Page 76 of Unraveling Rain
I nod, guiding her to my SUV.
I guess my karaoke debut will have to wait.
Chapter 21
Rain
Xander drives us back to Serene Lookout in comfortable silence. Neither of us seems to know what to say after sayingI love youfor the first time—and in such a special way.
I’m still replaying the moment in my head. I’m so glad all my siblings were in on the plan. And that Xander got it on video. Maybe one day we’ll show it to our kids.
I never thought I’d meet someone like him. He’s kind, generous, attentive. And hot. So hot. He’s passionate about his career and has a bright future ahead. And yet… he’s mine.
I’ve been so consumed by my thoughts, I don’t realize we’ve parked until I look over and find Xander watching me with soft, adoring eyes.
I smile shyly and tuck a piece of hair behind my ear, only then noticing how sweaty my palms are.
“Are you okay, Cherry?” he asks, brows furrowing as he leans closer. He gently lifts my chin, bringing my eyes to his.
I take a few calming breaths. “Yeah, of course. It’s just that…”
I trail off, unsure how to say what’s on my mind.
His thumb brushes against my bottom lip, passes from side to side. The tender gesture puts me at ease.
“It’s just…” I begin again, “I’d like to have some fun tonight, you know?”
A slow, gorgeous smile spreads across his face. He nods.
“But I’m not sure I’ll be able to go all the way,” I add quickly. “I don’t want to disappoint you.”
Relief floods through me, having said what’s been bugging me.
He wraps his arms around my waist, voice low and gentle. “What if tonight is all about you?”
I frown. “What do you mean?”
“All I want is to make you feel good. To give you pleasure. Is that okay?”
I nod and close my eyes, but he gently takes my hands.
This man is a walking green flag. There’s honestly no reason for me to keep wondering when the shoe is going to drop. Because something tells me it won’t.
“Babe, look at me,” he says. “Tonight, you call the shots. If you want to stop, we’ll stop. If you want more, I’ll give you more. You’re in control, Rain.”
I look into his eyes and see nothing but love. Real, steady love.
“Okay,” I whisper.
He’s out of the car in an instant, jogging around to open my door. I giggle at his eagerness, but honestly, I’m just as eager.
He lifts me bridal-style and carries me into his room, setting me carefully on the bed. Then he kneels and begins to remove my boots with such tenderness, it makes my chest ache.
“Is it okay if I remove your clothes?” he asks, hands resting on his thighs.
I nod.
“Words, Cherry,” he reminds me gently. “I need to hear your voice.”
