Page 127 of Playing My Rivals

He hesitates but can’t help peeking inside. His face turns red when he sees all the romantic items. He bears down on his teeth and faces the door.

“Who knows where all that romance will lead us, but I’m sure you can imagine.” I pull the bag closer to me and look inside. “All the items needed to make her favorite activities come to life are in my arms. I can’t wait to dive in.”

The doors open to his floor. He pushes past me without saying another word. He doesn’t need to. His stiff gait and flexed arms are enough to tell me he’s more than upset.

“Hunter, this has been an amazing bath. Thank you.” She gathers some bubbles to cover herself.

“You’re welcome. I have some other surprises for you when you’re done here.” I sit on the edge of the tub. “Hand me that bath sponge and I’ll wash your back.”

She grabs the loofa and hands it to me.

Nice.

I thought I was going to have to fight her on it.

“Lean forward a little more.” I situate myself so I can reach her without getting wet.

She shifts forward. I start running the sponge over her back. It’s such a small gesture, but it fills me with hope.

“I just realized this is the first time you’ve let me touch your bare skin in over a month.” I gently splash some water down her back. It cascades down to her hips.

“I know, but this type of touching is special.” She hugs her knees to give me more room.

I run the sponge over her shoulders. “The other kind of touching is better.”

“It can be, but I like this for us right now. It’s more nurturing and I think we need it.” She turns her head and rests on the top of her knees.

She takes my breath away. “You’re so beautiful.”

“You’re very sweet.” Her green eyes glow against her skin. “And handsome.”

As much as I want to take her right here, her smile and softness are enough for me.

“I haven’t seen you this relaxed since you returned from Denver.” I place the sponge back where it belongs. “And you still have a massage coming up. Some of your belongings are still here, so pick out some pajamas. I’ll meet you in the bedroom.”

Her eyes are dreamy as she nods and slowly moves to drain the tub. It’s so good to see her take down her defenses. I pat myself on the back for giving her exactly what she needs.

As she’s getting ready, I gather the lotion and pull back the sheets. A minute later, she joins me in the room, wearing a short black silk nightgown. I bought it for her so I know it’s cut low in the back, covering only her ass. It’s enough to kill me.

“Beautiful choice, my love.” I pat the mattress. “Come lie down and I’ll massage your back.”

“You’re spoiling me.” She climbs onto the bed and lies face down.

“I love to treat you well. You deserve it.” I grab a lotion bottle. “I’m using lavender tonight to help you sleep.”

“That sounds great.” She shifts around a few times and seems to be getting agitated.

I sit back on my knees and wait until she’s comfortable. She huffs and pounds her fist into the mattress like she’s smashing bumps out of it.

Sometimes she confuses the fuck out of me.

Whatever she’s doing, I hope it doesn’t ruin everything.

“What’s wrong, beauty? You went from relaxed to fighting with the bed?”

“I can’t get comfortable,” she whines.

“What seems to be the problem?”

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