Page 12 of Saint

“Or maybe they were going to pair you off like they did with our new friends.”

“I can’t imagine being with anyone other than you, Saint.”

“Me too, honey.”

“Did you know that if you were genetically- and gift-paired with someone and they died, you could actually lose your mind?”

“What?” he frowned.

“I heard Kane telling Ghost that they’d lost some people because of that. That guy Regan has all the records in his head and might be able to help us figure out how we’re all connected. I mean, beyond the fact that I can hear voices in my head when needed.” Saint laughed, kissing the side of her head.

“That could be a good thing, honey. It was a good thing this time.” She yawned, and he smiled at her. “Come on. Let me walk you back to your cottage.”

“Will you stay?” she whispered. “I’ve only been on my own a few weeks, and I get scared at night. I know it’s silly, but if you were there, I don’t think I’d be as scared.”

“Honey, why did you leave Trav and Ashley’s place if you were scared? You know your father would protect you.”

“I know,” she said, nodding. “I just felt like it was time for me to give them back their own space. They’ve done so much for me, Saint, and I love them for that.”

“They’re both incredible people, and they’ve raised an incredibly beautiful daughter.”

“You’re biased, but I’m grateful that you’re biased,” she smiled. “So. Will you stay with me? We don’t have to move our relationship along just yet if you’re uncomfortable with that. I just want you there.”

“Marilisa, you make me uncomfortable because I want to devour you, honey. I want to do things to this body that I know for a fact you’ve never done.”

“Just because I’ve never done them, Saint, doesn’t mean I don’t know about them, understand them, and desire them as well. I’ve read every book Charlie has ever produced. I’ve spent countless hours talking about sex with my therapist mother. And I listen and absorb every bit of information from the more mature women here. I know exactly what I want, how to get it, and how to make sure you walk away happy.”

She stood and started walking toward her cottage. Saint stared at the suddenly confident and mature young woman that only a little while ago seemed childlike to him. This woman was sure of herself and her abilities, skills, and assets. The way she swayed when she walked, then stopping to look over her shoulder at him with a ‘come hither’ look, nearly sent him over the edge.

“You coming, handsome?”

“Fuck.”

CHAPTER NINE

While Marilisa showered, Saint went to his own cottage and grabbed an overnight bag. On the way back, he stopped at the cottage of Trev and Ashley. They were seated on the porch, laughing, holding hands.

“Evening, Saint,” grinned Trevor.

“Sir. Ma’am.”

“Saint, we’ve known you since you were born. You don’t have to say ma’am and sir.”

“Oh, I think I do,” he said nervously. “I just wanted to let you know that I’ll be staying with Marilisa at her cottage.”

“Is that right?” frowned Trevor. Saint swallowed, nodding.

“Yes, sir. I love her, and my only regret is not recognizing it sooner. She’s awfully hard to say no to,” he chuckled. “I won’t say no to her again.”

“You plan to marry her?” asked Trevor.

“Trevor,” smiled Ashley. “Let them get comfortable with one another.”

“No, it’s alright,” said Saint. “My answer is yes. I do plan to marry her when she’s ready.”

“Good,” nodded Trevor. “Saint? The nightmares. They’re awful, son. It’s like I can’t wake her quickly enough. I’ve never heard her say anything about a lab or laboratory, so I’m not sure where that incident came from today. Just know that it will scare the shit out of you.”

Saint nodded, almost scared for her.

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