I tried to understand what he was saying. Did he mean a relationship or just this…as in just sex? My face fell. "Oh," I said and got off the bed. "It's not a bad arrangement. You need to get ready for work. I also need to check up on Alfred."
I couldn't find any of my clothes, so I picked up his T-shirt and one of his joggers. They didn't fit but they were comfy. I used the string from the joggers to fasten it to my waist. When I was done, I turned to see him looking at me with an inscrutable expression.
"Did I say something wrong?" He scratched his head for a moment and stepped off the bed. He stood in front of me - tall and naked with a semi hard length. I looked away, not sure how to continue. Of course, he said something wrong. I wanted him to define our relationship, but I didn't want to spoil the mood or push things too far. We had just barely reconciled. There would be time for more… I hoped.
I mustered a smile as his arm went around me. I felt his warm skin through the clothes I wore. His brown eyes had a look of reassurance. I let out a shuddering breath and hugged him. "We can work on what you said that was wrong, but for now let's focus on the good part of today. Like I said, you need to get to work while I check on Alfred. You can't keep me in bed forever, you know." I tiptoed and kissed his lips lightly.
He smiled, breaking his hold on me." You're right. I would hate to keep both of you away from each other any longer." He slapped my ass playfully as I walked away from him.
"I also plan to go to the grocery store today to get some ingredients and food. Your refrigerator and kitchen are practically empty, and that won't do although, there's enough for me to whip up a quick meal. See you at the dining table." I shut the door behind me and released my breath. My heart thundered in my chest. I was already living a life I hadn't bargained for, and I feared I would become a shell of what I once was. For now, I would keep the peace.
I didn't go back to my room to change. I liked having his clothes on; his scent was comforting. It was as if he was close, wrapping his arms around me. I made my way to Alfred's room. He was awake but lay on the bed without moving. When I checked on him in panic, he giggled rolling on his side. "You!" I spluttered. He crawled to me and gripped my shirt, climbing my body for a hug.
"Mama, hugs…" I hugged him, breathing in the new scent in this house: he smelled like lemons and cream.
"Don't scare mama like that again, baby. You hear?" I pinched his fat cheeks to press home my point. He pouted then nodded.
"Come, let's go cook something delicious for Papa. Would you like bread and milk?" I got out of his bed and walked to the door, suggesting different food options. I glanced back at his room. Lorenzo had truly gone all out. His room was twice as big as his previous room at my place, and he had toys and all sorts of gadgets I could not afford. It wasn't such a bad choice living with all these options.
We went down the stairs and into the kitchen. I found a seat for Alfred by the island. It was equipped with a baby seat. I used it to keep him in place and gave him a small plate of washed grapes to entertain him. I quickly got to work. The kitchen was large with floor-to-ceiling windows that let in natural light. They gave the kitchen a spacious feel. The appliances and utensils were top notch. Using the available cheese and macaroni, I made his favorite creamy comfort dish topped off with fried ham. I served a generous portion for Lorenzo while for Alfred, I toasted two slices of bread and made one fried egg to go with the ham.
Satisfied with what I’ve done, I was about to serve Alfred when someone hugged me from behind. "Ahh!" I yelled, turning sharply to see Lorenzo's smiling face.
"Sorry I scared you. This delicious aroma brought me in." He sniffed the air to emphasize what he had said.
"That's good. I see you're dressed. Would you like to eat here or in the dining room?" He let go of me, and I gave Alfred his food. He waved his plastic cutlery and bounced in his chair at the sight of it.
"Good morning, son," Lorenzo kissed his head and took a seat beside him at the island. "Here would be perfect, what do you think?"
"I think you're full of yourself. Here…" When I gave him his food, he pulled me to his lap. I blushed, feeling my ass press the imprint of his erection. "What are you doing?" I whispered, looking at Alfred, who was devouring the egg on his plate. I glared at Lorenzo.
"I can't finish all this. Eat with me." He brought the spoon to my lips, and I grudgingly opened them. He smiled when he saw me eating. I sat this way with him till we finished our meal. I loved how intimate that felt.
Done eating, and flirting, I stood outside the house and watched Lorenzo get in his car. Antonio was taking him out today. Beside me stood two men in black and white suits. Lorenzo said they were guards meant to protect me and Alfred. I waved at him as the car drove out. When he got back, there would be a lot to talk about.
Chapter 21
CRYSTAL
Theguardslookedeverywherebut at me. I ignored them and went back into the house. I didn't doubt Lorenzo's words, but it was odd having guards around suddenly. However, I would rather be safe with my son than be targeted in our own home. Lorenzo advised me not to go to get groceries. He gave me access to one of his cards and said I could ask one of the guards to get me whatever I wanted. I guessed using them as errand boys wouldn’t be so bad.
I sent, Landon who was efficient and brought back all I needed. Some minutes later, the cleaners arrived and did their job. I had nothing to do for the rest of the day other than to spend time with Alfred. I was restless. I loved taking care of my son but living in such a big house with little to no entertainment wasn't my speed. I wanted to be back at work; that was one of the things I wanted to talk to him about.
Later in the evening, I received his call. He was on his way home. Immediately, I felt anxious and expectant. Remembering how much he enjoyed my cooking, I decided to go all out for the next meal. I was overcompensating, but that didn't stop me. I had Alfred with me in the kitchen, not far away from me. To impress him, I made stir fried pasta, Chinese pickled cucumbers and Teriyaki chicken, and at the last minute I made spring rolls.
I smiled looking at my handiwork. The house was filled with a warm, inviting aroma. I was sure those expressionless guards outside were salivating. It was no surprise when I heard the door open. I carried the dishes on a tray and served them in the dining room. I retrieved Alfred immediately and waited for Lorenzo to come to the dining table. He was not disappointed.
"Crystal…" I could hear the awe in his voice. He stood at the curved entrance to the dining room, taking in the view. I was nervous before, but seeing the look on his face now, I felt confident.
"Come, I made this for you." I cringed a little, feeling like a housewife. "Papa, food… Eat!" Alfred stretched his arms out to Lorenzo, wanting a hug. He obliged. He took him from my hands then placed his palm on my waist, gently guiding me to the table.
"You've outdone yourself. Rarely do I come home to such a wholesome scene." He kissed my forehead and took his seat. Alfred was playing with his tie. He took it off and let him fuss with it.
"I just wanted to do this for you. I hope you like it," I said, shyly.
He took my hand into his and kissed it. "I appreciate this. It smells heavenly."
"Try it," I urged. He nodded. He started with the pasta then went on to a slice of the teriyaki chicken. He was nodding and humming as he ate. I felt pride having engendered that expression of satisfaction on his face.