Page 30 of Forever Mine

“North of Dallas,” I say quietly.

“Do you still have family there?” Gabriel asks.

“Not really, no.”

“Not really?”

“Gabriel, I don’t want to talk about it,” I tell him before pulling out my phone and effectively dismissing him. He doesn’t speak for a few minutes.

“I’m here when you’re ready,querida,” he says softly. “I’m here when you need me.”

I squeeze my eyes closed. Gabriel’s voice suggests he means more than just talking about my childhood. It offers him in every aspect. His attention, respect, and maybe even his love. I feel tears clog my throat as I struggle to respond. “Gabriel …”

“No. You owe me nothing. Just know that I’m here.”

I feel his eyes on me, so I nod.

We’re silent for a few minutes. I rest my head against the window and close my eyes. I don’t realize I’ve fallen asleep until Gabriel gently places his hand on my thigh and shakes my leg. His hand is achingly close to my center, and I feel the heat from his hand coursing throughout my body. God. I’m so fucking turned on by him. It’s never been like this with any man.

“Monica, we’re here,” he says quietly.

“Oh, wow. I’m sorry. I didn’t realize I fell asleep,” I murmur. “I didn’t sleep well last night.” I don’t need to tell Gabriel that Marcus rolled into my apartment after midnight completely drunk and kept waking me up trying to have sex. But he was so drunk he couldn’t fully get it up and would pass out before trying again.

“It’s okay. I’m glad you were able to rest,” Gabriel tells me. I stretch my arms out above and behind my head, not realizing the dress I’m wearing has ridden up dangerously. I hear Gabriel’s sharp intake of breath as he stares at my thighs. “Fucking hell,querida.”

His eyes meet mine, and the intensity I see borders on frightening.

“Get out of the car before I do something I’ll regret,” he whispers.

“What … what would you do?” I ask.

“Monica.”

“I think I need to know, Gabriel.”

“No, you don’t.”

His eyes sear into mine once more before he opens his door and steps out. I see him discreetly adjust himself before walking to the back of the car. The scent of his cologne still permeates the air inside the car, and I take a deep breath, relishing in the fragrance. I need to somehow find out what he uses so I can buy some. It’s quite possibly the most intoxicating cologne I’ve ever smelled. I want to bathe in it.

As I reach my hand to the door handle, I can see my fingers tremble. Gabriel opens the door before I can, and I clench my hands together. He’s completely thrown me off my game. He has both our suitcases and motions for me to walk ahead of him into the hotel. I’m acutely aware of my posture and assume he’s staring at my ass. I look over my shoulder and confirm he is definitely checking me out. His eyes meet mine, and I whip around. I’m embarrassed, and I don’t even know why.

We approach the front desk together.

“Good afternoon. Checking in?” The hotel concierge asks. She’s a perky brunette who gives Gabriel a broad smile, and I find myself weirdly territorial.

“Yes, checking in. Gabriel Campos. Two rooms,” Gabriel tells her. She looks at me with interest, realizing we aren’t staying together.

“Yes, sir,” she replies, her voice suddenly husky. I snort and roll my eyes. This chick isn’t being remotely coy about her interest in Gabriel.

“Not happening,” he whispers in my ear. I look up at him to find him studying me. “Not happening,querida.”

“What?”

“Whatever is going on inside that head of yours. I’m not like that,” Gabriel tells me.

“Sir?” the concierge asks. “We only seem to have one reservation for you.”

Gabriel’s head whips toward hers.

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