Page 49 of Power Play

“There’s going to be a next time?”

I feel drunk on the aftermath of his careful and considerate touch. High on howpowerfulI feel. Disoriented from the recognition of learning what it’s like to be with someone who wants to be with you too.

More importantly, I feelalive, awakened from a slumber of sorrow and grief. For the first time in forever, I’m catching glimmers of myself, the me that disappeared far too long ago, and I like what I see.

“That was the preseason, Piper. The season is long, with lots of games. Lots of practices.” Liam grazes his fingers down my cheek, and I sigh under his touch. One time, and I crave him. I’m a plant and he’s the sun, and I’m a maniac for his warmth. He curls his hand around my chin and my palm rests on his arm, drawn to him like a magnet. “You and I are going to have a lot of fun.”

“I’ve always liked having fun, and it feels like I’ve been missing out on so much for so long,” I breathe out, a wild exhale rattling my lungs. “Am I allowed to ask for a kiss before I leave, or is that too… relationship-y? I don’t want to cross a line.”

“Not crossing a line at all.” His eyes light up and he leans forward, mouth inches away from mine. His lips press against mine in something soft and slow. “Text me when you’re home?”

“Worried about my wellbeing? That might go outside the scope of the bedroom, Sullivan.”

“It might, but I’m still going to do it. I told you I’m going to treat you right, and this is lesson number one. You should always send your orgasm provider a text when you get home so they know you’re safe. And maybe a picture of your tits too.”

I laugh, light and free. “I’m taking notes right now.”

“Good. There’s going to be a quiz next week.”

“Is there? Maybe you can bring the glow in the dark condoms and I can bring the glow in the dark lingerie. We can see who lights up the best.”

“That’ll be a fun game.” He drops another kiss to my forehead, and I untangle our limbs. I stand and stretch my arms above my head, a happy sensation settling in my bones. “I’m serious, Piper. Let me know when you’re home.”

Is this what it’s like to be cared for?

If Liam can show me this much affection after only one night together, how is the man of my dreams going to treat me?

Will he show me off in public? Dip me low in front of a crowd of people and kiss me like there’s no tomorrow?

He’s proving to me there are good men out there, and for the first time in a long time, I have hope.

“I will. I promise.” With a salute, I check to make sure I’m not going to flash anyone in the hallway then head to the door. “Good night, Liam.”

Liam doesn’t say anything else as I hurry away, but I can feel his attention follow me long after I’ve slipped into the night.

FIFTEEN

PIPER

Me

What’s your favorite color?

Liam

Haven’t really thought about it. Why?

Me

Curious minds who will be playing your fake girlfriend want to know.

It’s probably something boring like gray.

Liam

I’m going to guess yours is pink.

Me

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