Needing You Close (Ex-Con Duet 2)

Moments later, his body convulses as he loses himself. I continue pumping him and don’t stop until his orgasm does. Tasting him again is something I’ve dreamed about for so damn long, and something I’ve only ever shared with him.

“You’re delicious,” I say, and I can see his pulse still racing in his neck when I stand and meet his eyes.

Tyler leans his forehead against mine. “You’re mine, Gemma. You understand that, right? I was stupid to ever let you go.”

“I won’t argue with any of that.” I beam, our mouths crashing together in a white-hot kiss. Though our bodies are clean, our actions were dirty and hot. I’m living for every moment I get to spend with him like this.

We step out of the shower, and Tyler takes his time drying me. It’s sensual and sweet, and my heart is full of adoration for this man. It seems like it’s too good to be true, and I keep waiting to wake up and find out it was a dream.

“Let’s order a pizza and snuggle on the couch,” I suggest, just wanting to be as close to him as I possibly can. “Or we could have sex until the sun rises.”

Tyler pulls me closer, tracing his lips with mine. “I don’t wanna rush things with you, Gemma. I’ve waited all this time to be with you, and I want it to last forever.”

My cheeks heat at his admission. “Same,” I whisper.

He paints my lips with his, and I don’t want the night to end. “I’m not letting you go this time, Gem. Now, let’s order that pizza.”

Chapter Thirteen

TYLER

I’ve had a permanent smile on my face since Wednesday when I told Gemma my true feelings, and I meant every word. Everleigh has called out my change in demeanor a dozen times, and Jerry’s even made a comment about my giddiness. Though we’re not announcing our relationship status to the world, it’s not being kept a secret either. It’s fun to give the whole damn town something to talk about.

I woke up fairly early this morning because I had a training session from six to nine. While I was tempted to wake Gemma before I left, I’ve kept her up late all week, so I didn’t. Instead, I told her to text me after she’s had a cup of coffee. Once I’m home and showered, she sends me a photo of her lying in her bed, hair disheveled, looking like a goddess.

Tyler: I’m so lucky.

Gemma: And why’s that?

Tyler: Because you’re my girl. What’re your plans today?

Gemma: Thought I’d lay around naked and wait for you to come over.

Tyler: You’re making this really hard.

Gemma: Well, if you’re hard, get over here ;)

I totally set myself up for that response.

Tyler: Get up. Eat breakfast. Put on some clothes because I’m taking you somewhere this afternoon.

Gemma: OOH! Where?

She always ruins her surprises.

Tyler: I’m not telling you, but dress to be outside until after dark.

Gemma: Okay! How much time do I have?

Tyler: I’m picking you up in 2 hours :)

Considering it’s the third week of October and the temperature has dropped significantly, I dress in a long-sleeve T-shirt and jeans. I even grab a light jacket because it’s been brisker at night. Before I leave, I take Sassy for a walk and think about hanging out with Gemma and creating new memories together. Once we’re back, I feed Sassy some dog treats, then head to the boutique to get Everleigh’s car.

Everleigh has the place decorated from head to toe in black and orange. Each corner has witches and wizards, the mannequins are skeletons, and spiderwebs dangle from the ceiling. She wanted to create a haunted house vibe with the music and sound effects. Every customer who enters is greeted by Cara, who’s dressed like a ghost and hands them bags of candy. Everleigh has outdone herself with the decorations, and it makes me chuckle. When she pops out from behind a mannequin wearing black lipstick, I pretend to be scared. “Got me!”

“Shut up, you didn’t even jump,” she says.

“Prison will do that to a person,” I remind her, and she shakes her head. “Keys, please?”

“I’ll give them to you under one condition only,” she teases.

I groan. “Walking Sassy was the only thing you asked. Anything else isn’t a part of the deal we made.”

“Oh well.” She shrugs. “I want you to bring Gemma by the shop so I can finally see you two together in public.” She dangles the keyring on her pointer finger. I try to swipe them from her, but she’s too fast. “Say you will…”

“Oh my God. You’re so annoying.”

“Uh-uh, promise me,” she continues, and I finally give in.

“Okay, fine. But we’re not staying long.”

She drops them in my palm. “Works for me.”

“You little shit,” I throw back before I turn on my heels.