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One of the staff comes over to say hello, and Violet and Lainey issue an introduction. We start talking about their programs, how they have informal drop-ins, classes, and a special art therapy program with both group and private sessions.
By the end of the half-hour session, I’ve already filled out their volunteer forms and assured them I can make the three-month minimum commitment. I’m excited by the prospect of volunteering in a place that’s in line with what I’ve always been passionate about.
After I’m dropped off at home—we go for lunch first—I call back the top potential candidates to replace me as my dad’s assistant, narrow it down to three, and schedule in-person interviews for when my dad gets back from the away series.
I’d do all the interviewing myself, but I know my dad, and he’ll want to be part of the process, especially since it will be him working with whoever gets hired.
The team is scheduled to return this evening, and as much as I’d like to spend the night with Kingston, I have to be at my lawyer’s office early tomorrow morning so we can sign the paperwork and make the divorce final.
Kingston calls as I’m getting ready for bed, on a video chat. Based on his current state of dress and the fact that I’m propped up on his folding table and he’s unloading his duffle directly into the washing machine, he just got home. It means my dad will also be home soon.
“How’s my queen?” His gaze moves over me, a slow sweep that heats as he takes in my bedtime attire.
“Good, tired, missing my king.” We are so cheesy, and I am totally okay with that.
“I miss your lips.”
“Which set?” I am totally using sex to deflect all the other anxieties that are currently eating at me.
A half smirk curves the corner of his mouth, and his tongue peeks out to touch the chip in his front tooth. It’s a completely subconscious action that I find incredibly sexy for whatever reason. “Both, actually. I could come to you. I don’t have to stay the night. I can drop by for an hour, kiss those pretty lips of yours.”
“Both sets, obviously.”
“Mmm. I’d divide my time equally, so neither feels underappreciated.”
I laugh breathily. “I would honestly love that, but if you’re home, that means my dad will be home soon, and we have to go to the lawyer’s tomorrow morning. And let’s be real: nothing ever lasts just an hour with you, especially when you’ve been away for four days.”
He frowns and taps his lips, the lust in his eyes fading quickly. “I could come with you to the lawyer’s in the morning. I should be there.”
I make a face. “I’m not sure I’d agree with that. As much as I appreciate your support, I need to do it on my own. My dad is driving me there, but he’s not coming in when I sign the papers. I need to see this through, and I can’t imagine Corey being anything but an antagonistic ass no matter what, but he’ll be a million times worse if you’re there with me.”
He seems to want to fight me on it for a few seconds, but eventually he says, “I guess I can see your point. And if he’s a jerk, I’ll want to punch him, and that will make things even worse.”
“Punching him would feel good, but yeah, it definitely wouldn’t help the situation.”
“Will you call as soon as you’re done and tell me how it went?”
“Of course.”
He nods, resolute. “Okay. I miss you. I need to find a way to get some alone time in with you, regardless of whether my family is in town or not. How are you feeling about meeting them tomorrow?”
“Honestly? Nervous.” I’d like to say I’ll feel better when the divorce is final and King’s no longer dating a married woman, but I’m not sure even that is going to settle my mind or my nerves.
“It’s going to be great, Queenie. Momster is so excited to meet you in person.”
“I’m excited to meet her too.” And I am.
The flash of headlights in the driveway draws my attention. “My dad just got home. I should probably let you go.”
“Okay.” He exhales a long breath. “I love you.”
“I love you too.”
He smiles. “My favorite words from your lips. Sleep well. I can’t wait to see you tomorrow.”
“Me too.” It’s the rest of his family I’m not excited about.“You’re sure you don’t want me to come in with you?” My dad taps restlessly on the steering wheel, gaze shifting between the lawyer’s office and me.
“I’m sure. I need to do this on my own, and it’s awkward enough for you having to deal with Corey on a business level; I’d prefer if my personal stuff doesn’t interfere more than it already has.”
