Kissing her lips, I dig into my half.
It’s been fun having Stevie around. Texting with her while I’m on the road. Make-out sessions when I’m home.
But that’s it. Nothing more.
Every time I think we’re finally going to take that next step, she puts the brakes on things. It’s like a switch gets flipped and her walls go up.
When I ask her if everything is okay, she says it’s fine.
I like what we have now, but I want more.
“How was work today?” I shovel a bite into my mouth and love the explosion of flavors on my tongue—the peppers and cheese and meat.
“Good. One of my regular clients was in and I always like working with her.” Stevie wipes her mouth and grabs the water bottle and takes a sip. “How was practice?”
“Great. I think we’re going to be looking good against the Black Diamonds.”
“They’re the best team right now, right?”
I kiss her. I can’t help it. “I like it when you talk hockey.”
A bright smile lights up her face. “So that means I was right?”
“Yes, as much as I hate to admit that they are the best team, you are correct.”
“Yes.” She pumps her fist. “Look at me. I’m the Knights’ biggest fan.”
I laugh. “I’ll be sure to get that on a jersey for you if you ever come to a game.”
“Does that mean I’ll be invited sometime?”
“Do you want to come?” The thought of having her at a game excites me. I’d love for her to watch me in person, but I thought that would be too serious of a step.
“If you want me too, yeah.”
“I mean, I don’t want Caleb coming. I’d rather people not figure out I have a kid just yet.”
Stevie gives me a warm smile. “You’re a good dad, Bode.”
“Thanks.” I shy away from the attention, going back to the dish at hand. “Once we’re done with this, you want to play some video games?”
“Video games? I don’t know if you and I should play games together.” Her blue eyes are sparkling. Leaning closer, I steal the bite off her fork. “Hey.”
“Are you worried you’re going to lose?”
Stevie sets her fork down and stands. “You’ll have to show me, but let’s do it.”
Watching her walk into the living room, I can’t help but admire her ass. God, what I wouldn’t give to feel that with no barrier between us.
I shake that thought loose and follow her. There will be none of that tonight. Not until the woman who is driving me crazy decides she’s ready.
“Do you need me to teach you the rules?”
She grabs the controller from my hand and drops down next to me while I pull the game up. One of my easier ones to ease her into it.
“I’m a quick learner. I should be able to get it.”
“Want to make a bet on it?”
