Page 15 of Vawn
“Oh.” Vawn ran his finger along his chin. “I thought you’d still be going out even though I had to cancel. You know, since you came here with no idea that I’d be here, too.”
I breathed deep, unsure how much to reveal, not even sure how he felt about me. “I can leave if you want, but I really didn’t make any other plans for the night.”
“Okay, well, if that’s what you want.” Vawn’s expression softened as he gave me a shy smile. “Just make sure it’s kid friendly. Don’t need another sleepless night because Enif is having bad dreams.”
I nodded. “Got it. How about one of my favorites from when I was a kid?” The video was about a Jenegathian, like me, who woke up on an uncolonized planet and made friends with all of the creatures that lived there. Maybe a bit unrealistic, but it was cute, and perfect for Enif.
I tapped the chip in my jaw then used my mind to locate the movie.
“Why don’t you sit up here, with us?” Vawn patted the cushion beside him. “It’s got to be more comfortable than the floor.”
I was fine, and it definitely wasn’t the least comfortable place I’d ever been. Not even close. But I wouldn’t refuse his offer. I quickly joined him and his daughter on the couch as the video began. After a few minutes, Enif crawled onto my lap and rested her head against my chest. It was sweet, and completely unexpected. A short time later, Vawn tucked his feet up beside him and leaned on my shoulder. They were both asleep before the video finished.
Yet, Utahn remained awake. He snorted and shook his head. “Why did you come here when you could have been out fucking someone else? I’m sure you’d rather do that than get drooled on by those two. I mean, that’s why you came to Rennir, right?”
“I guess, yeah.” I shrugged. “But they’re family of two of my teammates. I kind of felt obligated.”
“That’s it?” He snorted again. “No other reason? ’Cause you’re a space racer. You’re supposed to do one-night stands only. Not family shit. Not even Genj or Ret would do this. You don’t have time for this, remember?”
I held up a hand, shocked by his bitterness, and had no idea where it came from since we’d only just met. “Sure, most of us are like that but not everyone. And I like Vawn. I wanted to help him out.”
His eyes turned sharp, and his nostrils flared. “Don’t you dare play with his feelings. If you’re only looking for sex, I suggest you leave before Vawn wakes up.”
Shit, what was it I wanted? I’d had the opportunity to have sex but came here instead, not expecting anything but to see Vawn again. What did that mean? And what, if anything, did Vawn want from me?
Utahn plucked Enif from my lap. “I mean it. Please, don’t hurt my best friend.”
Hurt?I didn’t want to. Yet, I also had no urge to move.
Suddenly, Vawn lifted his head from my shoulder. He gave me the softest, sleepiest smile before he leaned down to rest his head in my lap, where he fell back to sleep. My heart felt so warm, so full, and I didn’t want to be anywhere else at that moment.
Chapter Nine
Vawn
I woke up with my cheek pressed to Ojokun’s chest, my body on top of his. And I could feel his hardness against my stomach. While that slight pressure reminded me of the amazing night we’d spent together on Eurebly, it also made me feel awkward. The sex with Ojo had been mind-blowing, but I had to keep my emotions locked away. I couldn’t fall for him only to find out I was simply a passing phase for him. Especially with my daughter here. I didn’t want her to get attached, either. Yet, I had no desire to leave the warmth and comfort of his arms around me.
Suddenly, he moved, his fingers trailing through my hair. It felt good, and I moaned as I cuddled tighter to him.
“Good morning,” he whispered.
“Mmm, hello.” I had no idea how I’d gotten into this position, didn’t remember anything after leaning on his shoulder during the movie.
“Did you sleep well?” He continued to stroke my hair, making no move to get me off him. Though I knew it couldn’t last.
“Yeah, thanks to you. But I think I should get up now. I need to check on Enif.” I had no idea where my daughter was, but I assumed Utahn had taken her to bed since he wasn’t in the room, either.
“She’s fine. Playing in her room.”
I peeked over the couch to see my friend standing in the hallway, drinking a cup of koobee.
“You sure she’s okay?” I quickly got off Ojokun, making him groan in the process. “How long has she been up?”
He narrowed his eyes at me. “Not long. But I think you need to talk to her.”
Stars.What had my daughter said to him this time? “Okay, I’m going.” I glanced back at Ojo. “Are you going to be here for a bit, or do you have to leave?”
He sat up and scratched his head while yawning. “I’ve got no plans. I’ll be here when you’re done, if you want me to stay.”
