Page 109 of Between Hate and Desire

Chuckling, I bite my lip. “Gonna be snug, huh?”

As if he could be any sexier, he puts his arms behind his head and stretches out. “Yeah, I don’t know where you’re gonna sleep.”

“Ha-ha, funny. I warned you.”

“Yeah, but wepracticedin a big bed, and now I’m realizing how ridiculous this is gonna be.”

I stop at the edge of the bed and frown. “I’m sorry. I know this isn’t ideal.”

“Lennon.” His face drops as he pulls back the covers. “Get in.”

My feet stay frozen to the floor, unable to move as I take in Hunter’s large frame and notice he’s only in his boxer briefs. It’s hot as hell up here, and my parents never turn the central air below seventy degrees. It’s why I’m only wearing a pair of mesh shorts and a tank top.

Swallowing, I nod and finally snap out of it.

I willnotstare at him.

Hell, who am I kidding? I’m gawking so hard I’m surprised my eyes haven’t popped out by now. I turn off the light and suck in a breath.

I can do this.

We’re snuggling because we have to. If we don’t, one of us will literally fall off the bed. Hunter’s huge, which means he can’t help but take over two-thirds of the small mattress.

Climbing in, I pull the sheet over us and melt into his body. He brings one arm down and wraps it around me, holding me closer. I rest my hand on his chest, and we try to fall asleep glued together.

“Hunter,” I whisper after a while. His heartbeat has been steady and his breaths even, so I’m shocked when he answers.

“Yes?”

Look up at him, I smile when he gazes at me. “Thank you again for today. I’m pretty sure my parents fell in love with you.”

He tenses. “It’s obvious they want the best for you, so I’m happy to play the part.”

I blink, the moon giving just enough light for me to see his face. Hunter’s features are relaxed, which sends warmth down my body. Being this close should feel uncomfortable and awkward, but it makes that lonely feeling evaporate, even if only temporarily.

“Are you comfortable?” I ask, realizing he’s shifted over to give me room.

“I’m fine.”

Sitting up, I look at my side and compare it to his. “If we spoon, we’ll both have more space.”

Hunter’s throat moves as he swallows hard. “Sure, whatever you want.”

I roll my eyes, knowing he’s trying hard to keep boundaries between us. I understand the guilt he feels, but we need to set that aside while we’re here.

“It’s just me and you, Hunter. Remember? No history or past,” I remind him, repeating my words from the night before. The guilt feels heavy on my chest, but it’s the only way we’re going to get through this without it consuming us. He says I’ll always be Brandon’s girlfriend, and even if that’s how he sees me, it’s no longer the reality.

I don’t wait for him to respond before turning on my other side. A moment passes before he finally shifts his weight, and his body curls around mine. Wiggling closer to him, I grab his hand and wrap it around my belly. Our legs mold together, and we both finally have enough room to breathe.

“You okay?” I ask after a few minutes.

“I’m regretting not bringing that cup with me,” he teases.

“Hey! I can’t even kick you in this position.” I laugh.

Then I hear him growl. Against my ear.

Holy hell. It sends shivers down my spine as I wait for his response.

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