Chapter 37
THIRTY-SEVEN
AINSLEY
We took a hot shower together, taking turns cleaning each other off. The blood that washed off his cock struck me with a tinge of embarrassment, but not for long. He wasn't bothered by it. If anything, it turned him on again—a reminder that he was my first.
As we’re toweling dry, the exhaustion hits. I know it’s late, but I have a feeling the sleepiness is stemming from my first real sexual experience. As I pick up my pajamas to put them back on, he stops me.
"Don't even think about putting your clothes back on. I want you naked lying next to me in my bed." He leaves no room for argument, and I see no reason to. I want nothing more than to cuddle my naked body against his. I'm surprised I'm this comfortable with a man.
Ace ate me out, check.
We had sex, check.
We showered together, check.
Now we are going to sleep with each other naked? Double check. I'm sure knocking a lot of firsts off the ol' bucket list. I wouldn't want this with any other man but Ace, he was my entire world for so long. And the periods of time when he wasn't, my life didn't make sense, no matter how hard I tried.
We lie down facing one another, with my body pressed firmly against his. I realize I never said it back.
"Ace?"
"Mmm...Yeah, baby?"
"I love you." His eyes lock me in place as he leans closer at my words. "I mean, I'm in love with you." Just in case he wasn't clear on what I meant. I'm done hiding how I truly feel about him; he needs to know I'm all in.
His lips lock onto mine in an intoxicating kiss, stealing away any doubt. Breaking apart the kiss, he presses his forehead to mine.
"I've loved you since I was eleven—first as my best friend’s little sister, then as my friend. But now? Now, I’m in love with you—the woman I’m meant to spend my life with."