Chapter Nine
He cupped her face and caressed her cheeks with his thumbs. “Baby, we have to stop before this gets out of hand.”
“But…”
“No, pet. It’s too soon for where this is headed. I’m not going anywhere, and you can kiss me whenever you want. But for now, that’s all we’ll do.”
She thought about it for a moment and then nodded. She couldn’t believe how disappointed she was but at the same time understanding what he was saying.
“Okay.”
“Good.” He pressed a quick kiss to her lips before taking her hand and pulling her along behind him. “I made steak and baked potatoes. How does that sound?”
“Yummy.”
He led her to the table that was already set.
“Go ahead and sit, pet. I’ll be right back.”
“Can I help with anything?”
He shook his head. “No. It’s all ready. I’m just getting the plate from the warmer.”
Her eyes widened at the huge steaks and potatoes he set on the table in front of her.
He chuckled. “Just eat what you can.”
He slid one of each onto her plate and then moved the butter and sour cream to her.
They had taken a few bites when he cleared his throat. “I’ve talked to both Lacey and your aunt. They are both relieved that you are doing well and want to see you when you feel up for it.”
“Tonight?”
“No, it’s too late for that, pet. Your aunt’s visiting hours stop at five, and Lacey is out with Cason. But definitely tomorrow. We can call your aunt tonight, though. Your nap lasted longer than I thought it would, but I’m glad because you needed the rest.”
“Okay. Thank you.”
“Would you like a bath tonight before bedtime?”
“Oh, my gosh, yes.”
He laughed. “All right, a bath it is. Lacey sent some things down for you to wear tomorrow, and other things like bubble bath.”
She clapped. “She’s so sweet.”
“Yes, she is.” He smiled. “Finish up. I want us in bed early.”
She set her fork down. “Will I be able to sleep with you?”
His hand paused as he raised the glass to take a drink. “I’m not sure that’s….”
“Please. I feel safe with you.”
“All right. How about we watch a movie in bed before we fall asleep?”
“Yes!”
He chuckled.
They finished and cleaned up their meal.
Devon grabbed her hand. “Let’s get that bath ready.”
“I hope you’re going to take one with me.” Part nervousness and part excitement filled her at the thought of seeing him naked. “God, I can’t wait to be able to touch him.” Her fingertips practically tingled.
He snorted.
“Oh, God, I said that last part out loud, didn’t I?”
“Yes. I also want to touch you very much, but we have to wait.”
“So, no bath for you?” she asked in disappointment.
He smiled. “Not tonight.”
“Oh.”
He released her hand and bent to start the water in the tub. After it was the right temperature, he added the bubbles. She got excited as they grew, overtaking the top of the water.
“I’m going to put your hair up. We’ll wash it in the morning.”
“That’s okay. It takes a long time to dry.”
“Let’s get the shirt off.”
She clutched the material in her fists. “Wait…”
“Baby, you can’t get in the tub with the shirt on. Remember, I’ve already seen you naked. Besides, we have to keep your bandage dry, so I’ll have to help bathe you.”
She slowly released the shirt and then stood stiffly and let him unbutton it. He slipped it off her and threw it in the laundry basket.
“All right, let’s get you in.”