Page 87 of The Perfect Love

She scrunches up her face. “You weren’t damaged the way I was.”

Fuck that.“Damaged? How about we pick a new word? I don’t like that one. There’s nothing damaged or broken about you.”

She shakes her head. “You didn’t see me at my worst.”

“If I had, all I would’ve seen was your strength. The ability to keep going through the darkness, even when you have no idea when it will end is strength.”

“Even when you feel like all you’re doing is floating?”

I brush my thumb over her cheek. “Floating’s better than drowning.”

She stares at me for a moment, then shakes her head. “Okay,thatis why I’m shocked you haven’t been with anyone in thatlong. You’re not just hot, you’re kind. And sure, some girls like dickhead guys, but most of us want one who gives a shit.”

I wrap my arms around her and pull her close. “MaybeI’vebeen looking for someone who gives a shit. After everything I went through, meaningless hookups were the last thing I wanted. I wanted something more.”

“That makes sense. I’m sorry for assuming.”

“Don’t be. I’d rather you ask than sit around and wonder. I can’t read your mind, but I’ll answer any question you ask me.”

“Back at you.”

I hold her tighter, playing with her. To my surprise and stupid delight, she reaches up and does the same, resting her hand in my curls.

After a few minutes, she whispers. “I like this.”

“Me too. Just promise you won’t run away in the morning if you feel anything poking you. My morning wood thinks you’re hot as fuck, and he has no chill.”

She bites her lip as she laughs. “Then I’ll smother him with a pillow.”

“Fair enough.”

She rests her head on my chest and the comforting feeling of home washes over me. I’m not sure I’ve ever been this happy before. Not in this way. There’s a feeling of total peace when I hold her like this. And my heart goes wild feeling like I finally have something I’ve wanted for so long. There’s no doubt I’m falling hard for her, so I hold her tighter, savoring every second, and hoping that we’re headed for something deeper because I already know I’ll be crushed if I lose her.

12

Wild and Free

Chelsea

“I can’t believe youdidn’t tell me,” I huff.

“Didn’t we already have this conversation an hour ago?” Trevor asks, folding his arms over his chest in amusement. Which just pisses me off.

His birthday is in six days, and he didn’t tell me until an hour ago. Actually, he didn’t tell me anything until after Amanda started asking me questions about whether I was planning to do a party for his birthday. When she realized I didn’t know, she grumbled something under her breath and immediately sent a strongly worded text to Trevor.

He was apologetic when we met up after my night class, but I don’t think he fully understands why I’m upset.

“Yes, but I’m still annoyed. Now I’m rushing to plan a special date and get you a present.”

“I told you I don’t care about those things.”

“Well, I do,” I snap.

His eyebrows shoot up, and I take his hand, leading him from the kitchen.

Since our sweet shower moment a week ago and then him staying the night, we’ve been spending more time together. He’s spent the night a couple more times—still fully clothed—and we showered together both mornings after that. It’s helped me grow even more comfortable with him.

Comfortable enough to yell at him right now.

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