Chapter 20
When Riley is finally tucked in—teeth brushed, pajamas on, covers up to her chin, and her favorite bedtime story read—I hurry back downstairs to spend what little remains of the evening in Derek’s company. Alone. I’ve had my fair share of dates over the years, but Mrs. Duran was always on hand to take Riley for a few hours or overnight if I needed some privacy. It’s going to take me awhile to get used to her not being around.
The living room is quiet, the TV off, and Derek has turned off all the lights but one lamp on the far end of the couch, away from where he waits for me. As I enter the room, I see him in the low, golden glow, and feel a heaviness sink into my groin, my blood warming in anticipation. “Finally,” I murmur, crossing to where he sits.
“Is she asleep?” He take
