Page 20 of Blind Date with a #FIREFIGHTER
He leans forward and covers my clasped hands with one of his. “We both come from difficult beginnings. We were both given a chance to change. Will you give us a chance? See where these two old souls can go?”
I shake my head. “Stubborn, aren’t you?”
He chuckles. “I like to think of it as persistent.”
“Alright.”
“Tomorrow is Aaron’s first day at your daycare and I’ll want to spend my first day off with him. How about just you and I do dinner the day after?”
I pause studying his face. So open and…honest. The look in his eyes is all about concern and acceptance.
Having lived through what he did with Cersei he has a better understanding than most of how easy it is to be taken advantage of by people you should be able to trust.
I’ve never told anyone my history for fear of shock or reproach. His concern and acceptance already bolstered my self-forgiveness. I wasn’t the one at fault in how my parents lived their lives. I was collateral damage. Much like he was with Cersei.
Maybe he’s worth breaking my personal vows, taking a chance. “Okay.”
He walks me to my car, but stops me before I climb in. Cupping my face, he kisses my forehead then lightly brushes my lips. “Text me when you get to your complex and again once you’re locked in.”
“You know I’ve been doing this for a while.”
“You were doing it before me. Now I’m here. I’ll always need to know you’re safe. Be a good girl. Text me.”
CHAPTER 11
Alex ~ Spark
I’m lying in bed thinking of her when she texts that she’s home and walking up the stairs to her apartment. Five minutes later she lets me know she’s inside.
Alex: Aaron was excited that you’ll be there his first day. I should have asked for your schedule.
Thea: I’ll give it to you in the morning.
Alex: Are you taking Dan from your firefighter book to bed with you? I’m a little jealous.
Thea: You just made me snort my water. Stay away from my books.
Alex: Can I read it when you’re done? I’m a little out of practice and could use some pointers.
Thea: I’m disconnecting now. Get some sleep.
I smile as I put my phone on the bedside table. Clasping my hands behind my head I stare at the ceiling. She has the sweetest blush. When she smiles her eyes crinkle and her lips tilt invitingly.
Damn, her body hits all my buttons. Full breasts that I’m sure would fill and overflow my big hands. I wonder if her nipples are soft pink or rosy? And those thighs, hips, and ass. Well-rounded and firm. Her body is made for loving. She’d feel so good under me, over me. I wasn’t lying when I said it’s been a while. Cersei and I were having trouble and fighting a lot before the neighbor let me know what was going on. Since that day I haven’t had the time, interest, or patience to deal with anyone.
Until sweet Thea. Oh, she’s got grit. She’ll never be a pushover, but she’s got heart. And so much love to give that it almost oozes from her. I want that love, for me and my son. I want to shower it back on her for all she suffered. I’m pretty sure she left a lot out.
In a lot of ways, we’re not that different. Both hurt, both fighting to heal. The age difference is gonna be a thing for her. I’ll figure it out. I have to. I already know Aaron and I need her in our lives.
The next morning both Aaron and I are more nervous than I expected. We get to the daycare and he hesitates getting out of the car. “What’s up, buddy?”
“I just… Is Thea going to be here?”
“Yes. And I’m sure you’ll get to see her off and on all day. You may not be able to spend the whole day with her, but she will be here.”
“Do I still get to text you before bed?”
“Yes, that was in the forms because of the length of my shifts. It’s going to be fine, buddy. We’ll talk a couple times today. I promise.”
