Page 56 of For the Promise

“There.”

I grasp the front of my dress before it pools at my feet. As much as I enjoy the idea of flashing Jaxon, he doesn’t want the same things I do.

He kisses my neck before stepping away and shutting the door.

I allow myself to enjoy the feel of his lips on my skin for a moment before shaking myself and getting into gear. I rush through my skin care regimen before piling my hair on top of my head.

I debate keeping my bra on – my nightshirt is old and threadbare – but I can’t sleep when I’m uncomfortable. I shedmy bra and slip into my nightshirt. It’s long enough to cover my ass but not much longer.

I study myself in the mirror. I’m not a vision of sexiness. What was I thinking when I packed? I should have included a sexy negligee. Except I don’t own one.

Oh well. Here goes nothing.

“The bathroom’s all yours.”

Jaxon’s eyes heat as he stares at me. But then he blinks and it’s gone. “I won’t be a minute.”

I climb into bed and switch on the television. I make myself comfortable as I flip through the channels.

Jaxon exits the bathroom and I can’t help myself from watching as he walks around the chalet, making sure the doors are locked and the lights are switched off. When he finishes, he grabs two pillows from the bed.

“What are you doing?”

“I need a pillow to sleep.”

“Which begs the question – why are you removing the pillows from the bed?”

“I’m not sleeping in the bed with you.”

“Why not?” I narrow my eyes. “You don’t still think I have cooties, do you?”

He grunts. “Cooties don’t exist.”

I slap the mattress next to me. “Then, get your butt in bed.”

He sighs. “I don’t think it’s a good idea.”

“Are you afraid I’m going to attack you in the middle of the night?”

He snorts. “As if I couldn’t handleyou.”

“You’re out of excuses, nerd boy.”

“I’m not a boy,” he growls and my stomach quivers. I am extremely aware he’s not a boy.

I point to his t-shirt. “But you are a nerd.” It saysI may be N Er Dy but only periodically.

His cheeks darken. It’s adorable. And sexy. Everything Jaxon does is sexy.

“I never denied being a nerd.”

I love how he owns his nerdiness. Owns who he is. He’s genuine. Unlike a certain man who’s getting married tomorrow.

“Get in the bed, nerd.”

He frowns. “I don’t think it’s a good idea.”

I lift my hand in the Girl Scout salute. “I solemnly swear to not take advantage of you.” I drop my hand. “Happy?”

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