“You wanna go grab a bite to eat or something?” I hold onto my jacket that she’s wearing, pulling her in close so I can wrap my arms around her. “You’re shivering.” I press my lips to her forehead waiting for an answer.
“I think I had better go home and get some sleep. I have to be back here tomorrow around seven and I promised Jimmy I’d take him to see Santa. You should come with us. That is if you want to.”
“I’ll let you know. Call me before you leave.”
“I will.” Her body trembles against mine and there are so many things I want to say to her, but I hold back, not wanting to push too hard too soon.
“Goodnight, Lissa. Drive safe.”
“You too.” She squeezes me and goes to hand my jacket back.
“Keep it. I have another one. I don’t want you without a jacket.”
“I’m fine,” she argues, teeth chattering.
“Don’t fight me on this, stubborn ass. Let me take care of you and don’t go telling me you can take care of yourself. I know you can.”
“I was going to say thank you.” She grins up at me and I cup her face between my hands.
“You’re welcome,” I breathe the words onto her lips and she closes the gap between us. Her lips, soft and sweet press against mine then quickly pull away. The moment ends far too soon for my liking but it’s a start in the right direction.
“I should go,” she whispers.
“You should but I don’t want you to,” I confess, meaning it.
“Bye.” She backs into the door and I follow her.
“Bye.” I crash my mouth down on hers not waiting for permission or an invitation. Kissing her just feels right. Sweeping my tongue in tandem with hers I kiss her long and deep. Her arms circle my neck and I press her up against the cold metal of the car wanting more but not demanding it tonight. She knows I want to be with her and I know deep down part of her wants it too. I think she’s scared to take a chance, but I’m brave enough for the two of us.
I pull back and rest my forehead against hers again. “That was some kiss,” she tells me. Her warm cinnamon breath washes over me and I peck her lips once more.
“Call me tomorrow.”
She nods. “Mhmm.”
Chapter 7
—Melissa
I get into my car feeling a bit dizzy. I wasn’t expecting to kiss Shawn tonight, but the moment felt right. MaryAnn was right. Life is too short not to be taking chances. I know Shawn wants to be with me and part of me…that lost part of me that I keep hidden away only feels whole with him. My protector. My shelter from any storm. Who says I can’t embrace those feelings but take things slow. My insides were screaming at me to take him home with me. Jimmy is staying at MaryAnn’s and I could kick myself for not taking the opportunity. Who knows when Jimmy will be staying overnight somewhere again.
I go home and after taking a shower, I am still thinking about calling Shawn and inviting him over. Grazing my bottom lip with my teeth, I take my phone out.
Melissa — Are you awake?
Shawn — Yes…laying here thinking about those sweet lips.
I smile while reading his response.
Melissa — Where are you?
Shawn — Clubhouse. Why?
Melissa — Want some company?
Shawn — I’ll come to you.
Melissa — I’ll be waiting. Door is unlocked.