Page 21 of Platinum Love: A BWWM Romance

For the next three weeks, we establish a rhythm. We work on the business plan after Zoe heads off to school. I head home when Ben goes to work. Then I return in the evening to lovemaking and sleeping peacefully at Ben’s side.

It’s weird how my mind writes Ben into every memory, every detail, and I can’t recall life before Ben.

Here I thought Valentine’s Day was ruined by Lewis’ ultimate betrayal, and now I’m thankful for the skank licking his lollipop. I laugh at the irony of it all, how life can throw a curveball that feels insurmountable only to be the very moment you need to move in a better direction.

I glance down at my iPad. We have the words on the page, but I feel like something is missing. This morning, I came home and showered after another night of mind-blowing sex with Ben. But the conversations that follow always leave me wanting more.

I smile at recalling Zoe waking and our failed attempt at freezing mid-stroke. Ben’s insistence that I hold still. My insistence that he finish.

And Zoe Bear is the most precious little girl on earth. She asks a million questions, and the joy of her presence seems natural. Again, I can’t think of a moment I wouldn’t want the two of them in my life.

I get back to work. I told Ben I’d address the final notes needing my attention. I still don’t have a name for my company. Maybe printing it will help. I walk down to Daddy’s office in leggings and a t-shirt.

I push the door open, and I’m startled. “Daddy you scared me.”

“What are you doing up so early?”

“Working.” I walk over and kiss his cheek.

“My baby girl, working. Oh, do tell.”

I grab the stack of paper from the printer and sit in the very masculine chair across from him. This room oozes power from the deep dark wood that almost looks black, mixed with the sleek computer display, to the smell of leather lingering in the air.

“I’m almost done with my plan.”

“May I?” I place the small stack of papers in his hand. I fidget in the chair waiting for his response. I feel confident about the work we’ve put into this business plan. “A concierge service, huh,” he says to himself turning the pages.

I stand up walking the perimeter of his office. I stop at the wall with our family pictures smiling at the memories. The three of us have done it all. And I can’t help but wonder if I can have the same type of life with Ben. I don’t need forever to know that I love him and Zoe. He asked for a commitment, and I gave him my heart.

“Junior, let’s talk.”

I turn trying to read his face. I roll my shoulders back and retake my seat.

“Take me to the beginning.”

“I first wanted to pitch an event planning business.” I laugh at the thought now.

“I’m not surprised.”

“Right.” We laugh. “Actually, first Daddy, I want to apologize.”

His brows pique and shock covers his face. “For what, Junior?”

“All of this.” I fling a hand around. “I don’t think I’ve ever considered what it took to build the life we have. I apologize for taking it all for granted.” I now see Ben going to work, balancing school and Zoe, and I have a new appreciation for my life. “Thank you for all your hard work and the way you take care of me and Ma. I’m truly blessed.”

“Blessed? What have you done to my child?” he jokes, but I see the tears glistening in his eyes.

“Your child is growing up. I’m a big girl now.” We laugh. “And you were right, I needed this challenge.”

“You still have to present Friday.” His stern face isn’t fooling me. My Daddy is a softy.

“I know. I wouldn’t deny myself the satisfaction of seeing you sign over my check.” I shake my shoulders to lighten the mood. “So, Ben pushed me to think about an idea worthy of your investment.”

“And you created this?”

“Yeah, it was rough around the edges, and I still have a long way to go. But the foundation is solid. I considered all the events I’ve organized and hosted and my customer. A concierge service seemed obvious.”

“What level are we talking about here?”

---