Wicked Dirty (Stark World 2)

"Nope." His grin is so wide I'm certain that I'm missing something. "I invented it. The idea is to find celebrities with fucked up childhoods and, basically, to make their pasts public. To the world, but mostly to the kids. So that they realize they're not alone."

"Lyle..." Tears spill down my cheeks. "That's such an incredible idea."

"I hoped you'd think so. I'm not doing it for you--or for us--but I can't deny that I hoped you'd understand just how much it means for me to do this."

"I do," I say, rising as he bends forward, capturing me in the kind of kiss that has my toes curling and my senses firing.

When we break the kiss, I'm breathing hard, and as Skittles starts to rub against my ankles, I take Lyle's hand, fully intending to lead him to my bedroom and have my way with him.

"Wait," he says. "There's one more thing. These last few days have been hell without you. I don't want to do that again. One day, I fully intend to give you back that ring. But right now, I'm asking if you want to live together. Because I don't want to be without you for another minute."

"Yes." I feel like I'm going to burst. "Absolutely, yes." My smile is so wide it hurts. Then I think about the logistics, and my smile fades. "It will have to be your condo, though. I'll be losing this place soon." I sigh. "I'm going to miss it so much. The house. The neighborhood. The beach."

"Actually, I think we'd rather live in my house. I can keep the condo as an office."

"You have a house?" How did I not know that?

"I just bought it, actually."

"I don't suppose it has an ocean view," I say wryly.

"Only from the roof, but it's walking distance."

"Really? Where is it?"

"Close," he says. "You want to see it?" He takes my hand, then leads me to the door.

"We can walk there?"

"Easily."

"Um, okay." I know the neighborhood pretty well, and I don't remember a house being for sale. But then again, I've been a

little distracted lately.

We walk to the gate, and as soon as we reach the sidewalk, he says, "Here we are."

I look at him, confused, then see that he's staring back at my house.

Now I'm even more confused.

"I don't understand," I admit.

"Your father wanted the equity. So I bought his share. I was hoping you wouldn't mind being co-owners. What with me being in love with you and all."

"No," I say, trying desperately not to cry as I fling myself into his arms and hold him tight, this man who loves me. Who takes care of me. And who I love with all my heart. "I really don't mind at all."

* * *

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

The Stark Children's Foundation and SCF Youth Advocate Lyle Tarpin are pleased to announce that yesterday marked the final day of shooting for M. Sterious, next summer's installment in the Blue Zenith universe of films.

The day, however, was about more than just the wrapping of the film. It was also about the children whose lives have been touched by the SCF, as well as by the volunteers and donors who have given so generously of their time and money.

As a special treat, over fifty past and present recipients of SCF services and grants were present during the final day's shoot and at the wrap party that followed on the studio back lot.

The entire cast attended the party, and each child was presented with a package of signed memorabilia.