Whoa.
Like I wouldn’t dare.
Like it would be so disrespectful it’s almost unthinkable. The thought makes something unfurl in my stomach.
“You’re right,” I agree. “That’s not something I would ever do.”
What I don’t say is it’s not something I’dwantto do.
Not while I have Ethan looking at me with those dangerously hot ice-blue eyes.
I clear my throat and look down at my plate.
He must’ve remembered the lobster mac old Leonidas used to throw together for us when we were kids. Even if his pasta is different tonight, it makes me smile.
It’s hard to believe I ever hated this man.
I can’t even put my finger on when that changed.
Maybe the last bit of hesitation faded when we went to see his parents.
I saw where he came from, and he saw my past in Mom’s antics, too.
“Sorry I fell asleep.” I think that’s a safer subject than the way he fisted my hair in his hand as he fucked my mouth.
Or the way I felt so deliciously vulnerable and bare when he pushed inside me and claimed every part of me.
The way I wanted him to.
“It’s fine.” The corner of his mouth curls up. “You snore.”
“I donot!” But I also can’t remember the last time I shared a room with anyone besides Margot, and that girl sleeps like the dead.
So what if I do snore?
He smirks at me. “You’re cute when you blush.”
“And you’re weird when you’re being nice. Is this just how it is from now on?”
“Unless you give me a reason not to be.” His eyelids lower as he looks at me. “Get used to being treated decently, Pages.”
“Why?” I whisper.
“Because. I like the way you look when I compliment you. It’s a crime it doesn’t happen often.” And although his voice is perfectly calm, totally steady, it feels a little like a confession.
Dangerous territory indeed.
But the warmth in my stomach spreads through me. I have to bite back my smile as I look down at my food and take another big mouthful, losing myself in the rich cheese and velvety meat.
“Almost as good as Leo’s,” I say.
Ethan snorts. “He’d scold me for using less cheese. Always thought the man raided Wisconsin whenever he made it.”
“So what are your bad habits?” I ask. “If I snore, you must do something unforgivable.”
“Mine happen while I’m awake. Mostly.” He shrugs. “Don’t think I have many.”
“Now Iknowthat’s a lie.”
