Heat spread down their bodies, and DeAndre grabbed her chin, drawing her closer, devouring her mouth.
It was no secret that he was gentle with her most times, and Avery knew why. She was determined when they connected again to ensure it was the pure unadulterated inhibition she loved when he loved her.
They drifted apart slowly, their eyes settling over one another.
“Say a prayer with me, love.” DeAndre grabbed her hands, and they dropped their heads as he prayed over their food.
Avery rested with him in that Holy space, and when he said Amen, she sucked in a breath and smiled. “Amen.”
They fixed each other’s plates simultaneously, glancing at one another, smirking, and blushing.
“You’re looking at me like you did when we first met,” DeAndre said.
They sat down and began eating.
“I thought I always looked at you this way.”
“You do. I didn’t mean anything less.”
Avery rubbed her lips together, her eyes dipping to her food, then looking back at DeAndre. “I know what you meant. It’s okay.”
DeAndre frowned. “What?”
“I’m not always well, so I rarely look at you with delight. I understand.”
“No.” DeAndre put his fork down. “I was merely flirting, beautiful. I honestly did not mean that at all.”
Avery nodded. “Okay.”
She could feel DeAndre’s gaze on her, and when she glanced up again, he was staring. “Is everything okay?”
Avery smiled. “Yes.”
Her assurance didn’t assure him. “What’s going on in that pretty head of yours?”
“Eat your food, and I’ll tell you.”
His succulent lips spread into a smile. “Deal.” DeAndre resumed eating, and they were both quiet for a minute, enjoying their meal.
“I want to take some classes.”
DeAndre took a sip of lemonade, washing down his food. “Classes are good. Do whatever your heart desires.”
Avery’s smile lifted. “Great, I’m glad you said so. I’m excited to start.”
“What will you be learning?”
“How to strip.”
DeAndre coughed and hit his chest as lemonade went down the wrong pipe.
“Oh my gosh, are you okay?”
His coughing fit continued, causing Avery to move from her seat to stand next to him and pat him on the back.
DeAndre cleared his throat, and his eyes watered.
“Baby, are you okay?” Avery asked again, concern in her eyes as she stared at him.