Page 87 of Craving Cooper

I glance around at the white-tiled walls, the modern fittings, and the enormous shower we’ve just stepped out of, and smile up at him.

“And I’m eternally grateful for that,” I say, and he nods.

“So am I.”

I giggle, and he laughs, taking my hand and pulling me into his living room.

I haven’t spent much time out here, other than when we prepared our meal last night, and ate it… although I was more interested in the company than my surroundings at the time. Now, in daylight, I can see the living room is simply furnished with a large couch, a couple of bookcases, and a wall-mounted television. The art on the walls is soothing, just like in the bedroom, and I turn to Cooper and smile.

“This is nice.”

“It’s basic, but it’s all I’ve ever needed.” He leads me into the kitchen and turns around to face me. “Are you a tea or coffee person first thing in the morning?”

“Coffee. I’ve never developed a taste for tea.”

He smiles. “Neither have I.”

I watch while he prepares the coffee, adding fresh grounds to the machine, topping up the water tank and turning it on, before he wanders to the refrigerator.

“I’d say we could have eggs, but we had those last night.” He looks over at me. “How about pancakes?”

“Sounds amazing.”

He grabs some milk and eggs, returning to me and nodding to the seats on the other side of the breakfast bar.

“Why don’t you sit?”

“I can help if you like?”

“You’re only wearing a towel.”

“So are you.”

“I know… and there isn’t much space in here.”

“I remember from last night.”

“Exactly.”

“Exactly what?”

He leans over, lowering his voice. “If you come around here, I’ll be too tempted to bend you over the breakfast bar and fuck you.”

I gasp and he chuckles, turning away to fetch a bowl, while I do as he suggests and take a seat. As much as I like his idea, I’m also hungry, and we’re running out of time. Besides, I’m enjoying myself. It feels very domesticated to watch him cook… even if this is his space and I don’t live here.

“Have you always said what you feel?” I ask, and he spins around, tilting his head at me.

“What I feel?” He looks confused and I have to smile.

“What you want, then. Have you always been able to just come out and say things like that?”

“Like wanting to bend you over and fuck you, you mean?”

“Yes.”

“I guess so. I’ve always thought it was important to be honest… especially when it comes to sex. If you can’t be open about sharing your body, or the person you’re sharing it with, then what hope is there?” he says, whisking up the pancake batter in a large bowl while standing across from me.

“None, I suppose.”

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