Page 51 of Wrong Place Perfect Time

Shifting myself so I don’t wake her once I get up, I check the dying fire and feel satisfied that all our clothes are dry.

A little smokier than I’d like but dry from the flames.

A new fire lit inside both of us, though, and glancing over at Jasmine for maybe the millionth time, I notice she’s missing something.

Her eyeglasses.

Earlier, I might have sworn it was the one thing I found irresistible about her, but even without them, she’s perfect.

But a perfect girl who can’t see where she’s going isn’t what either of us needs, so I decide to check the car.

She must’ve left them in the car. Otherwise, they’re gone for good.

I admit, being a little preoccupied with other things on my mind and in my hands, I kinda hadn’t even noticed until now.

Frowning I notice it’s not only Jasmine who was forgetful when I get to the car.

In our rush to get inside, I left my phone in the car as well as the fucking car keys.

Doors unlocked, but the case and all that cash is still staring back at me.

I think this is the one place in all of the state where you could leave a suitcase like this and still find it the next morning.

I rummage around a little and find Jasmine’s glasses, making sure I stow them safely in my jacket pocket for now.

The urge to check my phone is strong, but I know better than switching it on.

Old habits die hard, but we all know our phones are easily tapped and tracked, only using them for boring things like actually making phone calls and nothing else.

The Martinellis rarely send a text or email.

And until this morning, we’ve never left a trail as wide as I have either.

I can almost hear Papa’s disdain in the air as I smile to myself, recalling what Maria Portello had said about being free.

I feel the chilly wind on my face, knowing Jasmine’s waiting for me to snuggle up to her and warm her up some more.

I’m beginning to like this freedom thing.

Feels like what I was really made for.

CHAPTERFIFTEEN

Jasmine

I wake up suddenly and shivering naked under the rough blanket. I reach for the man I know isn’t there long before I even open my eyes.

Sitting up in a near panic, I’m relieved when I hear Rocco’s telltale steps as he comes back inside.

It’s still dark out, with just the faintest hint of the morning through the gray clouds outside, but I’m wide awake now.

And eyeing my clothes, it isn’t long before Rocco starts handing them to me, making me blush once I shoo him a little.

Telling him to turn around while I get dressed.

“Turn around?” he complains, shrugging and doing as I ask.

I hurriedly try to dress, catching my toes on the elastic of my underwear and almost tumbling over head first.

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