We’re snuggling because we have to. If we don’t, one of us will literally fall off the bed. Hunter’s huge, which means he can’t help but take over two-thirds of the small mattress.
Climbing in, I pull the sheet over us and melt into his body. He brings one arm down and wraps it around me, holding me closer. I rest my hand on his chest, and we try to fall asleep glued together.
“Hunter,” I whisper after a while. His heartbeat has been steady and his breaths even, so I’m shocked when he answers.
“Yes?” he asks softly.
Tilting my head up, I look at him, and when he gazes down at me, I smile. “Thank you again for today. Pretty sure my parents fell in love with you.”
His body tenses for a split second before he responds, “It’s obvious they want the best for you, so I’m happy to play the part.”
I blink up at him, the moon giving just enough light for me to see his face. Hunter’s features are relaxed, which sends warmth down my body. Being this close should feel uncomfortable and awkward, but it makes that lonely feeling evaporate, even if only temporarily.
“Are you comfortable?” I ask, realizing he’s shifted over to give me room.
“I’m fine.”
Sitting up, I look at my side and compare it to his. “If we spoon, we’ll both have more space.”
Hunter’s throat moves, and his jaw noticeably tenses. “Whatever you want.”
I roll my eyes, knowing he’s trying hard to keep boundaries between us. I understand the guilt he feels, but we need to set that aside for the time being.
“It’s just me and you, Hunter. Remember? No history or past,” I remind him, repeating my words from the night before. The weight of the guilt feels heavy on my chest, but it’s the only way we’re going to get through this without it consuming us. He says I’ll always be Brandon’s girlfriend, and even if that’s how he sees me, it’s no longer the reality.
I don’t wait for him to respond before turning on my other side. A moment passes before he finally shifts his weight, and his body curls around mine. Wiggling closer to him, I grab his hand and wrap it around my belly. Our legs mold together, and we both finally have enough room to breathe.
“You okay?” I ask after a few minutes.
“I’m regretting not bringing that cup with me,” he teases.
“Hey! I can’t even kick you in this position,” I defend, laughing.
Then I hear him growl. Against my ear.
Holy hell. It sends shivers down my spine as I wait for his response.
“That’s not what I’m gonna need it for.”
“Huh?” It takes me a good five seconds to put the pieces together. “Oh.”
“Good night, Lennon,” he says, tightening his hand around my belly as if he’s protecting me and the baby.
“Night, Hunter.”
Sleep comes quick and easy, but when my alarm goes off, I curse at my phone. Motherfucker. Seven in the morning came too soon, but if we don’t want to be late, it’s rise ’n’ shine time.
“Ugh.” I hit snooze and slowly start shifting.
“For the love of God, stop moving.”
My eyes pop open at Hunter’s words, his breath brushing against my cheek. It’s then I notice our compromising position. My butt fits directly against his groin, and one of my legs are between both of his.
“What’s wrong?” I ask, swallowing hard.
“You were wiggling your ass against my dick.”
The blood drains from my face, and I feel heat rush between my legs. Oh, my God.
“Uh, sorry. I didn’t mean to.”
Hunter moves his hand to my hip and slides his other arm out from under me. I adjust my leg, so he can free himself.
Once I feel his weight shift, I sit up on the edge of the bed. “Did you sleep okay?” I look at him over my shoulder, but can only see his back and messy bedhead.
“Mmhmm,” is all the response I get before he stands and walks to his suitcase. He grabs his clothes, then goes to the door. “I’m gonna shower first. Is that okay?”
When he finally looks at me, I notice the pained expression on his face. We were definitely too close last night, but I’d be lying if I said it didn’t feel good. Too good.
Remorse hits me hard and fast. I hate how I can’t get ahold of my emotions when it comes to Hunter, and I need to. There’s no denying I miss having someone close to me, someone hold me, to touch and kiss me. Brandon and I were together for two years and losing that has been worse than a painful breakup because there’s no chance of closure.
Hunter makes me feel things, and I don’t know if it’s because I miss Brandon and I’m projecting them onto him or if it’s something else completely. I’m confused and feel so lost.