Page 68 of Luci’s Lullaby

I’m busy tossing things left and right, cleaning as I go. I have dirty clothes in one hand and trash in the other as I get to his bedroom. I peek in and hear the shower running.

“He’s still in there, I’ll just grab some things and get them in the washer,” I whisper so not to disturb him.

I’ve piled dirty clothes at the door, and I’m making my way around to the dirty bottles and diapers everywhere. The bathroom door is ajar, and I can see towels on the counter.

Trying not to lean against it, I squeeze my arm in, reaching for them. My fingers graze them, and I tilt just a little bit more when the door swings wide at the same time as the shower stall opens.

Alden’s hard, wet body repels the water, and it runs in ripples down his muscles.

I slap my hand over my eyes. “Oh my gosh. I’m so sorry.” I jump and hurry from the room, yelling as I go. “I’m sorry, I was just getting the dirty clothes. Okay, I’m out.”

I shut his bedroom door behind me, pressing my body against. “Holy fucking shit.”

Grabbing the pile of material, I head to the laundry room and start a load of clothes. I tie the trash bag and check on the food. Setting it on the counter so it’ll cool a little before we eat.

I set the table and find a bottle of chilled wine. By the time Alden joins me again, the house is picked up and dinner is ready.

“Damn.” I spin toward his voice and silently repeat his word. Damn.

I whirl around, putting my back to him while I calm my raging hormones. He’s dressed in board shorts and a tank, showcasing his tattoos. Not to mention, the blue in his shorts matches his eyes.

“You sure do clean up nice.”

He moves closer to me. “Smells nice in here. What did you make?”

“I hope you like chicken because I made chicken-bacon ranch baked penne.” I bite my lip waiting on his response.

He rubs his stomach. “It sounds as good as it smells. When can we eat?”

“Now, come on.”

He moves the chair closer to mine and scoots his plate over. I begin to serve the food as he pours the wine. I push my hair that’s fallen behind my ear as he digs in.

His eyes are round as he chews his food. I wait with baited breath. “This is killer.”

“You really like it?” I study his face to see if I can tell if he’s lying.

He nods as he takes another mouthful. “So good.” He moans sending chills down my back.

“Good, that’s awesome.”

He rips off some bread, shoving it in his mouth and points over my head. “You didn’t have to clean.”

His words are so muffled, I can barely make out what he says. “Did you say, I didn’t have to clean?” He nods, smiling around a full face. “Are you starving?”

He half shrugs. “I haven’t had time to eat, she won’t sleep. This is the longest she’s slept since bringing her home.” He shoves in more food. “This is so good.”

“So I’ve been told.” Our gazes lock, and I’m sure we’re thinking about the same thing. I’ve said those exact words to him before. My cheeks flush.

He smirks. “I’ve heard.”

I shift in my seat. “How are you holding up?”

“I’m not sure. By the looks of things this evening, not good.” He purses his lips.

“I think you’re doing amazing. It’s not an easy task.”

He sighs. “To tell you the truth, I’m not sure I’m going to make it. I keep screwing everything up, and I’m pretty sure Luci hates me.”

“She doesn’t hate you. I don’t think anyone could.”

His bottom lip trembles, the only sign of his distress. “I miss him, he’s all I’ve ever had.”

“I’m sorry I didn’t come to the service, I didn’t know.”

He wipes his mouth. “It happened so fast.” He pauses. “It was the day I saw you at the store.”

“Was that the phone call?” I lay my hand over my heart.

“It was.” His shoulders slump. “I should’ve told you.”

“I would’ve come with you.” His eyes meet mine. “As your friend, of course.”

“Yeah.” He grimaces and takes a drink of wine. “Friends.”