That was hot. I close my eyes and just feel his fingers explore every inch of me there until I feel that wave crashing over me.
"Oh my God, Gabriel," I cry out as I shake and tremble beneath him.
"That's my girl," he says as he gently enters me, sliding into my wetness. He starts moving slowly and gently, until I join in his rhythm with my hips. We circle slowly and then pick up the pace until he is delirious with pleasure.
"Natalie, you feel so good."
"I love feeling you inside me."
Within a few minutes we both climax together, leaving us both sweaty and breathless under the blanket. We lay side by side and I start to giggle.
"What?"
"I was just thinking," I say, still breathless. "If this is what a strategic marriage is like, you just took me to several very convincing new places."
Gabriel huffs out a quiet laugh against my hair. "Good," he murmurs. "Because I can take you to a few more before the night is over."
I laugh softly and brush my fingers across his chest.
“You hockey players and your ridiculous stamina,” I murmur. “You’ve officially exhausted me for the night.”
He chuckles and pulls me into a tight hug.
The world narrows to the couch and the quiet house and the way his heartbeat feels against mine.
Gabriel's hand moves in slow, absentminded circles against my shoulder blade. Like he doesn't know he's doing it. Like I'm already something familiar to him. Something he's used to having close.
For the first time since this crazy plan started we stop pretending this marriage is just paperwork.
The TV is still playing but neither of us is watching.
My head rests against his chest.
His arm is wrapped around me.
The house is silent except for Daisy snoring again.
Reality slowly settles in.
Whatever this started as is not what it is anymore.
Chapter twelve
Gabriel
When I married Natalie the plan was simple. Protect custody. Stabilize the house. Get through the legal mess without my ex trying anything dramatic.
What I did not plan for was coming home after practice and hoping the kitchen light would be on because Natalie might be in there.
Jenna usually handles kid stuff like school projects and last minute cupcake emergencies. She’s organized. Calm. Efficient. I am grateful Natalie is willing to step in and help Maddie with this one.
Earlier this morning Jenna texted me.
Her mom is doing better.
Really better.
She thinks she can come back in a week or two.
