Season's Greetings : Christmas Box Set

“Do you know what I think?” I shift the car in reverse and pull out the driveway.

“No, but I’m sure you’re going to tell me.”

“You like it, and that scares you. Anger is nothing but a smokescreen.”

When she doesn’t reply, I know I’ve hit a little too close to home.

ROMY

“Am I standing on Tie Fighters?” Caleb stares down at the blue houndstooth rug with the subtle Star Wars theme.

“I’m impressed you noticed.”

“I mean, the Kylo Ren head was a tip-off you were an undercover nerd.”

I gesture toward the coffee table with my head. “Oh, there’s nothing hidden about it.”

“You are officially the coolest woman I’ve ever met.” He bows down, waving his arms at me, and I can’t stop the smile from emerging.

“Whose turn is it for setting the bar low? A coffee table and a rug are all I needed to take first place.”

“I never said those two were the only reasons.”

Unsure how to respond as my heart beats a little faster, I do what I’m good at, deflect. “I think I’m ready for a bit of aspirin now. My head hasn’t stopped aching, and my body has joined in with an equally painful throbbing.” I want to shower, but I’m afraid I’ll have another dizzy spell. I would never live it down if Caleb had to rescue me once more.

“Nona packed some. You have a seat. I’ll unpack and bring you some with a bottle of water. It’s okay if you doze off while you wait. It’s almost time for our second check.”

“I love it when you torture me with light.”

“I could think of other ways.” His eyes darken.

I bite my bottom lip, curious about the multi-faceted man. “I’m usually a much better hostess, I swear.”

“Today is about me taking care of you.”

I like the words far more than I should. There will be no house tour or serving alcohol and snacks. I pointed out the kitchen and the bathroom downstairs. After a rest, I’ll show him to the guest room. The heat pumping through the house and the stillness lull me into a twilight.

“Romy.” The silken purr in my ear is so seductive it should be illegal. The sexy voice continues to whisper my name, coaxing me back to the waking world.

“Hmm.” I lift my heavy lids.

“It’s time for our hourly check.”

My mind spins a wicked scenario where his hand slips into my underwear and his big hands cups my butt cheek. Jerking from my fantasies, I sit up.

“I know it sucks. After this, you can go back to sleep.” He caresses my face with the backs of his fingertips. The warmth in my belly spreads.

“You sure you aren’t some kind of doctor?” I mumble

“Nope. Just a lawyer.”

“Of course you are.” I snort. “That’s how you managed to talk circles around me in the hospital, which is no simple feat.”

He shines the light in my eyes. I wince slightly.

“How do you feel?” He remains kneeling at my feet. The waning afternoon sunlight turns his black hair to obsidian. I want to test its softness.

“Sore and tired.”