Page 77 of In the Dust

At ten, when my kitten Oreo got stuck in a tree, he didn’t let me call my dad to get the fire department—dramatic, I know, but I thought that was the only thing firemen did at that age. He climbed it himself, getting Oreo back down to safety.

But at twenty-one, he’s gripping my hand and gritting his teeth as the flight attendants give their safety speech about oxygen and life vests when the plane begins to move.

“It’s going to be okay,” I hum, holding his hand.

The flight attendants leave the aisle to buckle in for take-off just as the plane begins to taxi down the runway. There are two planes in front of us and one is taking off from the strip. I already know he’s going to hold his breath as we ascend into the air. I find it thrilling because of the speed the plane must reach before it can leave the ground.

His worries take my mind off what’s going on back at home. I’ve already vowed to myself this weekend that I would make this trip all about the positives. So, I hold his hand and send him the warmest smile I can manage. It isn't hard, though. Just the thought of him makes me grin from ear to ear.

Once we’re leveled out, he lets out a long breath. “I need a drink.”

I shake my head. “Is this why you picked a late flight?” I peek out of the window, watching the night sky blanket everything. “So you wouldn't see us flying over stuff?”

When a stewardess passes, he politely raises his hand. “That’s exactly why.” He smiles nervously. “And you better not tell anyone about this.”

I laugh, zipping my lips shut. “Your secret is safe with me.”

* * *

It was aroundten when we finally reached the hotel. Colton’s eyes were wide in the back of the taxi as he took in the dazzling city for the first time. I can’t deny the intrigue that New York brings.

On the way up in the elevator, all I want to do is order some food and pass out.

But I think Colton has different plans because I can barely speak as we walk into the room.

On the king-sized bed, ruby-red petals are scattered all around the comforter. Right in the center though, the petals have been meticulously placed in the shape of a heart. I pick one up, admiring the silky texture between my fingertips. It feels like freshly shaved legs between clean sheets. Which reminds me that mine are not, so I need to take a quick shower.

There’s a jacuzzi across from the bed with even more petals floating atop the water. A bottle of champagne is chilling on ice. Beside it are two flutes and a handful of chocolate covered strawberries with a white drizzle.

I breathe in, smelling notes of rose and sage. “What is all this?”

“I wanted to do something romantic for you.” His hands curl around my hips, bringing me closer to him.

My chest begins to tighten. “I haven’t gotten any flowers since …”

“Since what, Dix?” He crooks his finger, dipping it under my chin and forcing me to meet his gaze. “Since me?”

His gaze feels like it’s burning straight through me, and I’m suddenly embarrassed. All I can do is close my eyes and nod.

“Every girl deserves flowers.” His warm lips cover mine, and I slowly open my mouth, granting him access. I let out a small moan as he slides his hands down my back and gently squeezes my ass.

I pull away to catch my breath.

“Who did all this?” I look around the room.

“Gina.”

Of course she did. I need to text her. She might be busy with Andre, though, seeing how she didn’t answer my call after we landed.

“I love it, Colton. It’s beautiful.” I try to pull away, but his grip only tightens on me.

“Where do you think you’re going?”

“I need to wash the airport off of me.”

He finally releases me. “Okay, I’ll order something to eat.”

I place my lips on his cheek. “You’re the best.”

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