“We agree on that,” I say softly. “I’m going to check your home before I go.”
“I’ll let you.” She enters a long code into the pad beside the door. “Even though it would take a lot to get in.” She scans her fingerprints and opens the door. She steps forward, and I grab her arm.
“Allow me.” I enter first and pull her behind me. “Will you stay here, please?” I push her gently to the side and against the wall.
“Yes,” she whispers.
I move quickly through the space. I don’t sense anyone else in the apartment, yet my animal and the man are pushing me to act. Later, I will reflect on the beauty of the space, knowing it will give me insight into my lovely mate. The living room, kitchen, and reading nook are easy to search since there are no walls or hiding spots. There are three doors further inside the space. One door leads to a spare bedroom. It’s basic and impersonal, decorated simply. I enter the room, check the closets, and the bathroom. I keep moving, walk through the main bathroom, and stop outside her room. The door is shut slightly, and I hear her heart speed up as I press on the wood with my fingertips to open it, but I don’t step inside. She isn’t ready to share the space with anyone. Instead of going inside, I push my senses and know there is no danger here for her.
I turn around and walk toward her. What am I going to do with her? I don’t want to leave her alone. She needs the space to adjust, and I need to recover. Her home is secure, so I don’t have to worry as much as I would if it were not. Perhaps, once I’m back to normal, I will come back. Even if it’s just to sit outside, and know she is as close as she will allow. She hasn’t moved from where I put her, and it satisfies me in a way she is not ready to hear.
“What are you doing tomorrow morning?” I ask, stopping two inches away.
“Being with you,” she says softly, and I grin.
“Good answer.” I tilt my head, smelling her desire. “I will bring you breakfast.”
“I never turn down food.” She licks her lips. Her body and scent are telling me to kiss her. I’ve done something right tonight. She’s comfortable in my presence, at least, to a certain extent.
“Do you sleep in?” I lean closer, brushing my nose over her cheek.
“Sometimes,” she breathes.
“Is nine too early?” I press my palms to the wall on either side of her head.
“No.” She shivers as I kiss her forehead lightly.
“What is your favorite breakfast food?” I drag my lips to her ear.
“Umm…” She clears her throat. “Anything.”
“Tell me,” I demand, my lips grazing her ear.
“Breakfast burritos,” she whispers.
“Anything else?” I glide my teeth lightly down her jaw.
“Hash browns,” she pants.
“I’ll bring both at nine.” I lift my head slightly. She stares at my mouth, her breathing escalated. “Spend the day with me.”
“Yes.” She meets my gaze.
I lower my head just enough to brush my mouth against hers, ease back, and trace her lips with my tongue. It’s painful, but I step back.
“Sleep well, Foxy.” I glide my fingers down her jaw and then move to the door. “I’ll wait until you lock up.” I open the door, and she shakes her head and steps away from the wall.
“Drive safe,” she says, and I nod. I enter the hallway and pause. “Tomorrow, Ezra.”
I grin, and she shuts the door slowly. I hold her stare until the wood is between us. I wait until I hear the beeps of the securitypad, press my palm to the door a moment, and then walk away. I move quickly to the elevator, pressing the button, and lunging inside as it opens. Gritting my teeth, I flex my fingers, my body at war. I don’t want to leave, but I’m in no shape to convince her to let me stay. Her boundaries are important to me. My needs are secondary.
Even though time isn’t on my side, I stop at the front desk.
“Ezra,” Stan says.
“Pen and paper,” I mumble. He frowns, but gives it to me. “This is my number. Rylee is important to me. If she is ever in trouble, call me.”
“Sir?”
