Chapter 35
The ride back to Jaeger’s is silent, what with the bomb he dropped.
It took on nuclear proportions when he handed me a check for my portion of the commission—forty percent.
If he shocked me speechless with the carving, I almost passed out when he handed me the check.
Jaeger had to get me out of his client’s house quickly; my speech had degraded to mumbles and gasps.
Thousands of dollars sit in my sweaty little hand.
More than I made in two months working at Blue.
One or two commissions a year with Jaeger, plus my job at Sallee Construction, and I’d officially have a new and exciting career in art.
Of course, I couldn’t do the commissions without Jaeger.
His talent brings my drawings to life. Just like he brought my heart to life.
He has a pleased grin on his face as we make our way back to his house, and he’s flicking me glances now and then. He knows he’s shocked the hell out of me. Seeing my design beautifully displayed on someone’s wall is like winning the lottery. There is nothing better, except being with Jaeger.
I’ve turned into a corny, love-struck girlfriend.
I’m okay with that.
We pull down the long driveway to his house and my heart speeds up as his home comes into view. Near the front door is a brand-new white SUV. It’s not a luxury brand, but it’s new and my hackles go up. Another one of his female clients? A trick from Kate? Or one of her evil accomplices?
“Don’t worry,” Jaeger says as he scans my face. “That one’s supposed to be there.”
“Whose car is it?”
I was looking forward to some alone time with Jaeger so I could show him how much I appreciated his efforts with my drawing and helping my art career.
He is the best boyfriend in the world and I have plans for how to thank him.
Detailed, creative, body-art-type plans. Sort of like Twister, bedroom style.
“It’s yours.”
Huh? “What’s mine?”
“The car. I bought it for you, but really, it’s an investment in my peace of mind. I might have an aneurysm if I go one more day worrying about you and how you’re getting around.”
Normally, something like this would go against my whole I am an independent woman thing, but all I can do is smile.
No one should be dependent on someone else for their happiness, but this is not about coddling.
Jaeger loves me, and this is how he’s showing his love.
He’s worried about my safety and wants to take care of me.
The sentiment is mutual, because I want to take care of him too.
That’s a part of the loving business. I don’t feel trapped or dependent. I feel loved.
“You bought me a car.”
He nods.
I look at my pretty new vehicle. The sports utility aspect will come in handy. Good for Tahoe summers—and winters. “I love it,” I say, but I’m looking at him, the emotion he fills me with pouring out.
Jaeger leans over and we kiss, long and slow, merging all manner of feelings into one point of heated contact.
After a moment, I lift my head. “Thank you. For everything. Everything you’ve given me.” And I’m not referring to the car.
“You’ve given me more.”