Chapter 16: Penthouse Cont.
312 Words
His voice is softer now, raw with emotion he’s never let anyone see. “Because I’m terrified too.” He kisses me slow, tender, completely different from moments ago. When he breaks away, he rests his forehead against mine. He threads his fingers through my hair, gentle now. His other hand finds mine, lacing our fingers together against his chest where his heart still pounds. “The difference is, we’re scared together.” He shifts, carefully withdrawing but keeping me close. He pulls his shirt over my head- warm, smelling like cedar & him. “Stay tonight.” Not a question. A need. “Let me hold you,” “Let me prove this is real.” A simple yes is my response. Relief floods his features-pure and unguarded. He pulls me closer cradling me against his chest. “Thank you”. The words are barely audible. I take the chance to take in my surroundings. His bedroom is all dark wood & floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the glimmering city. He gets up and disappears into the bathroom. When he returns he has a warm cloth that he uses to clean me up with surprising tenderness. His hands shake slightly- the CEO facade completely stripped away. “Who told you I never bring anyone here?” He asks. I’m truthful. “Sarah did.” “I mean she’s your personal assistant, she knows everything.” “We’re going to have to tell her.” He climbs into bed pulling me against him until I’m tucked beneath his chin. His heartbeat steadies beneath my palm. His fingers trace lazy patterns on my spine. “We’ll worry about that later.” “Right now, sleep Ash.” “I’ve got you.” I yawn & settle next to him. His arms tighten once more-like he’s anchoring himself to something he thought he’d never have.
- Writer
