Brooklyn
“Have you always been so dominant in bed?”
I rest my back against Tyler in the deep soaker tub. The essential oils and lavender candle attempt to relax my worn-out body.
“No, I don’t think so,” his voice rumbles against my back. “I haven’t been with someone who made me feel comfortable expressing that side of myself.”
“Why me?”
He runs his fingertips up my bare arms, sending a tingle down my body.
“Something about you just lets me be free. I think because you’re so strong and capable, it makes me want to do it more. It probably sounds toxic or completely fucked up. I can’t explain it, but knowing you don’t need me or any man is a turn-on. You’re choosing me.”
“You have no idea how good it feels to hear you say that in a positive way.”
“What do you mean?”
“That was always an argument or an issue for me in the past. I’ve never wanted to feel like I’m an obligation to someone—like they’re with me because they married me or we have a child or a house together. I want to feel wanted, to be chosen. So I always figured my ex felt that way, too, but it actually made him feel incredibly insecure that I didn’t need him for financial stability or anything like that.”
“That can be hard for a man, I won’t lie. We want to feel needed and wanted, like we’re an asset.”
I turn around to face him. “I do need you. And I want you more than anything, honestly.”
“I know you do, baby, and I’m not worried about it. What we have is special—different from anything I’ve ever experienced with anyone else. I think that’s why I’m so sure.”
I feel the butterflies again, but they’re mixed with unease because I have yet to deal with the Neal drama. I promised myself I would call my family and explain things, but I’ve just been too afraid to ruin this cloud of elation I’ve been floating around on with Tyler.
“Which is why I want you to come to my family Thanksgiving . . . as my girlfriend.”
I smile but then the unease grows heavier. He must sense it.
“Is it too soon?”
“No, no, not too soon at all. I’m honored and would love to go with you.” I smile, and this time, it’s just the butterflies. “I’m excited but incredibly nervous,” I laugh.
“Trust me, you have nothing to be nervous about. According to Trent, everyone from here to Montana can pick up on the chemistry between us, and my mom even chimed in about it.”
“Celeste?” My hands come up and clamp over my mouth. “So your mom knows I’m sleeping with her son?” I try to submerge myself beneath the bubbles, but Tyler grabs my arms.
“Trust me, they have no idea about the things I do to you, and we’re going to keep it that way.”
My laughter is replaced with nervousness again. “You sure nobody will question me working for the brewery and dating you?”
“Well, I didn’t hire you, and I didn’t ask you to be the face of Slade Brewing. I guess we could tell them you seduced me into doing it.” He laughs and I splash water at him. “Seriously, baby, nobody will think you’re being unprofessional. Besides,” he pulls me back against him and nips at my earlobe, “you’re never getting away. You’re mine. Forever.”
I pacemy bedroom nervously as the phone rings for the fifth time. Finally, my mom picks up.
“Hello?”
“Hey, Mom, it’s me.”
“Brooklyn, sweetie, how are you? Your father was just saying how it won’t feel the same without you here this year.”
“I know, Mom. I’ll miss you guys.”
“I just don’t understand. If it’s about the money, your father and I will gladly buy you a ticket home. I just hate thinking of you all alone on a holiday, eating mac and cheese in your apartment.”
I let out a breath. “Well, that’s kind of why I’m calling. I know I texted you guys a few days ago letting you know I won’t be home, but, uh, I’m not going to be alone out here.”