Page 52 of When You Give a Lawyer a Kiss

“I’d really like to visit the shop,” I say.

“Great, it’s settled then. We’ll make a day of it.” He gets up to toss his wrapper in the trash and heads toward the door.

“Dawson, wait,” I call out.

He turns around to face me. “Yeah?”

“I work at the club tonight, and I can’t afford to miss a shift,” I explain.

He scratches the light stubble on his jaw as he studies me, his expression contemplative. “Would it help if I told you I’m giving you a bonus? Enough that you shouldn’t have to work at the club anymore.”

I’m out of my chair in record time. “No way. I’m not accepting special treatment.” My voice betrays my anxiety as I nibble on my lower lip.

This is exactly what I wanted to prevent. If word got out, it could raise suspicions with HR and my coworkers, especially since I’ve only been there a short time, and it’s unusual for new hires to receive bonuses.

He strides over to me, drawing me in for a hug. “Don’t worry, Red. I’m giving one to each of the paralegals. You’ve all been working so hard, and it should be recognized.”

I blink up at him, stunned. “That’s very generous of you, but I haven’t earned it. Everyone else should get it, but I’d rather it only goes to those who deserve it.”

Dawson tilts my chin, pressing a kiss to my forehead. “Please let me take care of this… of you.” he implores.

I swallow hard. “I’m not sure I can accept it.”

“You’re just as deserving as anyone else,” he states.

I close my eyes, allowing myself to relax in his arms.

For so long, it’s been me against the world. I’ve let my pride get in the way of asking for help. It’s led me to place unrealistic expectations on myself, believing I had to be everything for everyone I love.

Since Dawson came into my life, he’s upended my old way of thinking. He’s shown me that leaning on someone doesn’t make me weak—it means I’m strong enough to accept help when I need it most.

“Just this once, angel,” Dawson says softly when I don’t answer. “Please.”

I open my eyes and am met with his warm, reassuring gaze.

“Okay… but only because you asked so nicely,” I breathe.

I’ll have to call David, my manager at the club, and let him know I won’t be coming in tonight—or ever again.

There’s no guarantee that it’s the right decision, but I owe it to myself to take the risk. The extra time will allow me to study more and bring me one step closer to achieving my goal of becoming a lawyer.

We arrive at the shop, and the familiar scent of ink and antiseptic fills the air.

Mickey is ringing up a customer and they wave goodbye as they exit. “Hey, boss, how’s it going?” He glances at his watch. “You’re here early today.”

“Seren’s coming in.”

Seren is Christian’s mom, and today we’re finishing up the shading on her forearm sleeve. She’s a nurse, so I’ve had to find time to get this done that works around her schedule.

Mickey nods knowingly, and a smile lights up his face when he notices Reese. “Who’s this lovely lady?”

She offers him her hand. “I’m Reese. It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

“Likewise. I’m Mickey.”

He gives me a sideways glance as he introduces himself. I don’t share much about my personal life, and aside from Martha and Seren, I’ve never brought a woman to the shop.

“Come on, Red.” I nod toward my workstation. “I’ve got to start prep.”

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