Page 39 of Under Ground

“You’re not the only one.” I laugh and point at the condom. “I should get rid of this.”

“There’s a bin in the bathroom.”

She lies back and closes her eyes while I dispose of it and come back. As I get into bed she sits up.

“I’ll be back in a minute.”

When she returns, I pull her into my arms, her back against my chest, and nuzzle her neck.

“I think I’m going to sleep like a log now,” she murmurs.

And then there are no more words because her breathing evens out as she drops off to sleep.

I close my eyes and draw in a deep breath.

This isn’t what I came to this country for, but now I’m doubly grateful for being cast. The movie will be a boost for my career, but this? This is the best thing that’s ever happened to me. She is the best thing that’s ever happened to me.

Lana is the unexpected bonus, and this is far more than a fling as far as I’m concerned.

She’s my future.

10

Lana

Before I know it, it’s like we’re a family.

No.

Alex’s acceptance of Casey calling him Daddy made it easy. Maybe too easy.

I’ve protected us both from heartache all this time, not letting anyone get too close. But I made an exception because Casey practically demanded it. And now I worry we’re all in too deep.

Casey knows Alex isn’t her father, but she still calls him Daddy. And me? I’m falling in love with this man who sends me a basket of banana muffins and my favourite flowers once a week at work.

But his time here is going to come to an end—and soon.

It’s hard to think about that when I’m curled up in bed with his warm body beside me. We’ve continued to keep this part of our relationship a secret from Casey. Getting to know him is one thing. Finding him in my bed is another.

“I should go,” Alex murmurs. “I’ve got to get to set, and Casey will be awake soon.”

I nod, clasping my hands above my head and stretching. “You should.”

Before I know it, his lips are on my nipple, and I laugh as a warm hand cups my other breast.

“This is the life.” I sigh.

“I could do this every day with you,” he says.

I laugh softly. “You nearly are. If neither of us had to work …”

“We’d never get out of bed.” His kisses are tender and gentle. I’ve never had a relationship like this—nothing compares to it. Letting go will be one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do.

But I can see a time when I’ll have to do it.

Thinking is hard, though, when Alex kisses his way down my body, positioning himself between my legs with a sly grin on his face.

Oh, how I love this part.

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