Page 137 of Unraveling Rain
“I can’t let you do that! You already bought a brand-new RV, which, if we’re being honest, we’re not going to use a whole lot. Not to mention the multiple plots of land you’ve bought. Xander!”
She shouts my name at the end, and I can’t help but laugh.
“And don’t youdarelaugh at me. This isn’t funny,” she huffs, arms crossed.
“Okay, okay. I’m sorry for laughing—but babe, you look cute when you’re upset.”
Her eyes widen even more, and her chest turns a soft shade of pink.
“Cute? The fucking nerve.”
I bite my lip to keep from laughing again.
“I’m just telling the truth. You’re cute when you’re mad. But you’re also strong, determined, smart, gorgeous, incredibly hot, and best of all—mine.”
Her face softens, and a shy smile tugs at her lips.
“Okay. Fine. You win. I can be cute.”
I pump my fist like I just scored a game-winning goal.
“Now,” she says, amused, “about the car.”
I freeze, waiting for her verdict.
“Xander, you’ve already done so much. I’ve even moved into your apartment. I know I’ll never be able to contributeas much as you can, but I want to feel like things are mine too, you know?”
I let out a deep breath. I get it. She’s independent, not used to being given things. But she’s not alone anymore.
“I understand where you’re coming from. But in this relationship,youare making the biggest sacrifice—moving to Raleigh to be with me. So, at least let me spoil you in every way I can.”
Her eyes go glassy, but her smirk is pure mischief.
“Deal. But only because I know money and gifts aren’t the only ways you know how to spoil me.”
She wiggles her eyebrows, and I bark out a laugh.
“I love you, my wild cherry,” I say, leaning in for a kiss.
Once we’re inside the dealership, everything moves faster than I expected.
Rain checks out two SUVs before settling on a sleek SUV. The salesman keeps going on about all the special features—range, sensors, lane assist, whatever—but Rain’s more interested in how pretty the interior is.
The moment she slides into the driver’s seat, lowers the window, and winks at me, I know.
That’s her car.
“Hey, handsome. Need a ride?” she asks, pretending to pick me up outside the dealership.
“I don’t think so,” I say, playing along. “I don’t think my girlfriend would be very happy about that.”
She laughs, lowering her glasses with a smirk.
“Good answer, Hotshot. Now let’s go buy some clothes.”
I don’t know how there are so many boutiques in a mall, but we visit them all. Rain shops to her heart’s content, and I have a great time watching her model every outfit. She even tries on a few swimsuits—it takes everything in me not to follow her into the changing room.
After shopping, we head home and shower. I throw on a fresh pair of jeans and a white shirt while she slips into something new, since we’re heading out with Matt and Trin tonight.
