“It’s been a few hours, but I have work today, and I wanted to see you before I start.”
“You checking up on me, Ambros?” she teases as she slides the chain back and lets me in.
“Maybe. After last night, I just wanted to make sure you were still okay with what happened, and if you have any questions or feedback now you’ve slept on it.”
“Feedback? Wait, are you asking me to leave a review?”
“Smartass,” I chuckle, putting the bag of food and the tray of drinks I brought with me on the counter. I turn once my arms are empty and tug her into them, gently kissing her lips before pulling back. This woman tests my restraint like no other. “I brought breakfast for you and the princess.”
A thump sounds from upstairs before a series of smaller thumps gradually make their way downstairs. “I’m guessing she heard you,” Citi teases.
I move from her to the island so I can pull out the food, just as Star walks into the kitchen in a bright pink nightie. Her hair is a crazy mass of curls, and her unicorn is tucked under her arm. She looks at her mom as she walks in before her eyes drift my way and freeze. She spots the bag and they widen, then she runs my way, looking up at me expectantly.
“You hungry, huh?” She nods. “Me too, kid. Me too. That’s why I brought my favorite girls some breakfast. Go sit at the table, and I’ll bring it over.”
She does as I ask, while I grab a couple of plates and divide the food before carrying them over.
“We have pancakes, sausage, and scrambled eggs for the princess and breakfast sandwiches for Mom and me. Oh, drinks.” I turn and grab them before handing Star and Citi an apple juice each and myself a bottle of water. I tug the little cups of syrup and sauce from my pockets, place them on the table, then use my teeth to open one of the syrup cups and hand it to Star. “Trust me. You’re gonna want this too.”
She takes it and nods with a serious face before she licks her lips and digs in, making me grin.
“Thank you, Ambros. You didn’t have to do this, but we appreciate it.”
“You’re welcome. It’s been the highlight of my day.”
“Your day has barely even started yet.” She chuckles.
“I stand by what I said.”
She rolls her eyes and takes a bite of her sandwich, moaning with appreciation. My dick perks up in response.
Time and a place, Ambros. Time and place.
“So, do you ladies have any exciting plans for today?”
“I need to head over and visit Nevaeh. I want to see if she’ll look after Star next Friday for me.”
“I’m sure she will. What are you doing next Friday?” I ask before taking a bite.
She hesitates for a second before straightening her shoulders and answering. “I made an appointment to see a new therapist.”
I swallow my food and nod. “Good for you.”
She relaxes and carries on eating, making me wonder if she was worried about what I might think. “Thanks. I’m not sure if it will work out. But if it doesn’t, I won’t use it as an excuse to give up. I’ll try again until I find one that clicks with me. Too much happened for me to process it all. I can’t fix what is broken alone. I need someone to guide my way,” she admits with a bite of her lip.
“I’ve fought some of the strongest, fiercest opponents. But I don’t think I’ve ever met anyone as brave as you, angel.”
She leans closer, lowering her voice to barely a whisper so Star can’t hear us. “Why do you call me that? We both know I’m far too sullied to be an angel.”
I scowl. “You need a new mirror, Citi. I’ve never met a purer soul than you.”
Her mouth drops open in surprise. I can’t help but dip my head and kiss her lips before I return to my food.
The rest of the meal is eaten in comfortable silence. Once we’re finished, I clear the mess, kiss Citi on the cheek, and dip my head to kiss Star on the forehead. “Alright, ladies, I’ve gotta head to work. We’re still short-staffed, so it’s going to be a long day.”
“Do you want me to help out?”
I turn back and look at Citi, surprised by her offer. “You up for that?”
