Page 13 of Painting Him Mine

“I’d promise I’ll behave, but I don’t want to lie to you.” We both laughed. “In case it isn’t obvious, I’m an open book without a filter. I’m incapable of lying because my poker face is nonexistent.”

“That’s a good thing.” He squeezed me tight in a one-armed hug. “Honesty, trust, and communication are some of the most important parts of being in a healthy relationship.”

I grinned at his words. “Then I’m definitely the best husband for you. I’m honest to a fault, I’d rather die than break your trust, and I’ll never shut up unless I’m sucking your dick.”

He rested his forehead against my shoulder as he laughed hard. “You’re right. You are absolutely perfect for me in every single possible way. I don’t know how I got so lucky.”

“Fate mustreallylove your cakes in particular.” The thought made my stomach rumble, causing both of us to crack up again. “I can’t wait to find out why she’s your biggest fan once I have the energy to move.”

“I promise I’ll get you cleaned up and fed as soon as I’m capable of being a person and not a satisfied puddle who is more mush than man.”

His choice of phrase made me grin. “I’msogoing to enjoy being spoiled by you for the rest of my life.” The prospect made me downright giddy as I guided him closer for a soft kiss. It was so refreshing that I didn’t have to tamp down my reactions so I didn’t overwhelm my partner. Mauricio accepted me as I was, and how could I ever ask for anything more than that? Especially when he had brought cake for us to enjoy as soon as we had the energy to move.

Chapter Seventeen

MAURICIO

Ezra insistedon taking photos of my cake from every angle before he’d allow me to cut it. My ego purred over his effusive praise for my skills in making Korean buttercream flowers that looked real. He was also extra adorable in his pajama pants with red and pink graffiti grunge ink hearts.

“It feels like you brought me the most beautiful bouquet in the world that’s somehow edible.” He snapped a few more shots with his phone. “The artist in me thinks it’s too pretty to eat and wants to watch you make these incredible flower petals. But my sweet tooth is ready to dig in and see if they’re as delicious as they are gorgeous.”

“There’s only one way to find out.” I held the knife over the cake to cut it.

“Okay, one more.” He took a final picture before he gestured for me to continue.

“How big of a piece do you want?” I cut into the spongy cake before moving to make a second cut. When he said nothing, I prompted him. “More?”

He nodded enthusiastically. “Yes, please!”

I cut his large slice and laid it out on one of his blue-glazed plates. While I could bake more elaborate cakes, it was a simple three-layer vanilla cake with buttercream frosting. Since he had mentioned eating the vanilla cake pop at the café the day before, it seemed like a safe bet without knowing his other preferences or allergies.

Ezraoohedandaahedover the layers, taking more pictures of the inside and the slice on his plate. I cut a piece for myself before putting the rest in the fridge for later. We carried our plates over to his kitchen table and made ourselves comfortable.

He wiggled in his chair with excitement, like a little kid at their birthday party. I waited for him to take his first bite to see if he liked it. His reaction didn’t disappoint when he closed his eyes to savor the flavor with a moan. “Oh my god,Mauricio.”

I was incapable of physical arousal after our previous rounds of fun, but I still responded to the sensual way he moaned my name. It was satisfying to watch him have a semi-religious experience from eating my dessert. “I’m guessing you approve?”

He sucked on his fork after taking another bite with a moan. Clearly, any future cakes I baked for him would have to be enjoyed in private. I would have pounced on him if I wasn’t down for the count.

“If you hadn’t worn me out earlier, I’d be coming in my pajamas from how incredible this tastes.Wow. Do you have any idea howmuch it’s blowing my mind that you created an edible orgasm in dessert form?”

His choice of phrase made me laugh. “I’m glad it meets with your approval.”

He cut off one of the pink roses and heaved a contented sigh. “This is officially the best cake I’ve ever eaten in my entire damn life. You are an absolute master. No wonder fate loves you and your impossibly delicious cakes.”

“I’m sure you’re exaggerating.”

He shook his head. “I may be prone to hyperbole, but I’m one hundred percent serious right now. I’ll prove it to you tomorrow.”

I waited to respond until I had enjoyed my cake. It pleased me that the sponge had turned out so light and moist. “How are you planning on doing that?”

“You’ll see.” His impish grin was quite alluring. “I can promise you’ll enjoy it.”

While I burned with curiosity, I told myself to be patient. “I’m looking forward to whatever you have planned.”

Chapter Eighteen

EZRA

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