Page 79 of Ripple Effect

I raise a playful brow. “Is this one about the way I move my tongue, because—”

“It’s about your work, El.”

“Ah.” I roll off her, propping myself up on one elbow, giving her my full attention. “I was wondering when we’d talk about this.”

“As much I enjoy kissing you,” she starts, her voice wavering, “I just—I can’t help but worry about ... you doing these things with someone else. How do you feel about it?”

My brows skyrocket. “Being with someone else? Not too fucking great, if I’m being honest.”

“I mean, I know it’s different because it’s for your job, and it’s not personal. But considering what happened with my ex, and just in general, there isn’t a part of me that wants to share you.”

“You’re talking about me filming partner scenes?”

“Mhm.” She nods, her gaze dropping. “And, um, maybe the web chats, too. Just because they’re with real people, and it feels ...”

“No, I know what you mean.”

Her eyes reflect a storm of emotions—guilt, affection, insecurity. “I feel terrible even bringing this up. I was more than aware of your job before we started all this, and so if it’s a deal breaker, then—”

“It’s not,” I gently interrupt. “Of course it’s not. And you have every right to bring this up. You’re my girlfriend. Your opinion matters.”

“Your girlfriend?”

I chuckle softly, cupping her face. “Yeah, aren’t you? That’s whatall inmeans to me, at least.”

“Oh.” She nibbles at her lower lip, eyes lighting up. “Good we’re on the same page, then.”

“Yeah, good.” I give her a knowing smirk. “So, as mygirlfriend, your opinion means a lot to me. Besides, now that I’ve felt what it’s like to be with you, I can’t picture doing that with anyone else. Job or not.”

“I just hate asking you to give up on your work,” she says, “I know you rely on that income.”

“There are compromises. Other ways I can make money. I’ve been looking into this audio-only app called Echo. It’s contract-based, so I’d know my earnings up front. No video, no real interaction. Just upload and be done.”

Her brow furrows. “And you’re okay with that? That’s what you want?”

“I’ve been having a hard time separating the two parts of my life—me and Everett—for a long time, even before I met you,” I confess. “And now we’re together, the line is even more fragmented.”

“So, you’re absolutely sure about this?”

“I’m sure,” I reiterate, tracing a finger along her jawline. “And you shouldn’t feel bad asking for what you want, not when it comes to me. I like it when you’re greedy.” I pull her closer, our foreheads touching. “Besides, this will be a good step. I was gonna fade out once I graduate next term, anyway.”

She breathes out, low and slow, the tension in her shoulders easing. “Well, that was much easier than I thought it’d be.”

“Glad I could be of service.”

“Mm, do you think we can go back to kissing now?”

One hand pressed to her heart, I murmur against her lips, “Your wish is my command.”

30

DAISY

My bed issuch a cozy little haven first thing in the morning. Today, the sound of chirping birds, running water, and Bentley’s soft snores slowly stirs me awake. But my peace is interrupted by the repetitive chime of a phone.

I turn over, expecting it to be mine, but as my eyes adjust to the room’s dim light, I spot Elio’s phone lighting up on my nightstand. Bentley wakes with me, pacing around the room, ears pricked as his pants grow heavier.

Squinting, I lean in to inspect the onslaught of notifications. An unknown number floods the screen, and my heart thuds as I take in the last few messages.

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