And as sleep pulls me under, I know with absolute certainty that I've found exactly what I didn't know I was looking for.
My person.
My Daddy.
CHAPTER 8
Iwake up wrapped around Ethan like a vine.
My leg is thrown over his, my arm is draped across his chest and my face buried in his neck.
He's asleep, breathing deep and even, one arm wrapped securely around me.
I should probably be embarrassed by my complete lack of personal space, but I'm too comfortable to care.
The morning light filters through the curtains, soft and golden. I let myself enjoy this moment and all that came with it; the warmth of his body, the security of his arms, the knowledge that last night actually happened.
We're doing this.
We're really doing this.
His hand starts moving, fingers tracing up and down my spine in a way that makes me shiver.
"Hello baby," he murmurs, voice rough with sleep.
"How long have you been awake?"
"Long enough to realize you're a cuddler."
Heat floods my face. "Sorry. I can move?—"
"Don't you dare." His arm tightens around me. "I like it."
"Yeah?"
"Yeah." He presses a kiss to the top of my head. "How'd you sleep after your spanking?"
"Better than I have in months."
"Good. Me too." He shifts slightly so he can see my face. "What's your plan for today?"
"I don't have one, actually. The party is over. My job is done. I'm unemployed again."
"Not unemployed. Between opportunities."
I snort. "That's a fancy way of saying broke."
"About that." He sits up, pulling me with him. "I have a proposition for you."
My stomach flutters. "Another one?"
"This one's different." He takes my hands in his. "I want to hire you again. But not for personal shopping."
"What then?"
"Graphic design. I have a friend who runs a medical practice. They need a complete rebrand. He’s looking for a logo, website, and marketing materials. It's a big project. Good money. And I told him I knew someone perfect for the job."
I stare at him. "You're offering me actual design work?"