Page 92 of And Then Came You

At my behest, she sent me an advanced copy of her upcoming book, the infamous friends to lovers tale. She doesn’t think I read it, but I did. Three times, cover to cover, and all I can say is my girl can spin some seriously sexy scenes.

I can’t wait to try out every single one of them with her.

The video call connects, a smile breaking across my face the moment I see her. Lexi literally brings the light into my dark world. It’s time for me to return the favor.

Her bruises have faded and the cuts near healed, but there’s a sadness in my Lex Lex now. The internal scars take far longer to mend, and I see it in her eyes—a forlorn hopelessness that this is as good as it gets.

At least for her.

I’m determined to prove her wrong. She needs to know that I’m here, and I’m not screwing up any more chances.

This time is for keeps.

“Hey handsome, how’s Switzerland?”

“Too many miles away from you.” I love making her blush, even if she hasn’t figured out yet that my affections are aimed solely in her direction. “I finished your book.”

“Dare I ask?”

“It’s a beautiful story. You’re so talented.”

“Thank you. I appreciate you reading it.”

“I told you I would. I enjoyed the hell out of it, even though you surprised me. You pen some hot as hell sex scenes.”

The pink in her cheeks intensifies, a small giggle rising from her chest. “What did you expect? It’s a steamy romance.”

“That it is. Do women like those real romantic gestures? The over the top ones?” Yes, I’m digging, but I need to know what Lexi wants in a man. So far, I’ve done everything wrong. This time, my execution will be perfect. “More importantly, doyoulike them?”

“Sam, you know the men I’ve dated. I’m a bit of a virgin when it comes to over-the-top romantic gestures. I just make it up as I go along. Hopefully, I hit the mark once in a while.”

My soul aches at her words. Lexi exudes love and warmth, but not because she’s receiving it from an outside source. She manifests that amazing energy all on her own, powered by the strength of her heart. But for the first thirty-seven years of her life, her needs were neglected, or worse, abused.

Still, she never ran out of love. A fact which blows my mind.

“On to more important topics. Are you and the bikini models making use of the sauna?” She maintains a lilting tone, but I hear the undercurrent of uncertainty.

I hate that she thinks I’m banging other women, even if I’ve earned that reputation time and again where Lexi is concerned. “You’re the only woman.”

“You’re not sleeping with me.”

A fact I plan on changing ASAP.

“I’m not sleeping with them. I actually have slept with you.”

Her blush, it’s going to be the death of me. “One night stand.”

“Not if I can help it. I’ll be back in New York tomorrow. You up for some company?”

Lexi smiles, nodding. “Sure. I’m not a hundred percent yet, but thanks to your doctor, I’m much improved. Who knew they could infuse IV antibiotics in a hotel?”

“We’ll take it easy. I land in the early afternoon and I’ll head right out.”

“Okay.”

“Can you sound a bit more excited? I’m champing at the bit to see you.”

Lexi leans forward, her slight fingers tracing the screen. “I am excited. Promise.”

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