Chapter 22
Marcus
Iliked Leanne. Until about two hours ago, when she stopped Lily from opening up to me.
She was about to be vulnerable, and the thought gives me a little hope that maybe she felt what I did that night.
I’ve tried my hardest to dampen the effect of being that intimate with Lily had on me, but ever since she got out of my car and walked up the steps to her apartment, all I’ve thought about is how I can get her to be with me again.
It can’t just be one night with her because that kind of connection is intoxicating; it’s raw and so damn perfect.
Having her here with me, here in my home country, makes me want to claim her.
When that reporter got in her face, all I wanted to do was scream that she’s mine and to back off.
But she can hold her own. She is powerful.
An unbelievable force who controls any space she’s in. She doesn’t need me or anyone else.
But I think I need her.
As soon as Leanne came back, she burst our bubble, Lily put those impressive walls back up, and her mask was firmly back in place for the rest of the afternoon.
I’ve never wanted to understand someone as much as I do her.
She has me well and truly hooked. But there’s something holding her back.
Something she doesn’t let just anyone know, because she doesn’t like to show weakness, and I can respect the hell out of that.
But I have this urge to be her safe place.
Her place, where she can let it all out and be vulnerable.
I tried to speak to her again when we were finally alone, knowing that she wouldn’t open up in front of just anyone, but she darted into her room as soon as we got back, and I haven’t heard from her since.
The early evening sun beats down on me from my spot on my balcony as I try to calm the noise in my head with a crossword, but the words and letters are just a jumbled mess. I throw the book and pen down on the glass table and stare out at the busy street below.
I’m a complete mess over a woman. Dios, my Papa will be proud.
Right, that man wouldn’t know a committed relationship if it bit him on the ass.
He has never settled down. It’s never been hidden from me that I was not planned, but I’ve always been loved.
Both my parents were present, but where Mama wanted the true happily ever after, Papa, however, would never settle, so they were never going to work.
They’re more like best friends now that they’re no longer together.
I’ve lived my life up until now just like him, but deep down I want a life more like Mama.
She’s happy with Paulo, and he worships her.
She was never a rich woman, but she was always happy.
Paulo runs a local shop, and while I was growing up, he worked hard to ensure we had everything we needed, and I love him for that.
But they don’t have to worry anymore, as I look after them, but they both still have jobs that they enjoy.
They’re ridiculously happy with the little things.
Papa is also happy in his own way. He has been on his own for so long that he’s comfortable with his own space and company.
I’m startled out of my thoughts when my phone vibrates in my pocket.
Harris - I’m hoping you can’t respond to this message because you’re too busy with a certain Miss Chambers, but I’m bored. Drinks?
I can’t escape this man. He was obviously picked as one of the starting eleven for England.
He’s the best the country has ever seen and currently snapping at the heels of the leading international goal scorers' record for England. So my best friend has traveled to Spain for the tournament and has decided to torture me like it’s his day job.
Marcus - Nope, just in my room.
Harris - Alone?
Marcus - Yes, alone.
Harris - You’re slipping, man. You’re completely off your game.
Marcus - I’m not. I’m just busy.
Harris - Like that would ever stop you.
Harris - So, drinks or will you be seducing Miss Chambers this evening?
I start to type out a reply when I hear Lily’s faint voice float in through the open balcony door. She’s agitated, and there’s a slight note of anxiety in her tone. So, like the creeper I am, I strain to listen.
“I know you’ve told me she’s okay, Beck, but I need to see her for myself. You know how I get.” I frown slightly because who is she so concerned about. Her tone is full of worry, and I can almost envisage her pacing, running her fingers through that beautiful mane of red hair of hers.
“Can you get Jade to call me when she gets back?”
She’s quiet as she listens.
“Her and Hunter are okay again?” Her tone takes on a happier edge. “I knew they would work it out. Those two are so perfect for each other, it’s sickening.”
I really shouldn’t be listening. I go to stand. “Yes, Diaz is still alive. I’ve not killed him yet.” She giggles, and at the mention of my name, I halt. I know I said I shouldn’t be listening, but I never said I was a saint.
“Pass me on to Trixie, please. Why? Girl talk, you idiot.” The best sound comes from her as she laughs.
Full on belly laughs at whatever her friend has said, and the sound fills me with warmth.
“You want to know about my menstrual cycle, Becky Boy?” She laughs again.
“Didn’t think so, put her on, you fool.”
I think this is definitely my time to leave. Gripping the arms of the chair, I stand and ping off a message to Harris.
Marcus - I’ll see you in ten at Salsa Sensations.