CHAPTER 23HUGH
CHAPTER 23
HUGH
The way Denise kept me close all night ignited something in me that made me never want to let her go. There’d been so many times between us where she’d pushed me away. It felt good knowing that she was finally inviting me in and not fighting what was growing between us.
Dark and morbid thoughts roiled around in my head as I watched the cops collect their information. I’d been too polite the first time with Curtis, afraid of really letting myself go. Next time, I wasn’t going to be polite. It was almost like I could feel the weight of the switchblade in my hand… But I couldn’t think about that. I needed to focus on her. She needed me right now.
“Come on.” I pulled her toward the shower, wanting to wash off the day. It didn’t take long before I had her wrapped in a towel. Her eyes closed as she let me dry her off.
She didn’t speak until we were in bed, her body tucked into mine. After a few minutes, her breathing changed, and her shoulders started to shake. I tightened my hold around her and let her feel me there as she finally allowed the day to catch up with her.
“I was so scared.” Her voice was quiet as she sniffled.
“I know, Denny. You did so well,” I replied. And she did. She was bossing all those guys around, getting names and badge numbers. Every officer was yes ma’aming her by the end of the night. “So well,” I reiterated.
“No. I—this is all my fault,” she replied. I brought my thumb to her cheek, wiping her tears away. I felt rage roll through me, and I buried my face in her neck to stay in that moment with her.
“This isn’t on you,” I tried hard to keep my tone even.
“I put you all in this position. I’m gonna fix it, I promise.”
My lips moved to her neck as I spoke. “ We will fix it. I’m here. You’re not getting rid of me.”
Her hands came up, clinging to my arms.
“I’m here.” I kissed her neck.
“I’m here.” My lips moved to her ear.
“I’m here.” I kissed her damp cheek.
“Say the words,” I whispered against her lips. Her teary eyes opened. She was thinking. I could see the war being waged in her eyes as her gaze shifted away from me.
“Hugh—”
I grabbed her chin, “Look at me.” After a second, she gave me her eyes and I ran my thumb along her lips.
“Say them,” I insisted.
“You’re here,” she said, her voice breathy.
I could see the exhaustion on her face, and I didn’t know if she was agreeing to shut me up or if the woman was finally beginning to see reason. Either way, I was going to take it as a win.
She snuggled back into me, and I felt myself relax for a second before I remembered one other thing.
“Don’t think I’ve forgotten. We’re gonna have a conversation about you testing my fucking patience, Little Menace.”
“Looking forward to it,” she said on a yawn, unbothered.
Oh, I was going to fix that attitude.