Page 83 of Unexpected Hero

“Oh it’s disgusting. I agree.” I pat the bed. “You can sit up here with me.”I cut off the objections brewing in his eyes by adding, “Just sit. Above the covers. I won’t try anything. Honest.”

His face reveals nothing as he considers my offer. How does he stay so stoic? Is he as calm on the inside as he usually seems on the outside?

What must that be like?

Unsure if he’s going to cave or is merely killing time while he thinks of an excuse, I attempt to convince him. “I’ve been lonely lately. Been here for a month now, and you’re my first guest. And I like your company. Please.”

Vulnerability is never easy, but honesty has a certain therapeutic quality.

After an eternity of indecision, he finally shrugs and eases toward the bed. “Fine. What are we watching?”

Chapter 15

From the texts of Sugar Bear and Dominant James

The next day...

Sugar Bear

I woke up, and you weren’t here. I didn’t get to say goodbye or thank you for the 80th time.

Dominant James

You fell asleep during the movie. I didn’t want to wake you.

Sugar Bear

Thanks for making sure I was under the covers before leaving. But how did I end up naked?

Dominant James

What the fuck?

Sugar Bear

Why are you calling me?

Dominant James

Lettie, I promise I didn’t remove your clothes.

Sugar Bear

I was kidding. Gotcha!

Dominant James

To be clear... you didn’t wake up naked, right?

Sugar Bear

No. I was still in my sundress and comfy under the covers, just like you left me.

Dominant James

Thank fuck. I was about to lose my shit.

Sugar Bear

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