“Like a magic wand.” He rolled us so he was on his back and I was tucked into his side. He let out a content sigh. It was how I felt, which was strange. I had no job. I had no clue what I should do about a job, and yet, all was right and well with the world. Of course, when we left this bed, that might change. Eli might have a problem, although he seemed to be less of an asshole for the last few days.
“I went to see Eli before I came here,” Nick said, as his fingers stroked my hair.
“Oh? Eli first?”
He turned his head to look at me. His expression suggested he was worried he’d done something wrong. “I wanted to tell him, up front this time, that I love his sister. I don’t know that it would make any difference, but I figured maybe I’d get it right this time.”
My heart went all mushy again at the sweetness of this man. “How did he take it?”
“He didn’t kick my ass.” He pulled me to him kissing my head. “Actually, he didn’t seem surprised.”
“That’s because he knows I love you.”
“He does?” Nick looked surprised by that.
“He and my dad do because I told them. We took a trip to visit my mom’s grave. It was like she was there and we resolved some things. Or at least we settled down a bit. Eli and I can be pretty bad to each other.”
“I told Eli about the day your mom died when he came to my place the night I left. I probably should have done that sooner, but he was so angry.”
“He wouldn’t have heard it then or he’d have blamed you more. He’s jealous. I’m jealous,” I admitted.
“Jealous?” he asked.
“You got to be with her. I’m glad you were. I’m glad she had someone who loved her with her, but I'd rather it was me or Eli, or my dad, although he’d say he’s glad he just has good memories.”
He laughed. “Your dad is amazing. The way the glass is always half-full.”
“I know. Even when it’s a tiny shot glass.” I ran a hand over Nick’s chest. “I know you said not to go back, but … I’m a glutton for punishment.”
“Okay.” His voice was hesitant.
I lifted my head from his chest to look at him. “While we were apart, was there ever another woman you loved.”
“It’s only been a week.”
I rolled my eyes. “I meant four years ago.”
“No.” He said it so fast I couldn’t believe he’d actually heard me.
“Honestly. It’s okay if you did—”
“I didn’t. Not love. Did I sleep with a few women—”
“A few?” I quirked my brow. Nick’s reputation was well established.
He gave me a sheepish smile. “I had urges. I dated a few women, but I never fell in love. Not like this. Not like with you. So, I gave up trying.”
“Gave up on love but not urges?” I quirked a brow.
“My dick has a mind of its own. With you here, my dick and heart are completely in sync.”
I laughed. “You’re hilarious, Foster.”
“Now it’s your turn. Did you fall in love with someone else?”
I shook my head. “I had … affection for someone, but not like this.”
“I hate him. The idea of another man touching you makes me crazy.”