He said I was the best damn kisser!
Another round of adrenaline spikes down my spine and to my toes. I get out of the shower, dry off, then tuck his note carefully into the drawer of my nightstand. I dry my hair, get dressed, and look at my reflection in approval.
Clear eyes, perfect makeup, and spot-on hair are exactly what I need Mom to see so she doesn't worry anymore. I hit all the objectives and can't help but think I'm glowing.
Of course I'm glowing.
Dr. Red Mercer kissed me! He carried me to bed and held my hand until I fell asleep. Then he wrote me a love letter!
I run back to my nightstand, pull out the letter, and snap a photo. I put it back into the drawer and pick an outfit that makes me feel soft and pretty, something that would drive Red insane, just in case I have a chance to "casually" run into him today.
By the time I head out the door, my entire body feels lighter. The world finally shifted into the version of reality I was meant to live in.
Nothing can ruin today.
My stomach growls loud enough to echo off the nearby glass storefront. Normally, I'd ignore it, but Red's note and his texts play in my mind with irritating, irresistible authority.
I clutch my purse tighter, feeling oddly thrilled at the idea of following his instructions. If he wants me fed, I'll eat. If he wants me rested, I'll sleep. There's something exhilarating about knowing he's watching and ordering me around, even from afar.
A café on the corner catches my eye, and I veer toward it, dodging a guy on a scooter. The chalkboard out front advertises "Egg Sandwiches – All Day."
Perfect.
Inside, I order a sandwich with eggs over easy, spinach, and cheddar. Then I order a latte, but remember the no-caffeine rule. "Wait! I can't have that. Let me get..." I scan the menu. "A mango-berry smoothie with protein powder.
Red will approve.
While I wait, I position myself near the window, the soft morning light making everything feel warm and cinematic. It's like I'm the heroine in a movie, and Red's the super-sexy, strong hero.
Pride fills me.
I saved my kisses for someone worth kissing.
The sandwich and smoothie arrive, and I can't help it. I lift my phone and snap a picture of me taking a bite out of the sandwich.
Warm yolk seeps into the toasted bread, the buttery edges giving way under my teeth as the first bite sends a slow, savory heat unfurling through my chest. I chew it, lick my lips, then glance at the photo.
A drop of yolk teases my bottom lip.
Perfect!
I take another selfie with the smoothie and dramatically purse my lips to make them look bigger.
That should remind him of last night's kisses.
Me: Fueling up. Approve, Dr. Mercer?
I add the photos, then hit send, and eat more of my sandwich. It tastes ridiculously good, or maybe everything does this morning because I slept, and Red stayed after he touched me like I mattered.
My phone rings, but I send Mom to voicemail and leave the shop. Then my text ringer dings.
Red: Good. Eat the whole sandwich.
Me: I added protein to the smoothie. Are you proud of me?
I add a hmm emoji and laugh right there on the sidewalk, earning a glance from a woman jogging past.
I take another big bite, snap a picture of the half-eaten sandwich, and send it with a small caption.
