Page 14 of Forever Love-Reimagined

“So, he still wants to have sex with you?”

“Yes. We have sex at least once a week. So I don’t get why he was watching porn.”

I had to stop my mind from wondering if she had their sex life on a schedule.

“Maybe he was bored. Or horny. But if you’re both happy in the bedroom, does it matter?”

“Are you kidding me? Of course, it matters. He was watching other women…naked. Why wouldn’t that bother me?”

“Have you ever found someone besides him attractive?” I mean, I didn’t know Adam well, and if I was honest, I thought she could do better, but he probably shouldn’t be crucified for this.

“That isn’t the same thing.” She was defensive, but she wasn’t exactly wrong.

“Okay, but did he cheat on you?”

“No.”

“Did he blow you off for porn?”

“No. But if he was happy, why would he need that?”

“Do you do things that make you happy that don’t involve him?”

“Again, that’s not the same.” She was a little more indignant.

“Why? Maybe he enjoys it in his free time. Just because it’s not something you would do doesn’t mean it’s wrong for someone else to do it.”

“Oh, so you think he would be okay with me watching naked men?”

“Honestly, I don’t know. Have you asked him? If he was hypocritical about you watching porn, then I’d say you have a leg to stand on. But if he doesn’t care, then I think you might need to tell him why it bothers you, if you even know the reason yourself.” That sounded like logical advice, but she didn’t seem convinced.

“Haley, you’re entitled to your emotions, but is it possible there’s something else troubling you, and it’s not the porn?” I hoped I got my point across without making her feel like her reaction was wrong, but it seemed like there was a deeper issue.

“Maybe you’re right. I was so upset last night that I ran out and haven’t seen him since. But I probably should talk to him. Thanks for listening to my meltdown. I really appreciate it. Sometimes, having an outsider’s perspective can help you see things differently.”

“Of course. You’re not alone. And if I can help you in any way outside of cleaning the studio, I will do it.” I smiled and nudged her elbow.

She headed to her purse and pulled out a compact, but she still looked flawless, even after crying.

Once she was satisfied with her presentation, she turned to me. “Okay. You’re off the hook. I’ll finish getting this cluster cleaned. We only have about fifteen minutes until the client gets here.”

I surveyed the room and honestly didn’t have any idea what her neurotic mind saw, but if it made her happy to organize the space, she could have at it. “All right, Hales. You work your magic, and I’ll lay out the prints. Once we’re done with our eleven o’clock, I’ll grab lunch and coffee for you. Anywhere you want.” I gave her my brightest smile.

She returned the gesture, but I could see the gratitude in her eyes. Something had shifted in our dynamic, and she was becoming someone I could trust with more than just work.

Chapter Nine

Blake - Tuesday

After leaving Steph in bed, I came into the office early because I needed space. The dream left me so unsettled that I either had to distract myself or figure out my feelings.

When I arrived at work, Ty was already standing inside my office updating my calendar, and it seemed like the best option was to address my stress.

“Will you close the door?” I asked Ty, and he happily did.

“What’s the goss?” He was as bad as a schoolgirl at a slumber party.

“There’s no goss. I just needed to talk to you for a minute.”

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