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To pass the time, I’m scrolling through the web in search of recipe inspiration. I’ve been exceptionally productive today, and I already have my next three recipes planned. I don’t want to burn myself out, so I decide to take a break and check the local news site. Immediately, I wish I hadn’t, because the top headline is my worst nightmare.
SUSPECT IN HARVEY’S HOSTAGE SITUATION ESCAPED CUSTODY
Developing Story
Blood rushes in my ears, and I’m transported back to that day in an instant. I feel like I’m a captive in my own home, and without Michael here, I can’t help but think I’m vulnerable. Whatever progress I made in the last few weeks vanishes. I’m frozen.
After a few seconds, I shake myself out of my stupor to check the cameras. I’m thorough, staring at each room longer than I usually do. Then, when my breathing slows, I check the sliding door to my balcony is locked. I know it’s irrational to think someone would scale four stories to get to me, but after being taken hostage and having my life threatened by the assailant, I feel like there’s no such thing as being too careful.
Confident that I’m alone and safe within these walls, I sink back onto the couch and pull up my message thread with Michael. The most recent text must have come through when I was checking the balcony, and it contains only one sentence – a question.
Is everything okay?
His attentiveness brings a smile to my face. There’s no way he could have known I was freaking out, but somehow, he knew to check in on me. I consider telling him everything that I know about my captor’s escape and I’m worried about my own safety again. I don’t though, instead replying that I’m fine and can’t wait for him to get home from work. Less than thirty seconds later, he responds, ensuring me he’ll be back soon.
That message placates me even more than checking the cameras and the locks. I’m not sure what I would do if Michael hadn’t walked into my life. Even now, knowing I’m in danger again, having him here makes me feel calm in a way I didn’t know was possible. It feels like no matter how perilous the situation, he’ll protect me.
Michael gets to my place a few hours later, coming to check on me as soon as he kicks his shoes off. Worry radiates off of him, but it wanes the moment we make eye contact. He kneels in front of me, taking my face between his hands and looking at me like I’m something precious. I try to give him a reassuring smile, but it feels forced.
“What is it?” he asks, picking up on my unease.
“It’s silly,” I say dismissively, trying to be brave for him.
“I’m sure it isn’t,” he replies as he slides his hands down my neck, letting them come to rest on my shoulders. “Tell me what’s bothering you.”
I sigh before saying, “I think you already know.”
He’s a cop. I’m sure he was one of the first to know about the escaped convict.
“So, you’ve heard,” he murmurs, rubbing circles into the cardigan covering my body.
I nod, swallowing hard and saying, “It’s stupid, but I’m so worried he’s going to show up here and make good on his promise to kill me.”
“I’m going to keep you safe no matter what, okay?”
“Okay,” I reply, tears starting to blur my vision.
“If there’s anything, absolutely anything, I can do, you tell me, alright? I’ll make it happen.”
I pause, considering whether the next question I’m about to ask him is the right one. But it feels so right. To me, anyway, “Will you move in?” As soon as the words leave my mouth, I instantly regret it. I hate how small my voice sounds. It’s too soon. He must think I’m so pathetic.
“You mean I haven’t already moved in?” he says, squeezing my shoulders in a playful manner.
His answer comes instantly and completely takes me by surprise.
“I’d be happy to move my things in so I only have to leave for work.”
“Thank you,” I whisper. I throw my arms around his shoulders and wrap my legs around his waist, kissing him all over his beautiful face.
“Oh, It’s my pleasure, my sweet girl.”
Our eyes meet and his gorgeous face is beaming right at me. I rub my thumb along his lips. He leans in to kiss me, still holding me in his big strong arms. It’s slow and sweet, conveying his promise to be here for me no matter what. I close my eyes, letting his gentle care wash over me. My hands find their way to his hair, fingers tugging playfully. The gesture only eggs him on, and he deepens our kiss.
The slide of our lips gets more passionate, and I struggle to keep up with Michael’s enthusiasm. His tongue finds its way into my mouth. Arousal starts to make itself known in my panties despite my earlier fear.
Michael growls, pulling my body closer and pushing me against the wall. He’s holding onto me so tight, I think he might leave bruises. I’ve never seen this possessive side of him before, and I want more. He’s always been so gentle with me, treating me like I’m going to break. I think I want things to be rough. When his hands move to my breasts, squeezing my nipples through my shirt, I yelp unintentionally.
Michael stares down at me, something possessive and interested glowing in his eyes. I think he’s going to go back in for another kiss, but instead he rests his forehead against mine saying, “I’m so glad we found each other.”
