Page 24 of Don't Look Back

It takes me almost fifteen minutes before I'm pulling into her driveway and cutting the engine. I sit in the truck, trying to muster up the strength to get out of the warmth and face the bitter cold air again.

The curtain peels back on the front window and Leslie peers out. As soon as she sees my truck, she disappears again, then the front door swings open. That’s all the invitation I need to leap out of my seat and rush up the front steps.

“It’s freezing out here,” she mumbles as she rubs her hands up and down her biceps.

“So fucking cold. I’ve been dying for a warm bed since I left. The coffee helped keep me a tiny bit warmer though. Thank you for that.” I hold out her coffee cup and she smiles.

“I’m glad I could help.” She quickly places it on the counter next to the sink, then takes my hand and leads me down the hallway, straight towards where her room is.

My brows draw together, but I don’t say anything. I’m shocked she’s not plopping on the couch, but I'mnot going to complain. I’d love to lay down on a nice comfortable bed.

“Are you ok laying in my bed?” Leslie’s gaze is locked on her feet, avoiding me completely. “I figured it’s more comfortable than the couch.” She tucks a lock of hair behind her ear and peeks up at me through her lashes.

“I guess that depends on if I'm going to be alone in bed?” I arch a brow and take a step closer to her.

“Well, it is my bed. It’s only right if you share it with me.”

“Are you going to touch me inappropriately while I'm sleeping?”

“No!” She rolls her eyes and swats at my chest.

“Well, then I'm going home. I thought you were going to get frisky with me.” I take a step away from her and her face falls.

Holy shit, she’s adorable.

“I’m kidding, sweetheart.” Lifting her hand to my lips, I press a soft kiss on her knuckles. “What side do you like to sleep on?”

“I couldn’t care less.” She lifts her shoulder in a shrug.

“Good. I like to sleep next to the door. It’s easier to protect you if I'm between you and any possible danger.” I wink as I take off my belt and lay my gun on thenightstand. I'm definitely not sleeping with that on my hip.

I glance up to find Leslie looking a shade or two paler than she was a few seconds ago. I close the distance between us and tug her into my arms.

“Hey, are you ok? You look like you just saw a ghost.”

“No, I'm fine. I'm just tired. Would you mind…” She trails off as her cheeks gain some color and turn pink with embarrassment.

“Would I mind what?”

“Holding me while we sleep?” She whispers softly.

“Sweetheart, I’d love nothing more than to hold you. Do you by chance have a pair of sweats I could wear instead of jeans?” I glance down at the stiff denim and frown.

“I don’t, but you can sleep in your boxers if you don’t mind.”

“Miss Jameson,” I tease with a wide smirk. “If I didn’t know any better, I’d think you were trying to trick me into getting naked.”

“Oh my gosh, Colton!” She buries her face in her hands and shakes her head. “Sometimes I can't handle you.”

“That’s ok, I'm a proat handling me.”

As soon as my jeans are in a pile on the floor, I drag the t-shirt Leslie lent me over my head and toss it on top of my jeans.

Her gaze rakes up and down my body, taking in every inch of me. I smirk, waiting for her gaze to meet mine again. When it does, her cheeks turn as red as a tomato.

“Hey, I'm not upset. I’ve been checking you out all night. These little shorts are doing wonders for me.” I motion to the black fabric that barely covers her ass. “Now, get that cute ass in bed with me.”

I slip under the covers and hold the blanket up for Leslie to join me. As soon as she’s snuggled into my side, I press a soft kiss to her temple and rest her hand on my stomach. I want her touching me as much as possible. I know that will help me sleep and having her head on my chest is going to help her sleep.

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