Page 101 of Holiday Hire

"Me too," I agree, and sink farther into him.

"I had a lot of fun tonight. Thanks for letting me take you out."

My heart soars. I confess, "I had the best night ever."

"You did?"

"Yep!"

He kisses my shoulder. It's tender from his teeth, but it's a sweet ache. He says, "Good. Me too."

His statement makes me happy.

Silence fills the air for a few moments.

He sleepily asks, "What do you plan on doing with your winnings?"

Guilt hits me again. "I'm going to give you the cash back."

He grunts. "Like hell you are. A bet is a bet. Besides, I'm not a man who can't handle losing, even if I prefer to win."

"It doesn't seem right."

"I'm telling you there's no way I'm keeping your money. Now, what do you want to do with it?"

I ponder his question, but nothing comes to mind. I admit, "I have zero clue."

"Try to do something fun with it. Don't do something responsible."

"Why not?"

He slides his thumb on my shoulder, declaring, "Gambling winnings are for fun. If you use them to pay your bills, you shouldn't be risking your money. That's how you know you have a problem."

"Well, it wasn't my money," I point out.

"True, but it's still winnings. Do something fun with it. Be young and carefree. Tell me when you decide what you're spending it on," he orders.

I laugh. "Okay. I'll let you know."

"Good." He kisses my cheek and then relaxes his head on the pillow. "Sleep well, baby girl."

"Night," I reply, feeling safe, content, and borderline giddy with joy. I close my eyes and fall asleep within seconds, melting into Alexander's arms.

17

Alexander

Phoebe's floral scent flares in my nose. I open my eyes and blink a few times, inhaling deeper. I'm still spooning her, and she's curled into me, peacefully sleeping, her magenta hair all over the place.

Last night was real.

Weak morning light seeps through the darkness. The rooster crows, signaling it's time to wake up, but I'm always awake at this time of the morning. I can never sleep in and normally love getting up to start my day, but not today.

I would stay in bed all day with Phoebe if I could. But there are things to do, and if I don't go soon, my brothers will barge through my front door, wondering why I'm not outside.

I glance at her, debating whether to wake her up or let her sleep.

I'm hungry.

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