“Couldn’t you have just gone to a sex shop?”
“I can’t go into a sex shop!”
“Goddess, you really are sheltered. Yes, I can do this favor,” he replied, suddenly smirking. “But I want a detailed play-by-play of you using it in return. I’d also accept being able to watch.” I widened my eyes in shock at what he was asking. “I’m kidding! You should have seen your face. I’ll get it for you without anything expected in return.”
“And make sure it’s quiet.”
He shook his head. “Luke’s a fucking idiot.”
“Thank you for being so understanding and nonjudgmental,” I said.
“Hey, it’s no problem. Friends?” He wrapped his arms around me. I put my head against his chest, which was currently soaked in sweat. I didn’t even care. I just liked the feeling of being close to him, a warmth from him I couldn’t explain.
After I went home, I couldn’t help but want to press Luke some more, hoping he wouldn’t leave me in this awkward limbo I was currently in. Maybe he could at least give me a timeline for how long he would take to make his final decision. As much as this was torture, a part of me hoped he wouldn’t decide too soon. I wasn’t ready to be rejected outright by him. I knew deep within me that it would tear me apart.
After hesitating for several minutes, I finally texted him.
Me: Hey, Luke, any chance we can meet and talk today?
Luke: Yes, we should talk. Come to the packhouse after five. We’ll be the only ones here
Me: Ok, see you then
Chapter 27
Jasmine
Atfivethatevening,I told my parents that Madison had invited me over for dinner. My mom rolled her eyes but didn’t stop me as I left the house. I drove over to the packhouse and noted Luke’s silver Toyota 4Runner was the only car parked in the packhouse lot when I arrived. I took a few deep breaths, feeling a tightness in my chest as I approached the front door, not knowing what to expect. My hand was practically shaking as I rang the doorbell, but I did my best to hold myself together.
Moments later Luke let me in, welcoming me with his enchanting scent. I inhaled deeply, having almost forgotten how amazing he smelled. My stomach fluttered, and I couldn’t help but smile widely, taking in his handsome face. He smiled back at me, showing off his perfect white teeth. He pulled me into a hug to greet me as sparks danced across my entire body, putting me instantly at ease. When he pulled away, he asked, “Can I give you a tour?”
“It’s okay, I already had one,” I replied.
“From whom?” He looked surprised, his eyebrows raised.
“Blake.”
“Blake brought you here before?”
“I came over a couple months ago, and he showed me around.”
“I didn’t know you guys hung out.”
“We’re just friends.”
“That’s news to me.” Although he said this with a poker face, I could sense he seemed irritated. I found myself exceptionally perceptive to his emotions, as if they were being emitted from his body. “Well, how about we go sit down in the living room.” I followed him over to the couch, where he gestured for me to sit. “Can I get you a drink? I’m going to make one for myself. I think it will make the conversation easier.”
“Okay,” I replied, agreeing that alcohol was a good idea in this situation. I could sense his nervousness and it was intensifying my anxiety. Yes, alcohol was a necessity tonight.
“Is red wine okay? I’ll open a bottle.” He rubbed his neck, shifting a bit on his feet. Yes, he was definitely nervous.
“Sure, red wine would be great.” He nodded and walked out of the room. Moments later, he reemerged, balancing a bottle of red wine, a wine opener, and two wine glasses. He pulled out a couple of coasters and placed the wine glasses on top of them. He proceeded to open the bottle of wine and pour a generous glass for each of us.
Once he placed the bottle down on the coffee table, he sat down next to me and took a sip. I followed his lead and did the same. He turned to me and sighed. I stared at him, wondering if I should say something. Finally, he spoke.
“Goddess, you smell amazing. I can barely even concentrate on what I want to say with how good you smell.”
“Thanks, you smell good as well,” I replied, delighted with the compliment from him. Maybe things between us would work out. I felt myself relax a little, taking another sip.