Page 58 of Wild

I push those thoughts from my mind, refusing to dwell on them now.

Finally, we make it to the next apartment building. It’s nicer from the outside, brick, freshly painted door and shutters, even the steps leading to the front are clean as if someone has dusted off leaves and debris.

As we walk up the steps, I feel Hollis’s hand press lightly against my waist and I smile to myself.

I open the door and the foyer is lined with old black and white tile. It shines like new even though it’s not. There’s a door to my left, one straight ahead, and another on the right with a sweeping staircase also on the left leading to the upstairs apartment. I’m sure before this was turned into apartments it was a beautiful, large, family home.

“It’s upstairs on the right,” I tell Hollis and we begin to climb the stairs. “The landlord said he’d leave the door unlocked for us and he’s downstairs in apartment two if we need him.”

We reach the landing and I turn to the apartment on the right. There’s another beside it, two across, and another on the end. With so many apartments on one level I have a hard time believing it’ll be large enough, but we’ll see.

I try the door and it’s unlocked like the landlord promised.

We step inside and I’m pleasantly surprised by what I find. Original hardwood floors worn with age, but in good shape, cover the floors. There are windows facing the street and an alleyway, which isn’t the greatest thing to look at, but it does let in a lot of natural light.

There are exposed brick walls throughout the apartment, and the kitchen and bathroom have been recently remodeled with granite countertops and new cabinets. The bedroom is small, but it has enough room for me to make do.

Hollis follows me through the space, not saying anything, instead letting me think through on my own.

I finally turn toward him and he stops. His black boots nearly touch my sneakers we stand so close.

“I think it’s perfect.”

He smiles at my words. “You sure?” I love how he doesn’t give me his opinion, not yet, instead wanting to hear what I have to say.

I nod, smiling as I look around once more. “There’s room for my bed and stuff, a couch and TV, even a small dining table and chairs set.”

“Sounds to me like you’re already picturing yourself here.”

“I am,” I admit with a quiet giggle. “It’s a big step.”

“It is,” he agrees. “If you think it’s time, then it is.”

I nod, feeling excitement build inside. “It’s perfect. It’s within walking distance from the studio, close to the restaurants, and I’m only a mile or two from Kira.”

He places his hands on my hips, looping his fingers into my jeans to tug me against him. “And don’t forget, in close proximity to me.” He lowers his head, nipping my ear.

I shiver involuntarily.

A moment later his lips press softly to mine. For a second fear clenches my body, but then I remind myself we’re here alone, no one is watching, and I can kiss him back if I want. I wrap my arms around his shoulders, standing on my tiptoes to get closer, and kiss him deeply. Kissing Hollis is different than kissing anyone else I ever have. With him, I feel safe, protected … cared for. In the past I’ve always felt used, or as if something wasn’t quite right.

He breaks the kiss, tucking a piece of hair behind my ear. His touch is gentle, almost reverent, as his fingers linger against the curve of my cheek.

“Should we find the landlord?” he inquires, backing a step away.

My skin feels chilled from his absence.

I look around again then give him a smile. “Yeah.”

An hour later, I have a signed contract and the place is mine. I’m free to move in any time next week.

Hollis and I step outside. The sun is already setting, painting the old buildings in a golden orange hue.

I squeak when Hollis grabs my hand and tugs me down into the alley between my new home and the building next door.

“What are you doing?”

A moment later I get my answer when he cages me against the brick exterior, one hand on each side of my head, and kisses me deeply.

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