Page 75 of The Rogue

“In Summer Hill?”

I frown, pausing mid-stir.

“Something wrong?”

I spin, locking our eyes. “How do you know where I live?”

There’s a beat before he answers. “Area code.”

“Oh, right.” I blink, turning back to the stove. “I um…think this is good to go.” I shut off the burner and move about the kitchen like I’ve got a house full of guests.

Levi’s the picture of calm as he pours the wine. It’s almost maddening until he grips my waist, spinning me to face him. “I’m sorry.”

My head shakes. “You didn’t do anything. I’m just tired, on edge, I guess.”

“I respect your privacy. I’ve asked my last question. For now, okay?” His tone is so gentle, it’s almost foreign.

I nod. “Okay.”

His easy grin settles me somehow.

He pulls a stool out for me before settling himself on the one beside me.

Throughout dinner, we play the game of accidental knee brushing, touching, leaning, and laughing.

Levi clears our plates and empty wine glasses.

I wait for him at the bottom of the stairs as he locks all the doors and does a final sweep of the floor. He keeps low lights on in nearly every room. Almost the same way I had it the night he left me to go to the Inn.

I don’t like dark places. He’s learned this about me. He’s accepted it without judgment.

He steps in front of me. His voice soft. “Ready?”

I glance up and nod. Feeling uneasy and ashamed. I’ve let my fears, insecurities and trauma affect this whole house. Because of me, he’s been waking earlier. Because of me, he’s changed his nightly routine. Because of me, his son isn’t having the best summer I could give him.

He lifts my chin. “Did I forget something?”

“I’m sorry about the last few days with Jackson. I’m going to take him out tomorrow. And every day. It was selfish of me to keep him home.”

“It wasn’t selfish. It was cautious. It’s a normal reaction.” He steps closer, cupping my face and lifting it to his. “Tessa, I want you to come to me. With anything you need. A night off. A problem with Jackson. A problem with you. If there's something on your mind or if you need anything at all. Just ask.”

I search his eyes. “Anything?”

“Anything.”

“Can I sleep in the den?”

He lowers his hands and steps back. “Baby, we've been over this. You can't live in the den. There's no privacy. There’s no doo—”

His words cut off but I have my answer. It’s a stupid request and I shouldn’t have asked again. I nod and drop my head.

“Alright,” he rasps.

I look up. “Really?”

He nods, but there’s hesitation. Concern.

“I promise, you never have to worry about him walking in on me half naked. Or even naked. I’ll be super careful about that.”

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