Page 39 of Love Overdose: St. Louis

Malik slept for another hour after we got home. I used the silence to send Amelia three clips from therapy, answer work emails, and pretend I hadn’t opened Elijah’s contact information six times. On the seventh, I called. He answered on the second ring.

“Frankie,” his deep, soothing voice said.

“Dr. Valentine.”

“It’s nice to hear from you again. I’ve been thinking about you all day.”

“Really?”

“Yes.”

“What have you been thinking about?”

“To be honest, hoping I hadn’t gone too far with the kiss and the caution. After sleeping on it, I realized I could’ve been moving too fast, but I wanted you bad,” he said.

“I know.”

“I still want you.”

My thighs pressed together. “I’m counting on that. In fact, you didn’t move too fast. If you were someone I wanted to friendzone, you’d have never heard from me again, though.”

Dark laughter spilled from his side of the line, and my nipples hardened.

“I love your honesty.”

“I’m glad you do because I can’t tell no lies.”

“When can I see you again, Frankie?”

“My weekend is open. How about Saturday?”

“Saturday is perfect. Do you like Italian food?”

“Yes.”

“Dress business casual, and I’ll pick you up at seven pm.”

“Dinner… and what next?”

He paused. “I feel like you have some thoughts on what’s next.”

“I do.”

“I’m all ears.”

“Your place, not mine… for the night.”

A deep vibrational hum slipped across the line. “A nightcap?”

“Yes.”

“Consider it official.” I smiled and warmth settled all over me. “Is there anything else I should know?”

The question opened the door I’d been avoiding. My eyes drifted toward the hallway. Malik remained asleep in his room.

“Yes,” I said. “There is.” Elijah waited. “I have a son.”

The line stayed quiet, but the silence didn’t feel startled or disapproving.