It was going to be a long, scorching evening.
As wonderful assex with Blake was, after making love three times in fairly quick succession, Vi needed time to catch her breath and gather her thoughts. When he hinted at wanting another round once he recovered from the shower that had topped any fantasy, she called a halt and cinched the sash on her robe. “Let’s take a break, okay? It’s been a while since we last ate, and I need food.”
They decided on fried egg sandwiches for dinner. “I need to wash my hands first,” she told him, and padded into the bathroom. Finally, a chance to think. Standing in front of the mirror, she fixed her hair. Her skin was rosy and she looked thoroughly sated. She definitely was, had never been with anyone like him. He was passionate and generous, and seemed to enjoy exploring every inch of her body in exciting ways that kept her wanting more. Praising her for her passion and enthusiasm made her feel sexy, but also uneasy.
Was he mostly interested in her for the sex? The dismal thought put a damper on her high spirits.
Every time they came together, her love for him had grown until her heart was so full, holding back her feelings was almost painful. Which was crazy. She’d known him for a month, not long enough for such deep emotions. Yet, despite knowing the risks, she’d thrown caution to the wind and given her heart to him. If he found out… A chill shook her. He wouldn’t. She couldn’t bear his rejection.
The best way to protect herself was to end the relationship before he did. As if doing that could block the heartache. At least she’d save face.
Her mind made up, she headed back into the kitchen, where Blake had already made the sandwiches. Couldn’t get rid of him yet. No longer hungry, she forced the food down.
“Suddenly, you’re awful quiet,” he said as they finished. “You okay?”
The perfect opening to break up. But her courage flagged. “I’m fine, thanks,” she lied. “Just tired. I need to get some sleep.”
A small part of her half hoped he’d try to convince her to let him stay the night, which proved what a screwed-up mess she was.
He didn’t even try. “I get that. This has been quite a day and an exceptional evening. There’s a lot left to do yet before the grand opening. I probably won’t see you until then.”
She nodded. A quick kiss and he was gone.
CHAPTER 27
Out of habit, Vi did the laundry and cleaning on Sundays, activities that left her free to think. She dreaded telling Blake they couldn’t see each other anymore, but it had to be. The question was, when and where?
She could use some advice from Carmie, but as she unloaded the groceries she’d bought that afternoon, Rose phoned. “What was your opinion of that wedding?” she asked.
“I thought it was sweet.” Although Rose couldn’t see her, she smiled. “You?”
“It was wonderful. Gran looked radiant, and Malcom seems totally gone on her.”
“The food was tasty, too,” Vi said. “It was good to see Peter.”
“I was happy about that and hoped we could spend today together, but he’s gone to the hospital. On a Sunday.” Rose blew out a loud breath. “That man…”
“He’s dedicated to his work.”
“Yes, and I should be used to that by now. I noticed you and Blake holding hands during the ceremony.”
“So that’s why you called.”
“Don’t sound surprised. You’re my big sister, and I want details. Are you two a thing now?”
Vi didn’t want to discuss that with Rose just yet. To her relief, her phone beeped, signaling a call from Carmie. “That’s Carmie. Bye.” She clicked over to her bestie. “I’m glad you called. How did you know I wanted to touch base?”
“Tell me about the wedding.”
“I really enjoyed it.” Vi shared the details.
“You’ve just convinced me to have an outdoor wedding,” Carmie said.
“Will Chris go for that?”
“He’d elope if I agreed to it, but I know he’ll like the idea. What did Blake think of the wedding, and how are things with him?”
Vi told her about meeting Whitney and then ending up at the townhouse. “We had sex again.”
