It sounded more like he had cast her aside the last time she spoke of him. That’s not something to be happy about.

Okay, then. She was afraid of the unknown with Gabriel. And now that she’s actually living with me, she realizes it’s not so bad.

Yeah, that’s it.

We watch another episode, and I turn to her after it’s over to ask if she wants to keep going, only to find her eyes shut, head turned awkwardly on her pillow. My gaze drifts down, one sleeve of her sweatshirt slipping off, her shoulder bare. Is she wearing anything underneath?

Jesus Christ. The sexy sleepwear I can understand provoking these thoughts, but oversized loungewear? What’s wrong with me?

I turn off the TV and set the popcorn bowl on her nightstand, pulling a spare blanket from the closet to lie over her. She makes a soft snuffling sound as she curls into its warmth, and I quickly close the door behind me, needing to get out of there, to preserve my sanity if nothing else. Every day I spend with her uncovers yet another side of her, today being no different.

Nonprofit director beloved by her employees and animals alike.

Homebody who enjoys watching cheesy comedies, her soprano laughter sweet and inviting.

Unintentional seductress with yoga moves that make men fall to their knees.

She keeps pulling me in, something about her rendering me powerless against any will to fight.

But what exactly is she doing?

And what am I fighting?