Page 85 of Fight For Us
“Yup, all set. Go be all romantic and shit.” He smiled a goofy grin and smacked my arm lightly.
“Don’t burn the place down. I’d hate to ruin my date,” I joked.
I came back into the office, poured our wine, and sat across from Olivia, quietly taking in how gorgeous she looked in the candlelight. After what she told me earlier, I was even more set on taking care of her. I’d never felt so angry and possessive at the same time. And I meant what I said. I’d make sure that asshole never took another breath if I ever found him. I didn’t need to hear details, what I heard was enough to make me out for blood.
I watched her slender neck bob as a sip of wine slid down her throat. If Caleb wasn’t here, Olivia would be my appetizer.
“Did you guys like any of the houses?” she asked, dabbing her lips with a napkin.
I pulled out my phone to show her the pictures I took. “We looked at three and I loved one of them. Here, take a look. Let’s see if we have the same favorite.”
She scrolled through the pics with a thoughtful gaze, pinching the screen on a few to zoom in. She flipped my phone to show me the exterior shot of the beach house I loved. “This one has to be it.”
“I knew you’d love it.”
I told her all about the features as she beamed back at me, asking questions in an excited tone. I could see us living there long-term. The place was perfect.
“Want to go check it out tomorrow?” I asked. “We can bring Lilly, too. Although, Alex already called dibs on the better bedroom, and who am I to argue the rules of dibs?” I shrugged, laughing.
“Of course… I can’t wait. I was secretly upset that we may have had to find something inland but this is perfect. Are you sure it’s in our budget?”
I knew she’d ask that question and while it was pricey, it wouldn’t be a problem for me. I slung my arm around the back of my chair and pushed my tongue against my cheek. “It won’t be a problem.”
“Wes…” She narrowed her eyes. “I don’t want us to take on a lease that’s too expensive. I don’t need beachside. We can find cheaper.”
I leaned forward and took her hand in mine. “If you want beachside, you’re getting beachside.” I brought her hand tomy lips and kissed the top of her palm. “You’re going to have everything you want, no matter what.”
She closed her eyes and inhaled. “I appreciate that. Really, I do. I guess it’s tough for me since I’ve always relied on my parents for everything and I’m finally on my own and then bam—you’re here to support me. I don’t want to feel like I’m not pulling my weight.”
“I understand. Should I find someplace else?”
She nibbled her bottom lip and sighed. “No, I do like this one. I’ll make sure to contribute half to everything.”
I clenched my jaw and nodded. “Of course, whatever makes you happy.”
Caleb knocked and carried in two fresh green salads sprinkled with shaved parmesan and cracked black pepper. Oliva gave him a hug and thanked him for helping us before he turned to leave.
“He’s come so far since I met him,” she said. “I’m proud of him.”
She wasn’t wrong. I hadn’t even had to gripe at him about being on his phone in a few months.
“Did you talk to Lilly about starting those self-defense classes?” I asked, hoping Lilly agreed.
“Yes, and she said she’d try it. She was especially keen on learning how to punch properly. I love that kid.”
A warm glow flooded my chest.Love.She loved my kid.“I’m glad she agreed to try. I feel like she’s really turning a corner.” I sipped my wine and swallowed. “Or maybe I’ve gotten to know her better the last few months and feel closer to her.”
“Keep on doing your best. Ask questions, spend time with her, and your relationship will continue to grow.”
“You’re right. I probably over complicated everything because I was scared. Even my mom mentioned the other day how much happier Lilly seems.” I took a bite of my salad, chewing slowly.
“Once Alex gets his cast off, he’ll be right there with her. Fingers crossed we get good news next week. He’d be devastated if he has to wear it longer or, God forbid, have another surgery.”
I could understand that. “Let’s hope for the best,” I said. “Let’s talk about you, though, my sexy wife.” Her cheeks flushed, so I said it again. “My wife.”
“It’s so weird when you say that. So possessive.”
“I am possessive. And I love to say it. Every time I do, I’m reminded of how fucking lucky I am to have you.”
