Chapter 38
38
Working the register at Misty’s store, I grumble for the millionth time how dumb of an idea it was to leave Jack an audio. He probably didn’t even listen to it. Lainey swears if I stay patient, it will be worth it, but that’s big talk coming from the least patient person I know.
Doing everything I can to not think about it, I agreed to work with Misty in her boutique. She offered to show me the day-to-day operation of running a store and is even willing to give me first right of refusal when she finally lets the place go. It’s an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.
My father was pissed to learn I was working as a glorified shopgirl but after everything that went down and what he said to me, I don’t care. It’s been a long time since he supported me, financially or otherwise. I think I was holding on to hope that he would one day be the dad I needed, but that ship sailed long ago. Until he can treat me with the respect I deserve, our contact will be minimal.
Deep in thought, I almost miss the bell chime above the door. “Hi welcome to—” I greet absentmindedly before peering up to see Jack. I freeze.
“Hi,” he replies, open smile on his face. “Cool place.”
“Um, thanks?”
“You wouldn’t happen to have any recommendations, would you?” He came here for recommendations? This is weird, but I’ll play along.
“Of course. Shopping for yourself or . . . ?” He smirks when he glances around to confirm we only sell women’s clothing. If he’s going to play, I’m going to play.
“Not for me. It’s for a girl.”
“I see. What can you tell me about her?”
“Hmm, well, she’s on the taller side with these gorgeous long legs that perfectly wrap around my waist and shoulders. She has light blonde hair that reminds me of a woodland fairy with a sweet personality to match.” I nod along as he describes me, pretending to browse our selection.
“What else?”
“She has an obsession with voodoo chips and has a tendency for violence if you wake her up too suddenly. She loves making lists, and being organized, and when I press my thumb into her clit just right.” His smile morphs into a smirk at that before his eyes turn soft. “She’s smart and kind. Patient as hell. She’s the best thing I never knew I needed, but had all along.”
I suck in a breath at that sentiment. He did always have me. I think no matter what happens, he’ll always have a piece. Swallowing my emotion, I try to keep up with our pretense.
“You know, I don’t think we have what she needs here.”
“No?” he turns to me, gaze vulnerable and questioning.
“I think what she needs is you.”
“I think I need her, too.”
We both stand there, eyes locked on one another until his impatience wins out. Scooping me up in his arms and he brings his mouth to mine. Kissing me softly, he whispers, “Fuck, I missed you, Wildflower.”
“I missed you, too.” As if my admission breaks his thread of control, he grips the back of my head with one hand and tilts my mouth back up to his, plunging his tongue inside.
“Did you like your present?” I ask, heaving for air when he finally pulls away.
“No. Cut out Lainey is creepy as hell,” he replies. “And being able to hear your voice but not actually having you was pure torture. I want you in my house. In my bed. On my couch. Everywhere. My world was bleak without you in it. Don’t make me go through that again.”
“Don’t make me leave.”
“Never,” he whispers as a vow. “I’m sorry for not giving you the benefit of the doubt. For not giving you the chance to explain. For not making sure you knew in no uncertain terms that what we had was forever.”
“I want that, too.”
“Good. Because now that I know you love me, I’m never letting go.”
“You’re going to have to if any customers come in.” I laugh.
“Can’t I just buy the store? Then I could do whatever I want.”
“You could but you’ll have to beat me to it.”
Leaning back until we are eye to eye, he gives me a curious expression. “It seems we have a lot to discuss.”
“I’d say so.”
“Alright, future Ellie. Lay it on me.” And I do.