He chuckles. “Is your bottom not sore enough from last night, Miss I’m Innocent But I’m Going To Roll My Eyes While You Question Me?”
I shift my gaze to June who has risen to her knees and winces as she rubs her butt. I find myself shockingly intrigued and…jealous. Does he spank her when she rolls her eyes? I’m going to have to try doing that.
June bounces to her feet. “I was just suggesting to Eloise that we do some online shopping together since she doesn’t have much to wear.” She glances at me. “Wasn’t I, Eloise?”
I nod. “Yes.” Thank God she isn’t asking me to lie. That might be something she does to get into trouble, but I doubt I will ever be able to incorporate lying into my repertoire.
Cannon comes over to me, takes my hands, and pulls me to my feet. He cups my face and kisses me, which makes my cheeks heat. Kissing him is new. Kissing anyone is new. I’m out of breath when he’s done, and it was only a small peck. “I think it’s a great idea. Why don’t you do that this afternoon after your snack? I’ll set you girls up with a computer at the kitchen table. You can shop while Blade and I get some work done in my office.”
“I—”
