Whatever It Takes (Bold As Love 3)

“May I speak with you outside,” I ask calmly.

“Sure,” Kyle replies.

We step outside and he follows me to the alleyway on the side of the building. I swiftly turn on my heel and face him.

“Stay away from my girlfriend.”

The arrogant bastard has the nerve to laugh.

“That's it?”

I throw my fist which connects with his jaw. Kyle staggers a few steps backwards.

“That was for kissing Emily when

she clearly didn't want it.”

Kyle stands up straight and smirks.

“From the way she kissed back, I doubt that she didn't want it.”

My hand grabs his shoulder and I throw a punch to his gut. Only, Kyle was able to right hook me seconds before. I hit him once more in the gut before backing away.

“Leave her alone,” I tell Kyle's hunched over body.

Turning, I walk away. My schedule returns to normal. I wish I could go straight home after practice, but work calls. On the way to work, I call Emily to see if Kyle has been around today.

“No. I saw him earlier, though. His lip was busted.”

Emily waits for me to explain that it was I who gave him that busted lip. I'm not giving anything up.

“Really? That's odd. Wonder what he got himself into.”

“Jake,” Emily begins.

“Sweetness, I'm at work now. I'll talk to you later. I love you.”

Emily sighs and I can't help but smile. “I love you too. Oh, and wipe that smile off of your face.”

“Yes ma'am.”

I hang up and get to work.

Back at home, Emily is already in bed. I kiss her forehead before going to shower. I'm as quiet as possible since my Sweetness is sleeping. Working late, I didn't expect her to wait up for me, but part of me wishes she had. It's a wonderful feeling to know that when I come home from a long day someone is waiting up for me.

I want to see those beautiful brown eyes and her smile. Even if it's just a sleepy smile. I want to share with her about my day and learn about hers.

I turn the shower off and the cool air surrounds my wet body as I open the stall door. Stepping out of the shower, I grab a towel from the counter and dry off. I step into my pajama pants and brush my teeth. The water seems extra cold in my mouth as I swish. I spit and wipe my mouth. Darkness envelopes me when I flip the switch.

My eyes take a moment to adjust and I can faintly make out Emily's figure in the bed. Slowly, I walk over, turn back the covers, and climb in beside her. Once comfortable, Emily turns around.

“Hey,” she whispers as her hands run up my chest.

“Hey, Sweetness. How was your day?”

“Fine. How was yours after you punched Kyle three times?”

Her tone carries a serious note even in a whisper.