I put the lid back on and slide it under the bed as my phone dings again.
Tasha: What did you find? Is the perfect boyfriend not so perfect anymore?
Me: Still perfect.
I walk into the kitchen and open the fridge. I already know what’s in there, and it isn’t going to be anything good. I don’t have anything at my place either since Bear and I have been cuddled up in our apartments for almost a week now.
The media was long gone after they got what they wanted. They know who I am now, and I realized just how famous Bear really was. The media had been nicer than I thought they would be. Or maybe they were scared of Bear. They left soon after we talked to them, answering most of the questions they asked. When someone shouted a question about our sex life, Bear shut it all down.
I should have known better about the box under the bed now that I think about it. I remember one of the reporters mentioning Bear never being spotted with a girlfriend before. I like being the first for him in so many ways. When he told me he was a virgin, too, I wasn’t able to pick my jaw up off the floor. But then knowing how disciplined he can be, I could totally see it.
My stomach grumbles, reminding me that I need food. Not just any food but something sugary and full of butter. Bear won’t be home for a few more hours. I grab my bag and text Bear on my way out the door.
Me: Grabbing a quick bite. I’ll be back before you get home. I can’t stay locked up forever!
I know he’ll worry if I don’t text. I walk out the door and hop on the elevator.
Bear: Be careful, doll face. I can take you out tonight if I’ve kept you away from the rest of the world for too long.
Me: You love keeping me all to yourself.
I’ll never complain about spending my nights in bed with my Bear. It’s been the best week of my life. I haven’t gotten much done, but when I think about how happy I am, it’s hard to care.
Bear: You bet I do.
I step off the elevator and see the doorman. I give him a small wave and he nods back as he picks up his phone. I know he’s probably calling Bear to let him know I’m leaving the building. I can’t even be mad at the guy after I got him in trouble with the jerk I’d told him to let up. It wasn’t long after everything went down the media uncovered a history of unsavory things about that guy. It makes me sick that I was ever near him.
When I exit I’m happy to not see anyone outside with a camera. Bear told me they all cleared out, but I thought maybe one might pop up. It’s beautiful outside and I’m enjoying the sunshine. It makes me miss home a little. Having a house with a yard and some space was so nice. It’s great to live in the city with everything outside your door, but there’s something to be said about the privacy of having your own land. In my dreams I’d like to have both one day.
I wave at Patty as I pass her bakery. I want to walk a little more because the weather is so nice. I go up a couple more blocks and pause when I see a coffee shop. Looking in the window I spot a display for brunch. Perfect.
When I step inside I glance around and wish I’d brought a book or something. The place is nice, with lots of places to sit and hang out. It’s not too packed, so I walk over and look at the menu, taking my time before ordering.
When I get my food I sit down on one of the sofas and I look through my phone.
“How is it?” I glance over to see a man sitting down at the other end of the sofa. He’s big but not as big as my Bear. I can’t help comparing everyone to him. This guy has short blond hair with dark blue eyes and he smiles at me.
“Not bad,” I say, being polite.
“It’s such a nice day,” he says, nodding to the window and the sunshine.
“It really is.” I look out thinking about how hard Bear is training. I can’t wait for his final fight to be over so we can enjoy days like today. He keeps telling me about all this free time and the fun things we’re going to do. I sigh happily.
“Gio,” says the guy, and when I look back up he’s got his hand out.
“Pepper, but everyone calls me Pep,” I say, taking his hand. He seems nice enough, and he’s not giving off any creepy vibes.