Page 112 of Someone to Watch Over Me

“Thus the termlovemaking.”

“Are you mocking me by any chance?”

“Would I do that?”

“Yes, I believe you would.”

She loses it laughing. “Maybe I would.”

“And here I was about to tell you how much I love you. But forget it.”

“Please feel free to proceed.”

“No, I’m mad at you.”

She laughs some more, and the surge of love and tenderness and ever-present desire makes me light-headed—in a good way.

As I start to move in her again, I don’t care that she’s making fun of me or having such a good time doing it. I love her, I’m drunk on her, and I want this—I want her—for the rest of my life.

Lexi

Tomand I spend the entire day in bed, coming up for air, food and water before going back for more. I worry about him overexerting himself, but he says he feels great, and I decide to trust him. For the first time in years, I have nothing to worry about, no burdens to carry, no fears for the future. I’m free to fully wallow in the exceptional present and in my love for him.

I used to fear that I’d never have the kind of sexual connection I shared with Jim. That, too, has been resolved decisively after being with Tom.

I’m fully aware of how lucky I am to have found that twice in a lifetime, and I’ll never take it—or him—for granted.

He’s napping after we make love for a third time—and yes, I’m still laughing at what he said about that term. I grab my phone from the bedside table and compose a text to my widows, wanting to tell them about the enormous thing Joy has done for me.

Their responses come flooding in.

Iris:Joy… OMG. I’m in tears of joy for Lexi and for all of us to have a friend like you.

Derek:I’m so relieved for you, Lexi. Way to go, Joy. You’re the best. What a thing to do for someone. So much love for both of you.

Roni:What Derek said. I’m mopping up tears at my desk! Joy… My goodness… You’re a rock star.

Brielle:I’ve never had friends like you people. Joy, you are an exceptional human being. Lexi, I’m so, so happy for you. I hope you will fully enjoy every minute of your freedom from such a crushing worry.

Kinsley:I picture Jim smiling in heaven because Lexi has such an incredible friend who would do something like this for her. Well done, Joy!

Wynter:This is awesome! Adrian and I are thrilled for you, Lexi. And, Joy… There are no words. You’re the best of the best. Love you all so much.

Over the next few hours, Naomi, Christy, Hallie and Gage weigh in with elation for me and praise for Joy, who says, I’m just coming out of court, and y’all have me in tears. This was the greatest thrill of my entire career. I’m so, so happy for Lexi (and for Tom Terrific… I hope he’s benefiting from Lexi’s newfound freedom from worry).

My reply is two words that set off a furor:He is.

Again, the replies explode my phone.

Roni:GO, GIRL!

Iris:YESSSSSS

Gage:Go easy on the guy. He just had a heart attack. LOL *just kidding—I’m sure he’s doing JUST fine*

Christy:GET YOUR GROOVE ON!

Derek:Unsubscribe.

---