Page 59 of Raspberry Cake
“We had a few therapy sessions together and they really helped her get through that. She was by my side the whole time.” She leaned down and kissed his nose. “She is really happy that I have you by my side now.”
Renley smiled and returned his attention to her feet. “She said she likes me pushing your boundaries like yesterday.”
“You won her over with that mindset.”
“You mean being insensitive?” he laughed.
“People are oftentoosensitive. You act like there’s nothing wrong with me at all.”
“Thereisnothing wrong with you.”
“Repeat that please.”
“You are perfect, Eveline.”
Tears welled in her eyes as she fought to hold herself together. Only, she remembered that he was her safe haven, and she allowed the foundation to crack. Tears crept down her cheeks, and she lost herself in his deep, chocolate eyes. Never in a million years would she have expected to find love when she’d reached out to him.
“I love you,” she whispered, salt tinting her lips as the tears splashed to her lap. She had so much more to say, including that he didn’t have to say it back, but Renley silenced her by sweeping the tears away with his thumbs.
“I love you too. The moment I stepped into your office I knew you would rob me of my mind. I’m yours, Eveline.”
“You are everything,” she sobbed. “Myeverything.”
Renley’s hands dropped to her hips and he stood, bringing her with him. His forehead against hers he held her, his own tears mixing with hers. He held her tight and slowly twirled, losing himself as much in her eyes as she was drowning in his.
“I never want you to stop pushing my boundaries.”
He chuckled, fingers digging into her ass. “As long as you keep me by your side, I will make sure you never miss out on anything.” He laid on the bed, positioning her in her rightful spot: head on his chest, leg tossed over his. They drifted off that way, Renley’s heartbeat in her ear serving as a gentle, steady lullaby.
She dozed off, only awaking when the sun warmed her face. Lifting her head, she found herself still on top of Renley who seemed wide awake.
“Hi gorgeous.”
“What time is it?”
“Ten or so?”
“It is?”
“Thought you might want to sleep in today.”
She laid back down, his chest wooshing under her ear with each inhale and exhale. “I don’t want you to leave.”
“We still have a few hours. I promise to request more days off next time.”
She pushed her hands under his shoulders trying to snuggle to him as close as she could. “You told me you love me.”
“I did.”
“You love me, Renley.”
“I do, kitten,” he purred, combing his fingers through her hair. “And you love me.”
“Very much so.”
They didn’t move until their stomachs began growling. Only then did they pull themselves from bed and got dressed for breakfast.
Or… lunch, as it was.
