Chapter Thirty-Three
Wells
I’ve been awake for a while as the faint glow of the sun peeks over the horizon, casting slivers of light through the terrace doors.
The living room is quiet, save for the peaceful cadence of Victory’s breathing.
She’s asleep with her cheek on my chest, her T-shirt bunched around her ribs, her bare leg resting on mine.
We fell asleep on the couch after packing up Harvey’s things. The boxes we packed are lined up against the wall to be donated to charity. Victory kept his awards to display in the lobby of Blank Space, underscoring the incredible legacy he built that she will continue to nurture.
I enjoyed learning more about him through the memories she shared as we packed his clothes, shoes, awards, books, and other personal items. Her voice faltered, bringing tears with certain stories and humor with others.
When she showed me their wedding pictures and other photographs, I thought I might feel jealous or competitive, but I didn’t.
I feel a strange kinship with Harvey, as the two men lucky enough to have earned Victory’s love.
I’m glad they had each other, and I’m grateful she let me stay last night to support her as she came out from under her grief, one box and one heartfelt goodbye at a time.
She talked more about that fateful night when she lost him. This time the guilt in her voice wasn’t as thick. I don’t know exactly what changed, but I’m glad something did. After everything I’ve learned about the man who loved her first, I know he wouldn’t want her carrying that burden.
I run my hand through the ends of her hair, and she stretches, making a sweet, sleepy sound. I hold her a little tighter, pressing a kiss to her forehead, hoping she doesn’t regret letting me stay. “Morning.”
“ Mm. Morning,” she says softly, and kisses my chest.
I run my hand down her back. “Did you sleep okay?”
“Mm-hm. Better than I have in a while.” She tips her face up. “How about you?”
“I had you in my arms. How do you think I slept?”
She smiles.
“How do you feel? Any second thoughts? We can unbox anything you want to keep.”
Her brows knit, as if she’s taking stock of her emotions. “I feel different.”
“Like you’re used to sleeping on a softer mattress?” I tease.
“Last night’s mattress was perfect. I feel lighter. Like it’s easier to breathe.”
“I’m glad, babe.”
“Me too. Donating Harvey’s things is what he would want, and I have everything I need in here.” She leans back and puts her hand over her heart. “Thank you for helping me last night. I couldn’t have done it without you.”
“You could have, but I’m glad you let me be here with you. Do you need to get ready for work?”
“That depends. Are you free for lunch, or do you have to get back to the island?”
“What kind of choice is that? I’ll take door number one, please. Where should I meet you?”
She traces circles on my chest with her index finger. “I was thinking you could come to my office and meet some of the people I work with.”
My fucking heart feels like it’s going to burst out of my chest. “You want to show off your arm candy?”
“Maybe.”
“I know how you are. You want to parade me through the halls like I’m your trophy boyfriend.”
“Do you have a problem with that?” she taunts.
I sweep her beneath me, and her face brightens. She’s so fucking beautiful, and her eyes are clearer. “I don’t have a problem with that, but you might when women start flocking around me and you have to get in a catfight to keep them off your man.”
“I’ve got strong claws. I can handle them.” She winds her arms around me.
“I know you can. The question is, can you handle me?” I press my hips forward and kiss her. “I take my trophy-boyfriend office-visit responsibilities very seriously.”
“What responsibilities are those?”
“Ensuring you enjoy all the benefits of having a trophy boyfriend in your office.”
“This is sounding better by the second. What benefits might those be?”
“There are many. Like helping you polish your desk.” I brush my lips over hers, whispering, “While I fuck you from behind.” I push her shirt up, baring her breasts, and tease her nipples with my tongue and teeth, earning a sexy gasp.
“That’s quite a benefit.”
I nip at her earlobe. “I aim to please.”
“What other benefits might I enjoy?”
“Shining your office chair with my ass as you ride my cock.” I grind against her, and she moans.
“I’ll be a big help to you while you’re working at your desk.
” I kiss the corner of her mouth. “On my knees in front of your chair.” I tease her other nipple with my tongue, and she moans.
“Sliding your panties off.” I rock my rigid cock against her and slide my tongue along her lower lip.
“Teasing you with my mouth until you’re so wet and needy, you beg me to fuck you. ”
Her eyes flame. “I think I might need a preview.”
I lower my lips to hers in a deep, passionate kiss, and then I give her a preview, the main event, and a grand finale, followed by the best fucking encore she’s ever had. Twice .