Page 21 of The Ranger
When we’ve cleaned up, I stand in the doorway of the bathroom pretending that I don’t notice she won’t look me in the eye.
“I’m starting a new assignment this week.”
She turns, and that panic I’ve noticed more and more frequently the past several weeks crosses her face before she can hide it.“Where?
“In LA.”
“Oh.Yeah.Good.Okay.”
A couple of times I was away for a few days.I like that she wants me close.
“So next week I’ll be busy.But I’ll still be at Thursday’s appointment.”
“’k.”
I walk to the front door, and Scarlett’s feet pad on the carpet behind me.My senses notice everything due to my training, and they’re not something I can turn off.Especially for the woman who is carrying my child.
I turn at the door, wondering what the right words are to say.Thanks for letting me fuck you.Hey, did you like it?Want to do it again?
I don’tnotwant to do it again.
But I don’t want to give her the impression that it’s heading towards a commitment.Surely, a pregnant woman would want that.
Being a single dad is one thing, I don’t want to add failed husband to my growing portfolio.
“I invited your mom and sister to the baby shower next weekend,” Scarlett says, holding onto the door.
“Thanks.She’ll appreciate that.”We stare at one another for a long moment, and when I lean in to kiss her, she steps back.
I laugh.
We both laugh.
Fuck, now it’s awkward between us.This is why we should have done it.My cock might disagree, but he’s wrong.
I shake my head, turn and walk down the path.
“Cole?”
I turn my head.
“I’m not sorry.”
“Same.”I smile, then head to the car and glance back to find her still watching me.“Lock the door.”
Scarlett slowly closes it while I lean on the roof of the Maserati, hating that I’m leaving.
Why?
What is going on between us?
I have told myself a hundred times it’s the baby, but I’m starting to think it’s not.
You’re just like your father.
“Find someone else to play with, Cole, because Scarlett is off limits.Forever,” I say out loud as I start the engine.
Forever.
