Put’in on the shine.
I shake my head, slide my phone in my blazer, and wander around the room. I found a store that specialized in suits. Themanager explained that it would take weeks to make a custom suit. I paid him a large sum to give me the best he could in an hour. Deciding on black slacks and a black jacket, I paired them with a red dress shirt to match Rylee’s hair. The salesman told me it was burgundy plum. I stared at him. The shirt looks like her hair, and that’s all that matters. I declined the tie, leaving the top two buttons of my shirt unbuttoned. I was presented with shiny black shoes, which I also declined. Rylee won’t care, so I stuck with my boots.
Issy is on a plane. She should be landing soon. My mom will have to wait. I bought her a ticket. She’ll arrive tomorrow. I’m cautious. Rylee needs slow. Meeting both of them would be a lot. The women in my life have big personalities and often ignore boundaries when it comes to me. I believe she could benefit from having them in her life, but I don’t want to force a relationship.
“Fuck,” Rylee whispers, and I turn.
“Foxy,” I rumble, staring at the beauty of my mate. I’m shocked. Her dress is long, tight, and the same color as my shirt. I couldn’t have planned it better without planning a damn thing. “You’re stunning."
“You like it?” She trails her palm down her side.
“Love it,” I growl, and we move toward each other.
“You’re hot,” she blurts out as we stop close.
“Thanks, baby,” I smirk and grab her hand, holding it wide. “Turn for me.” I lift my chin.
She giggles. “Sure.” And pivots.
“Perfect,” I hum, enjoying the view, twirling her.
“Are you going to tell me the occasion?” she asks, facing me.
“I thought you would enjoy a night out.” I pull her toward the table. “First, flowers.” I lift them. “I understand women like them.” I lift a shoulder. My mom’s face would light up when I bought them for her. They died three days later, and I thought itwas a waste. A statement I didn’t express toward her more than once.
“They’re gorgeous,” she breathes, holding them to her nose. “I’ll put them in water.” She lets go of my hand and goes into the kitchen.
“I have news.” I tilt my head as she reaches a high shelf for a vase. Her fingers barely brush it, so I walk toward her and press against her back. “I’ll get it.” I grasp the glass and place it in front of her. Instead of moving away, I enjoy the warmth of her body.
“Thanks,” she says softly.
“I invited a guest.” I brush her hair over her shoulder, and she turns. “My sister is coming.”
“I can’t wait to meet her,” she says, cupping the edge of the counter.
“Yeah?” I drop my hands beside hers.
“Yes.” She smiles. “Did you think I wouldn’t want her here?”
“I don’t want to rush you,” I say quietly.
“Ezra, I want to know you.” She leans forward. “And the people in your life. They’re your family.”
“My mom will be here tomorrow,” I mention lightly.
“Alright,” she says slowly. “Do you want them to stay here?”
“Fuck, no,” I grumble, and she laughs. “I got them a room.”
“When did you see them last?”
“It’s been a few months. I talk to them all the time. Mom’s constantly updated on my plans. She doesn’t interfere, but she likes to know if I’m on a job.” I study her face so close to mine and realize how much I love her already.
“Don’t be afraid of my reactions,” she says softly. “I won’t walk away from this.” She presses her palm to my chest.
“I’ve never had anything mean as much as this,” I murmur, pressing my hand to hers. “Fucking it up isn’t an option.”
“Mate,” she whispers, gliding our joined hands up my chest. “You won’t fuck it up.” She slides her hand under the edge of my shirt, and I drop my arm. “I like you in a suit.”
