AllFreeNovel
Share Us
He lifts me against his chest and steps us across the threshold. I break into sobs when my feet hit the ground, and he wraps me in his warm arms.
“What are you doing here? You have every right to hate me.”
“Hush. Let me hold you.”
The plastic bag drops on the floor, and I cling to his waist. He soothes me with tender strokes of my hair and brushes along my back.
“Just a second.”
He loosens his grip, and I retreat to the bathroom. I blow my nose and laugh in the mirror at my red skin. Someone was looking out for me tonight. I can’t ignore the series of minor miracles, from free candy to an Uber ride. Maybe we’re meant to be together after all.
I slip into fluffy pink slippers and stand in the bedroom doorway, admiring the humble gift who’s waiting with patience. This is our night. Thanks, Santa.
“Can we try again? You’ve brought me back to life, Penelope, with your compassion and beauty. I won’t hold your past against you. We all screw up, especially me.”
“I was ashamed to tell you the truth. I caught Ted kissing the blonde when I drove to his office to surprise him with lunch. He let me use his car that day to run errands. I haven’t had alcohol since that night.”
He paces towards me until we’re breaths apart.
“I’m sorry, Penelope. I had no right to judge you. It’s not your fault that Ted is a sleazy cheating bastard. And I’m not perfect either. I have my own demons to battle.”
He takes my hand and leads me over to the miniature Christmas tree. He reaches into his pocket and pulls out a small box.
“I got you a present. Open it.”
I tear the wrapping paper to reveal a Hallmark ornament. The design shows the scales of justice sitting on a legal pad with a gavel to the side.
"Where did you find this? Mom and I buy a new keepsake treasure each year, but we've both been too exhausted to bother. The lawyer that saved Christmas. Who knew?"
Bentley leans in to kiss me. It starts off slow and tender, but soon his passion ignites. His arms wrap around my waist and I cling to him, lost in the moment.
We break apart, panting and grinning at each other. It’s been a rollercoaster ride, but maybe this is where we both belong.
“Merry Christmas, Bentley.”
“Promise me something.”
“Anything.”
“You’ll trust me with your emotions, good and bad. My heart’s awakening, Penelope, with appreciation for the past and gratitude for the present.”
He clasps my fingers, and his eyes tear with love.
“Will you be my girlfriend, Miss Parks? The perks include a generous salary and a full-paid scholarship to law school. You don't mind working underneath me, do you?”
14
Bentley
Fireworks explode through the dense air as plump lips glide across my skin. I’ll want for nothing if she’ll be mine.
Her hands press against my chest, and she traces my muscles with her thumbs. I hum with desire as her fingernails shift north and scrape the back of my neck. The kiss deepens.
“Did you go to Starbucks? I taste peppermint mocha.”
“The counsel will keep quiet while I examine the evidence and reach a decision.”
She removes my tie and unbuttons the shirt. The feel of her soft hands causes me to growl. I need her so badly.
