Page 40 of When We Break

“Well, I’m an adult, and this is how it’s going to be for now. If he leaves New York and heads this way, we’ll hire the men.”

“Fine. Are you going to see more of this Blackwell?”

“I’ll say that’s none of your business because that’s what you said tomeabout Bee, and that still makes me mad.”

“It’s not the same thing.”

I laugh, and I can almost hear Connor gnashing his teeth together.

“Oh, Brother, it’s exactly the same thing. I’m not in any danger with Beckett.”

“I’m running a background check.”

“Fine. Do that. In the meantime, I need a shower. I love you,a stór. Enjoy Paris.”

“I love you as well.”

Connor ends the call, and I blow out a breath but then smile when I see a text from Beckett come through.

Beckett: *Sends photo of a cow* This is Bessy. She says hello.

Grinning, I pull my shirt off and pad into the bathroom, turn on the spray in the shower to heat it, and then set the phone down while I take the rest of my clothes off.

Me: Bessy is beautiful. Is she milked and happy, then?

The bubbles bounce on my screen as I twist my hair into a bun on the top of my head.

Beckett: Bessy and the other ladies are happy. What are you up to?

Glancing around, I grab a towel and wrap it around me, then turn so the shower is in the background and take a selfie.

Me: *Sends selfie* I’m about to enjoy this hot shower.

I let the water run as I wait for his reply. The bubbles appear but then disappear again. This goes on for several minutes before a reply finally comes through.

Beckett: Fucking hell, Irish.

I start to giggle, but then my phone rings through with a video call from Beckett.

“I like you, but I’m not going to get naked on a video call,” I inform him.

“Are you trying to kill me?” he demands.

“If I kill you, I don’t get to enjoy you, and I plan to do plenty of enjoying you, Mr. Blackwell.” I grin when his eyes narrow on me. “Why are you calling me so soon after leaving here?”

“I texted you a photo of a cow, and you replied withthat.Why do you think I’m calling?”

I snort and shake my head. “I need to get in the shower before all the hot water is gone. Go away.”

“Do not hang up?—”

But I do hang up and leave the phone on the counter as I get in the shower and do my business. I can hear it buzzing with another call but ignore it because the water feels too good.

Last night was better than I could have imagined. I love that Beckett seems to be physically affectionate because I am, too, and it’s something that I’ve never really had in a partner.

Not that I’ve had many serious relationships. There was never time, and then The Arsehole happened.

So to be held by Beckett’s strong arms, to feel his lips on my skin, and see how much my story affected him made me feel warm inside.

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