Page 54 of Love Her

“I was thinking maybe after we could do something.”

“My parents won’t be home until tomorrow evening. They can’t watch the kids.”

Sliding my hand up her thigh, I pull her attention from her plate. Realizing I’m trying, and failing, to ask something she turns to face me.

“I know. I thought we could do something with the kids.”

Eyes wide, she begins to choke. Smacking her on the back, I jump from my seat and rush around the counter to get her a glass of water. When I return, she takes a sip and then a few deep breaths.

“You want to do something with my kids? Connor, don’t you think it’s a little soon for that?”

Shrugging I say, “For me? Not really. Is it for you?”

I watch as she looks off in the distance, taking another sip of water. That thumbnail slips between her teeth again. I’m beginning to see the pattern with that nail. It’s a tell that her mind is working double time. Nervous energy rolls off her in waves.

“I understand.” As much as I try to hide my disappointment, I hear it in my tone.

Looking at me, she offers a small smile and says, “Connor, I’ve never done this before. I was with the same man for ten years. We met when I was a freshman in college. He’s all I knew. All my children know.”

Now I feel like a dick. Of course it’s too soon. Maybe not for us but for her kids. I need her to know how I’m feeling. As much as talking about emotions makes me uncomfortable, it’s necessary in this moment.

“I hadn’t thought of that. Just know that I want this Lis. I want to date, to get to know each other better. I like you. A lot. Clementine and Jacob are part of you, which means I want to get to know them too. Spend time with all three of you. When you’re ready.”

My words must do the trick because I get the full smile that makes me feel ten feet tall. Standing, Lis slips between my knees and drapes her arms around my neck before dropping a soft kiss on my lips.

“Thank you. How about I feel them out a bit first? We’ll see how they react to the idea of me dating.”

“I can work with that.”

After we finish our breakfast, I carry her back to bed and strip her of my shirt. This isn’t about exploring her body or taking my time. I’ve already memorized every glorious curve and each spot that pulls the loudest moans from her. This morning it’s about feasting and drawing out her orgasm fast and without preamble. Lis gives as much as she takes, tugging my hair, arching her back, and moaning loudly as she rides the wave of ecstasy.

Wearing just a robe, she walks me to the door. As I step onto the porch she says, “Don’t forget—”

“I know. The rules. No public displays of affection around the kids. And under no circumstances am I to utter the word darlin’ unless we’re alone.”

“Damn, it gets me every time. So no. Don’t do that. Especially around other people.”

Smirking, I pull her to me, making her shriek.

“Baby, the last thing I want to do is share the way you look right now with others. I better run. I’ll see you in an hour.”

Smacking a quick kiss to her lips, I leave her standing in the doorway, a huge smile on her face matching the one I’m wearing. Life’s pretty damn good. Maybe my luck’s turning around.

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