Page 54 of Skid
He took me to a taco truck for dinner then we walked through the bustling downtown area of Portstill. It was a nice town, and the people who walked by us nodded to Dalton with a smile. I was curious to know why the club was so highly respected, and he explained about the charity work and countless businesses owned by the club. To the town of Portstill, it appeared the Death Hounds were not to be feared.
Maybe I was wrong about the club, but something told me they had secrets that they would kill to protect.
When we returned to the house, I could see he was eager to get back to work but not trying to brush me off. Never wanting him to feel bad about his responsibilities, I offered, “Why don’t you work for a while, and I’ll settle in with my book.”
“Are you sure? I don’t want you to feel like I’m choosing it over you.”
Taking his hand into mine, I led him to the couch in the living room and sat down, encouraging him to join me. Turning to him, I asked, “If you work now, will you be closer to being finished?”
“Yeah, but it can wait until the morning. I’d rather ravage you tonight.” He leaned over and kissed my neck, causing chill bumps to erupt across my skin.
I needed him but would wait until he could focus all his attention on me. He was distracted and under stress, and if finishing whatever assignment Devlin gave him would give him peace of mind, I could wait.
“I’ll be gone all day tomorrow with Sadie, so I need to get some rest. Why not put everything into it tonight and tomorrow while I’m gone. Then, when I get home, I can model some of the new lingerie for you.”
“I think that sounds amazing and I think you’re incredible.”
“I’m just me,” I reasoned, and he stood from the couch, keeping his hand in mine.
“I’ll get you something to help you relax before I get back to it.” His sexy wink was making me second guess my restraint as he went into the kitchen.
Battling the inner voice in my head, I tried to remain adaptable yet independent. Giving in seemed like I was falling into the trap that was laid shortly after my twelfth birthday, and no matter the depth of my feelings for Dalton, I feared I would slide into the mind games and resort to compliance to keep the peace.
My gaze was on the silent fireplace across the room when Dalton returned. Glancing at him, I saw him push a smile onto his face before reaching his closed hand out to me. Sitting up, I peeked into his hand as he opened it to reveal a beautifully rolled joint. Taking it from him, he leaned over and kissed me until I couldn’t catch my breath.
“Enjoy your relaxation, beautiful, and if you decide to get into the hot tub, let me know. I don’t want you to fall asleep out there,” he joked.
Picking up my book from the coffee table, I stood and turned to face him. “I promise no naps in the hot tub. Now get to work so I can have my way with you tomorrow.”
He wiggled his eyebrows and pecked me on the cheek before he walked upstairs. I could hear his office door close, and I smiled into the empty room before walking onto the back porch. I sat down on the overstuffed chair and lit the joint, inhaling deeply and leaning back to watch the sun set across the lake.
My phone chimed from my pocket, and I pulled it out to see Eddie had sent me a text.
Eddie:How’s Tennessee?
Me:It’s beautiful. You’d like it here.
Eddie:Do you like it there?
Me:I love it here.
It was hard for me to admit my feelings since they were twisted against me so cruelly, but Eddie was someone I could always be honest with. I don’t know why he’s been so wonderful to me through the years, but if it weren’t for him and the two counselors I worked with after running away, I would be a basket case most days.
Eddie:Have you thought about staying for a while or are you planning to run back home?
Me:I want to stay, but I’m scared.
Eddie:Of Skid? Has he done something to hurt you?
Me:No. He’s wonderful. That’s what I’m scared of.
Just admitting that was cathartic. I took another draw off the joint before snubbing it out and letting my gaze move to the lake. The orange sky was casting a glow on the lake, and I couldn’t think of anything more beautiful than the scene in front of me. Snapping a quick picture, I went to set my phone down to pick up my book when it rang.
Seeing it was Eddie, I answered, happy to talk to my closest friend.
“Hey. How’s things at home?” I asked and could faintly hear music in the background.
“Things are good. We miss you here, but I’m happy you’re having a good time,” Eddie replied with a pause. “Now, tell me why you’re scared, Grace.”
