Page 64 of Unleashed

“Is your boss treating you well?” my father asked, his eyes twinkling with a mix of curiosity and approval.

“Yes, much better,” I said, glancing at Michael. “I’m learning a lot more than I did at Abbott.”

“I’m pleased to hear that,” my father said with a nod. “It was a shame they didn’t promote you. I’m sure Mr. Elliott appreciates having you on his team.”

“I do, sir,” Michael said, his tone sincere. “I’m glad to have her aboard.”

My father’s eyes glinted with a knowing look. “Take care of your employees, and they’ll take care of you, I always say.”

“I completely agree,” Michael replied, meeting my father’s gaze with a reassuring smile.

We spentover three hours with my parents, sharing lunch in the Shady Grove cafeteria. The food was surprisingly decent, and I appreciated the option they had to prepare their own meals in their small kitchen. After we finished eating, it was clear that both of them were flagging. My father’s eyelids drooped several times, and my mother looked as though she might follow suit any minute.

“We’re going to let you two take a nap,” I said gently.

“We’re fine,” my mother insisted, though her yawn belied her words.

“You’re tired,” I pointed out. “What time did you get up this morning?”

“The usual, five o’clock,” she replied.

“That was almost eleven hours ago,” I said, noting the fatigue etched on their faces.

My mother yawned again, and we all shared a knowing laugh. “I think it’s time for a nap, Samuel,” she said, nudging my father.

“I have to agree,” he admitted, already sinking into the couch.

We walked them back to their small apartment on the second floor. I was relieved to see the elevator; the thought of my father struggling with stairs was too much to bear. Michael took my mother’s arm, offering his bicep for support, while I helped my father.

Their apartment was a cozy haven, decorated in soothing shades of brown and tan. It featured a compact living area thatflowed into a small kitchen and a modest bedroom with a private bath. The setup was ideal for their needs, with plenty of activities available within the facility to keep them engaged.

My father stretched out on the nubby, chocolate-colored couch, while my mother settled into a matching recliner. I hugged them both tightly before we left. Michael extended his hand to shake theirs, but by then, they were already fast asleep. We left quietly, closing the door behind us with care.

“That was a nice visit,” I said as we walked down the carpeted hallway. Michael’s hand rested firmly on my upper back, his thumb gently stroking my skin.

“Yes, it was,” he agreed, his voice soft.

He guided me to his car, opening the door for me and assisting me inside before circling around to his own side. Once settled, he leaned across the console, his hand sliding around my neck. He pulled me gently toward him and pressed his lips against mine. The kiss was unexpected and electrifying, sending a rush of warmth through me.

“What was that for?” I asked, breathless.

“Because I’ve wanted to do that all day,” he said, his voice tinged with a mixture of apology and desire. “Please excuse me for being so forward.”

“Can you do it again?” I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.

Michael’s lips curved into a smirk. “I can.”

His eyes locked onto mine as he leaned in again, his hands framing my face. He pressed his lips against mine, holding the kiss just a moment longer this time. I felt him gently lick the seam of my mouth with his tongue. I opened and he slipped the tip of his tongue inside, exploring mine. The kiss deepened, his tongue moving with a languid, sensual rhythm that made my core tighten with longing.

When he finally pulled away, I felt a mix of frustration and desire. My panties were already damp, and I yearned for more. But this was too soon. I pushed him gently away, breaking the kiss.

“Too much?” he asked, his expression a mix of confusion and concern.

“A little,” I admitted, “but I liked it.”

Michael started the car, putting the top up to shield us from the fierce midday sun. As he pulled out of the lot and onto the highway, my phone buzzed in my purse. I fished it out and saw a text from Slade. I hesitated, then slipped my phone back into my bag.

“I won’t consider it rude if you answer that text,” Michael said, glancing at me.

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