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As the sun dips below the horizon, its final rays casting an ethereal glow over the world, my heart swells with anticipation. So much lies ahead, and although the way back home promises to be anything but smooth, the anxiety tugs my tummy. But no matter what trials await us, I’ll face them.
No matter what.
Chapter Twenty-Nine
Percival
Theenginerevsbeneathme as I merge onto the freeway, leaving the cool ocean breeze of Monterey behind us. The faster route back to San Diego stretches out before us, a practical choice for two people with little time to waste.
I glance over at Spencer again, noticing the lines under her eyes and the way her hands grip her hoodie tightly. She’s dressed casually, as always, in leggings and a t-shirt, but there’s something endearing about her simple style. It’s a stark contrast to my own preference for luxury.
“How are you feeling?”
“Fine,” she insists, trying to sound convincing. But her yawn betrays her, and I chuckle.
“Fine, huh?” I tease, shaking my head.
Her lips curve into a small, reluctant smile, and she nods.
I return my focus to the road, feeling a strange mix of concern and affection for this woman who’s somehow found her way into my life. I’ve always been one for adventure and excitement, but with Spencer, even a simple drive down the freeway feels like its own kind of journey.
As we continue southward, she drifts off to sleep, her breathing slow and steady. I think that maybe, just maybe, this trip will be the start of something different, not just for me but for both of us.
The sun dips low in the sky as I weave through traffic. Spencer’s breathing has become more labored, her agitation growing with each mile we cover. My grip on the steering wheel tightens, and I can’t shake this gnawing feeling in my gut.
“Hey,” I say, glancing over at her. “How about we pull over for a bit? You know, stretch our legs and all that.”
Spencer’s emerald eyes flash with something close to defiance. “I told you already, Percival, I’m fine. We don’t need to stop.”
“Come on.” I grin, trying to keep things light. “You look like you’re about to pass out. I promise, it’ll just be a quickie.”
She huffs, crossing her arms over her chest. “We’re making good time, and I don’t want to ruin that.”
“Fine, have it your way.” I chuckle, shaking my head. “But if you don’t calm down, I might just have to tie you up and toss you in the backseat.”
She shoots me a playful glare, but there’s no denying the hint of amusement that flickers in her eyes. “You wouldn’t dare.”
“Try me,” I tease, winking at her.
As we continue driving, my thoughts spiral. The more time I spend with Spencer, the more I find myself drawn to her. She’s unlike anyone I’ve ever met, strong, resilient, and so damn stubborn sometimes. But it’s that very determination that makes her so irresistible. And yet, I worry about what lies ahead.
I’ve never been one to settle down, always preferring the thrill of the chase and the adrenaline rush of a new conquest. But with Spencer by my side, I’m starting to question everything I thought I knew about myself. My heart races as my palms grow clammy on the wheel.
As the hours tick by, I find my thoughts drifting back to our situation. It’s been a wild ride, filled with highs and lows, laughter and tears. And yet, despite everything, I can’t shake the feeling that there’s something more between us, something deeper than friendship or lust.
But what does that mean? And where do we go from here? As much as I hate to admit it, I’m scared—not just for myself, but for her as well. What if I screw this up like I’ve screwed up everything else in my life?
Hours later, we finally pull up to my townhome in downtown San Diego. The sleek, modern structure stands tall against the darkening sky, a testament to the city’s ever-evolving landscape.
Spencer breathes as she gazes up at the building. A chuckle escapes my throat as I jump out of the car to help her to go out. As we step through the front door, I think that maybe—just maybe—this could be the start of something extraordinary. And for once in my life, I’m not afraid to find out.
The moment we step into the open-concept living space, Spencer’s eyes scan every corner of the room, taking in the high ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, and ultra-modern furnishings. She wanders through the space, her fingers brushing against the cool marble countertops and sleek leather seating.
As she moves around, I contemplate the way her gaze wanders around the place I call home. My townhome lacks the warmth and lived-in charm that fills my brother’s home or her own home, the one where she spends hours painstakingly restoring furniture and creating art. The thought of her infusing that same warmth into my home sends a shiver down my spine, one that has nothing to do with the temperature.
“Hey, maybe you could help me to bring some color here,” I suggest, trying to sound casual. “You have amazing taste and skill when it comes to making a space feel more inviting. What do you say?”
Spencer bites her lip, considering my offer. “Well, I guess I could give it a shot. But only if you promise to let me paint something for your walls. They’re practically screaming for some color.”
