18
“No… because of Donovan. I’m just not ready.”
He takes my hand in his, and his thumb rubs the diamond on my finger. “I’ve noticed,” he says quietly. “I know he was the love of your life, but I’m hoping you can let me in soon.”
He’s breaking my heart. I hope so too. “Goodnight, Weston. Thank you for the amazing night.”
“Do me a favor,” he whispers against my ear. “Wear a skirt on Monday, and no panties.”
I smile. “I don’t believe that particular kind of request is listed in the agreement, Sir.”
“Damn the agreement,” he scoffs. “You won’t kiss me… at least give me a consolation prize.”
“Sorry, no can do,” I whisper, aroused at the thought of being pantieless around him all day, at the possibility of sinful stolen touches. “But perhaps I could wear a thong for you.”
He smiles. “Yes, that will do. For now.” He takes a step back. No hug. No peck on the cheek. “Goodnight, Grasshopper,” he says, and turns on his heel.
I’m taken aback by his abrupt departure. He’s upset. I can tell. I get it. Someone like him, a control freak, doesn’t like not getting his way. He really craved that kiss. But so did I.
My heart is heavy as I open my door.
Claudia is sitting on the sectional, watching mindless reality TV. She bounces off the sofa when she sees me. “How was it?”
I smile. “It was great. The food was amazing.”
“Forget about the food… tell me abouthim.”
I laugh. “How was Ethan? Is he sleeping?”
“Yes, he’s sleeping,” she replies impatiently. “He was great. Now, give me the goods. Did you two…?”
I shake my head. “No, I told you… we’re not doing that.”
She seems thoroughly disappointed. “What? What about some kissy-kissy action?”
“No… none of that either.”
She cocks a brow. “What’s wrong with you? The man is hot… I’d be on that like steak on a grill. Is he gay?”
I laugh. “No, he’s not gay.” Unlike Abigail, Claudia is not privy to the unique relationship Weston and I share. And she would never understand my reluctance to move forward. She doesn’t know what losing a loved one is like.
“Well, I was hoping for some juicy details, but what can you do.” She heads toward the entry hall. “I guess your date was a dud. I should get going.”
I reach for her and give her a squeeze. “Thank you so much, Claudia. I really appreciate you babysitting tonight.”
She shrugs. “What are friends for? And besides, I had the night off, and nothing better to do on a Saturday night… the downsides of dating a chef.”
“So it’s not all roses and lollipops?” I tease.
“Well, we both work nights and weekends so we’re perfect for each other,” she points out. “And the sex is mind-blowing.”
I shake my head. “Okay… don’t need to hear more.”
“You know… sex?” she jokes. “It’s something you do with someone else, and it feels really good. You should try it sometime.”
“Get out of my house,” I scoff jokingly.
She laughs, and she’s out the door in a flash.
