Page 81 of Quake

I step out of the room to view it all put together. It’s perfect, just like her.

It’ll look even better once she hangs some of her artwork on the walls, but it should have everything she needs, and the huge window should provide the perfect amount of lighting.

My phone vibrates in my pocket.

Kira

She’s on her way home. Should be about 25 mins.

Just finished, thanks.

I snap a picture and send it to Kira before gathering all the boxes and trash, hauling that down to the dumpster. I grab Pickles from my apartment and take her on a walk, waiting for Lark’s arrival.

Ma Petite Rouge

I’ll be home in ten. Wanna come over for dinner? I’m thinking tacos.

I’d love to. See you soon.

Chapter forty-seven

Lark

Istep into my apartment, with Tiny trotting behind me.

He sticks his nose in the air, sniffing around. Something feels different, but I’m not sure what it is.

Gianni

Tacos ordered for delivery. I’ll be up in twenty so you can shower.

Gianni

Unless you need help with that, of course.

I roll my eyes at that. He’s certainly gotten more outspoken since we first met.

“Alright, Rex, let’s go on a walk beforeGianni gets here.”

***

Gianni’s fingers tangle in my damp strands, drawing my mouth to his. His tongue swipes into my mouth, and a zing of pleasure shoots to my center. A moan slips past my lips.

There’s a loud knock at the door.

He chuckles, pulling back from me. “Must be the tacos,” he says, heading to answer the door.

When he returns, he’s got a huge paper bag in his arms, but he makes no effort to bring them to the couch. “Can I show you something before we eat?”

My brows pinch, but I stand. “Sure, what is it?”

He takes my hand in his, the bag of food still in one arm. “Close your eyes, and let me guide you.”

My suspicion is building, but I have no idea what he could be up to.

I do as he asks and let him guide me across the hard floor. The soft click of a door opening is the only sound until he says, “Open your eyes, little red.”

My lids jolt open at the command, and shock steals the breath from my lungs.

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