Page 115 of Revv

“What?”

“That’s a lizard.”

“I know what it is.”

His grin starts immediately. “That’s your monster?”

He leans into the shower, watching it skitter higher up the tile. “Brown anole. Shit, he's a big one too. Probably like four inches.”

I look at him slowly. “You would think four inches is big.”

His eyes cut straight to mine, and instead of taking the bait, his mouth pulls into that smug fucking grin. “Oh, we’re doing this?”

“Just making an observation.”

“Mm-hm.” He steps closer, clearly enjoying himself now. “Pretty sure you know exactly how many inches I’ve got, Mama.”

“Do I?”

“Yeah, you fucking do.” His gaze drags down me before coming back to my face. “And from what I remember, you weren’t exactly filing complaints.”

I fight the smile trying to break through. “Maybe I was being polite.”

He laughs. “You? Polite? Now I know you’re full of shit.”

“Your ego is disgusting.” I point toward the shower. “Can you put all those impressive inches to work and get the fucking lizard?”

His grin widens. “See? Knew you were impressed.” He looks back at the lizard. “Though, I’m petty sure this little dude is more scared of you than you are of him.”

“Good. He should be. Now get him the fuck out of my shower.”

Revel shakes his head, still laughing as he reaches toward the wall. “All right, Mama. I’ll handle your monster.” His eyes flick to mine, that cocky fucking grin spreading across his face. “Then you can handle mine.”

He actually winks.

I point at the lizard. “Get rid of him, pendejo.”

“Little dude was just hanging out. Probably scared as shit after you screamed at him.”

“Revel.”

“All right, all right.” He laughs, turning back to the wall. “Come on, little man. Your lease is up.”

I immediately take another step back. “Do not let that thing jump.”

“It weighs like three grams. It’s harmless.”

“I don’t give a fuck. Keep it away from me.”

He laughs again, somehow scoops the lizard up without losing a finger, and carries it out toward the balcony like this is an entirely normal part of his day.

I stay exactly where I am.

My heart is still pounding way too fast, partly from the scare and partly because my body had already been wound tight before nature decided to personally attack me.

The balcony door slides open and then shuts again.

A few seconds later, Revel strolls back into the bathroom looking way too fucking pleased with himself.