Page 63 of Romance with Mr. Bossy Pants

“She had this way with Michelle. They’d spend hours in the garden or baking in the kitchen. It was their thing.”

“That’s really sweet. It must have been hard for Michelle when...”

“Yeah, we struggled with it. It was like losing a piece of ourselves.”

“I’m glad you both are doing better now. It’s important to keep moving forward.”

“You’re not giving me that pitiful look,” I say. “Everyone does that when they hear about Maddie.”

“Well, I feel bad, for sure. Maybe if I knew you when it happened, my face would be like the rest of them. In any case, you and Michelle have moved on a lot since then, and that’s a good thing. I’m sure Maddie wouldn’t want you wallowing around forever.”

“Chloe, I—”

“It’s true. Look, Daniel. What I see in you is this tough-as-nails guy who’s been through hell and back. And you’re still standing, still fighting. That’s not something to pity; that’s something to admire. You have a little girl who thinks the world of you, and you’re her hero. You don’t need anyone to feel sorry for you. What you need is people around you who get that, who see the real you. People who’ll have your back, come what may. Yes, you have to work on your delivery with people, that’s for sure, but we can fix that. So no, I’m not going to look at you with sad eyes and a head tilt. I’m going to be here to cheer you on or be ready to step in when you need a break, or I’ll just be someone to talk to. Occasionally, though. Because at the end of the day, we’re all just trying to make it through. And nobody should have to do that alone, even if they’re...you.”

Something snaps in my head as soon as the last word escapes Chloe’s lips, and suddenly, I know what I’ve been holding back.

This needs to stop one way or another. I’m done hiding my sickening, frustrating attraction to this incredible woman. I have a feeling this isn’t one-sided, especially since she made the first move that night.

Now, it’s my turn.

I see the way she’s looking at me, her eyes swelling with desire, electricity crackling in the air.

Leaning in, I brush my lips against hers, and instantly, her lips part, inviting me in. I can’t help but wonder if she’s been waiting all night for this. Our kisses meld together with an equal fervor, her sweetness intoxicating. Her fingers glide down my chest, making the hairs on the nape of my neck stand. At that moment, nothing else matters but the passion radiating between us.

Without a word, I scoop Chloe up into my arms. She wraps her legs around my waist, holding onto me as if I’m her lifeline.

There’s no turning back now.

21

Chloe

My muscles scream once my eyes pop open.

Well, they’re not necessarily screaming in pain, but they’re definitely reminding me how long it’s been since I worked them so deliciously hard.

But man, was it worth it.

As I try to stretch out some of the stiffness, I wonder what any of this even means.

Luckily, the bed is empty, so I crawl out quietly, feeling like a thief in the night. I tiptoe around the room to pick up my scattered clothing.

Really, Chloe? This is what you're resorting to?

This brings back college memories, doing the walk of shame before sunrise after a terrible choice for a one night stand. Ugh!

But of course, as luck would have it, my toes get tangled with my thong straps and I fall forward, grabbing the nightstand to catch the fall.

Phew! That was close!

I'm playing right into the hands of the "clumsy" label...again. I’m beyond help at this point.

I finally get myself together. Now's my chance to make a run for it without being spotted by Daniel or Michelle. I head downstairs and carefully cross the hallway to the front door. Unfortunately, fate isn’t on my side today.

“Hey.” Daniel’s voice comes from somewhere behind me, and I jump out of my skin, my heart racing.

I spin around to see him standing by the kitchen doorway.

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