“So I’m not in your way. Before I leave.” I’m fumbling over my words again, but this time, I know why.
I like her.
I shouldn’t.
She’s given me zero signs that she’s into me.
Why would she be?
She’s carrying some other guy’s baby, and he’s not in the picture.
Tells a story all on its own, doesn’t it?
So I’ll do the right thing and give her space.
“I’ll leave enough dog food and treats for while I’m gone. And her schedule. You have my number if you have any questions.” I pointedly gesture toward the front yard.
A not-so-subtlenow that we have that over with, get the hell out.
So I can head out to the garage and beat the shit out of my punching bag.
She slowly rises, and when she sways on her feet, I go on high alert, shifting to the balls of my feet, ready to leap into action if she faints or gets sick or stumbles.
Ready to hold her like I did last night when the crow almost attacked her.
Smell her hair.
Feel her curves.
She notices.
The part where I’m trying to move to help her anyway.
You can tell by the way she holds out a hand to stop me. “I’m okay. Normal head rush after sitting on my legs. Thank you for the tour. And for a place to stay. I met my real estate agent at lunch today, and I’m sure I’ll find a place of my own very soon.”
I grunt like a complete dumbass who suddenly can’t remember words.
She bends and gives Jessica one last belly rub. “See you soon, pup. Be good, okay?”
Jessica grins.
Jessica-speak fornot for this guy, but I’ll smile like I’m agreeing.
Ziggy pauses as she heads past me and waits until I look back at her.
“If you change your mind and don’t want me to stay here, just let me know. I appreciate not having to move in with my parents, but it also wouldn’t be the end of the world.”
“House needs a sitter. You need a place to stay. It’s a good arrangement.”
She studies me while sweat drips down my back.
July heat or her seeing right through me to all of the fantasies I’m having about her that I need to stop having?
Hopefully the heat.
She nods and gives me a small smile that doesn’t reach her eyes. “Okay. Thank you. I’ll take good care of Jessica. And the house.”
I nod.
