Cannon feels the stream several times, adjusting the lever. “There. That should be about right. I set all your cherry blossom supplies on the edge. Do you want me to pour some bubble bath in?”
I nod, still staring at the stream of water. It’s filling so fast. I’m mesmerized by the fact that Cannon doesn’t seem the least bit worried about the volume of water that will first get cold and then go down the drain.
None of the families I stayed with growing up were very poor, but in every home we were supposed to hurry through our shower or bath and not be wasteful. If we used the last of the hot water, there would be people in the house who couldn’t take a warm shower.
Westin had a conniption every time I bathed. I was lucky if he let me have one minute of hot water. He shouted about it as if I were the most wasteful human alive every time. “Three minutes, Eloise. I’m setting a timer.”
I shake myself back to the present and giggle as bubbles rise in the water. At least this time I don’t have to worry about putting too much in. Cannon did it.
“See this button?” he says.
I look at the spot on the edge of the tub and nod.
“Push it when you’re ready. Wait for the water to be above the jets, though. They will be kind of loud when they come on. I don’t want them to startle you.”
“Okay.”
He turns to me and sets his hands on my shoulders. “Eloise, prepare to be dazzled.” His grin is infectious. “Women go gaga for whirlpool tubs. I suspect I’ll never be able to get you out of here.” He kisses my forehead and turns to leave. “Yell if you need anything. I’ll leave the door open an inch and sit in the bedroom so I can hear you.”
“Thank you.” A part of me wants him to stay, but that wouldn’t be appropriate.
He did see my naked chest earlier, and I did have my first orgasm by grinding against his cock, but I guess it wouldn’t be right for me to ask him to stay while I get in.
It speaks volumes that I kind of want him to. I never expected to be in a situation where I met someone I would want to see me naked. That seemed like something I would avoid until I died. After all, my experiences with boys and men have been less than desirable. To say the least.
I’m trembling as I remove my clothes and put them in the hamper that Cannon showed me. He put a fresh nightgown and panties on the vanity. My towel is hanging on a heated rack next to the tub.
A heated rack… The concept is mindboggling.
As soon as I step into the water, I sigh. Heavens. It feels so good. Even better than yesterday. It’s deeper, and the bubbles smell so good.
Even though Cannon warned me about the jets, I still let out a little yelp when I push the button. The noise makes me jump. But it’s worth it. I can’t keep from grinning as I slide into the water, letting it cover me all the way up to my neck.
I close my eyes and take deep breaths. It’s hard to keep my demons at bay. In my head, I don’t think I deserve this. My mind toys with me. I’ve never done anything that would warrant me meeting someone good who would show me another way of life. A life where I might be free. A life where I don’t have to look over my shoulder constantly.
In this apartment, I can sleep without fear of being taunted, groped, blackmailed, drugged, kidnapped, sold into slavery…
In this apartment, I’m treated with kindness and respect. No one shouts at me to clean the kitchen or make dinner. No one orders me to take cold showers. No one takes away my lamp and forces me to sleep in the dark, even though I’m scared.
I open my eyes to make sure it’s all still real. I’m still in this heavenly tub with water at the perfect temperature, cherry blossom scent popping all around me. I can move my back around so that the jets hit me just right, working out my sore muscles.
My stomach is full of delicious foods I chose. I don’t have to work the night shift and sleep in my car, wondering when and where I’ll get my next meal.
I’m safe…
I’m safe…
Cannon was right. The jets keep the bubbles alive. They make me smile as they pop and then reform all around me. The sound of the jets is soothing.
When a soft knock draws my attention to the slightly open door, I’m not scared. “You okay, angel?”
“Yes. Thank you. Do I need to get out now?”
“No, Little one. Stay in there as long as you’d like. I just wanted to check on you.”
“Thank you.” I close my eyes again. This time, I’m not assaulted with bad memories. This time, I see Cannon behind my lids. He’s so good to me. He’s a genuinely kind human being.
I should be concerned about his plans for Larkin. I know he and Blade discussed him while June and I were shopping. I know their team killed Pete Stark yesterday. They’re going to kill Larkin, too. I’m not sorry because in my heart, I know Larkin is still kidnapping girls and trafficking them. He needs to die.
