Page 76 of The Assignment: Room 3

“This was supposed to be easy. No attachments.”

“Be honest, it’s been more than that for a while now. With all those long talks over lunches, I thought we were getting to know each other, but you’ve been hiding who you are. Why are you so afraid of me?” I can’t look at him. I’m not even sureIknow the emotions running through my mind.

“I’ve been hurt too many times, Flex. Being with you at the club, I can compartmentalize that. I can explain away our lunch dates. Here… seeing you in my home… you’re too good to be a part of my real life.”

“What? What’s wrong with your ‘real’ life?”

“You’re used to opulence, expensive living, and no kids dictating your schedule. Why do you think I only come to the club once a week? Because the other six nights, I’m doing bathtime, watching cartoons, and reading bedtime stories. Gracie is… everything.”

His expression sobers, and I’m waiting for him to make his excuses and leave, but he catches me off guard as he leans in, pressing the softest kiss to my lips. “I have an expensive house, but it’s not a home. I can do what I want when I want because I don’t have the love of a family in my life. Money means nothing without the things that truly matter. I understand you don’t want to get hurt, but Ipromiseyou, pet, I’m here, and I want as much or as little involvement with you as you feel comfortable granting.”

“Why?” He cuts me off with a kiss.

“I like you, Celest. I want a contract. Friends with benefits isn’t good enough for me. I want more. I’ve already told you that.”

My pulse is whooshing in my ears. He’s messing with me. He has to be. “It was your idea, Flex. This is getting complicated, and you don’t know what you’re asking of me.”

“Give me a chance as more than friends. That’s all I’m asking. Then, if that works out, you can decide if you want a contract.”

“What about at the club?” Am I really considering this?

“Right now, the agreement stands until we sign a contract. All the sex and punishment you desire.”

“And what about interactions with other people?” Not that I have people banging at my door.

His jaw tightens. “Rules are the same. If I’m at the club, you’re mine.”

“And you? If I’m at the club, are you mine?” A wicked grin spreads across his flawless face.

“What do you want, pet?”

“I don’t want you with someone else if I’m around.”

“Then I’ll be yours and only yours when you’re at Venom.”

“And you’re really okay if I’m with someone else if you’re not at Venom?”

“I didn’t say I wouldn’t eat and sleep at the club to ensure no one gets the chance.”

He drapes an arm around my shoulder, pulling me to his side as he presses his lips to the top of my head.

“Flex…”

“Yes, pet.”

“Don’t hurt me.”

“Only in the ways you enjoy.”

It’s the last we speak of it for the day. Flex insists on paying, taking pity on me, I’m sure. My mom continues to embarrass the hell out of me, but he finds it amusing. Seeing him interact with Gracie is such a departure from the man I know. He’s goofy, willing to do anything to make her laugh. I think they have the same emotional maturity. I don’t remember the last time I laughed so hard. It’s a breath of fresh air, but in the pit of my stomach, I know I need to stay guarded. Letting myself get too attached to Flex will only end in heartbreak.

When we’re done, Gracie’s little face is covered in cinnamon sugar, and she’s ready to crash out. I’m about to lift her into my arms when Flex steps in. “Let me. It’s a fair walk back to your house.” He turns his attention to Gracie. “Hey, Gracie bear, is it okay if I carry you? I’m cold, and I reckon your cuddles are warm and cozy.”

She holds her arms open to him, letting him scoop her up as if she weighs nothing. The way he cradles her is so sweet. It’s like he’s known her since the day she was born. We chat on the walk home,and I feel a genuine friendship blossoming between us. I like it, but I know it’s going to hurt when it ends. And itwillend.

Chapter 15

FLEX

---