DANIELLE
Five years.
It’s a long time, but to know we’ll have another expiration date on our relationship is enough to send me running for the hills.
Blake sleeps soundly beside me, the soft rise and fall of his chest beneath my fingers soothing me somewhat.
We’re together right now.
I can’t believe how easily we fit together—despite every intention I had to keep as far away from him as possible.
A fake marriage on the outside, but a real love on the inside.
I allow my mind to drift, wondering what it would be like to be with Blake James for real.
Would he commit? No other women?
Unlikely.
He’s said as much himself; he isn’t capable of giving me more.
Staring at his dark hair sprawling over the pillows, tears sting my eyes.
As much as I appreciate his honesty, I’m already in too deep.
Whatever this is…it’s happening.
Blake stirs, shifting to his side so he’s facing me. His eyes open, focusing on me as a smile curves on his lips.
“Uh oh, what are you thinking about?”
“Just how ugly you are.”
Blake laughs so hard it turns into a cough, and I smirk to myself.
He’s an arrogant fuck.
“So ugly you couldn’t keep your hands off me last night.”
“A woman has needs.”
“Yes,” Blake says with a grin. “And I’m here to satisfy those needs.”
My head throbs a little from the champagne, but when Blake strokes my forehead with his thumb, it dissolves away.
What is he, Jesus?
“Healing hands,” I whisper, closing my eyes as his other hand cups my chin.
“Is it wrong that all I want to do is be inside of you again?” Blake mumbles into my ear, tugging my lips to his.
Five years.
That’s all I can do.
“Blake.”
His lips leave mine, and he stiffens. “Yeah?”
