Page 22 of Shock
Nothing brings mortality to the forefront than somebody your own age dying.
“Did you know Allie?” I take a sip, savoring the burn of the heat and alcohol.
“Not well. Just in passing, really. You?” I nod, taking another mouthful.
“Mmm, we trained together when she started. She opted to work in Peds when the position suddenly became available. Otherwise, you probably would have known her a lot better.” He sits and brings my bare feet into his lap.
I’m wearing one of his T-shirts that’s worn and old. It’s got a gym logo on it I don’t recognize but want to ask him about. I trace the logo on my breast, and he groans.
“I’m not sure if I love you more naked or in my clothes.” There’s that word again.
“You’re throwing that word around like it’s insignificant.” I sip my coffee and watch him over the rim.
“Nothing insignificant about it.” He groans as I shift my feet in his lap.
“Happy we’re on the same page then. I don’t want to assume what you’re implying. I’m a blunt kinda chick, so don’t beat around the bush. What exactly is going on here?” I place the mug down and sit up straighter.
“Forever,” how can such a simple word terrify me so?
“Excuse me?” Diego clasps my ankles as I try to ball myself up.
“No running from me this time Bella. I will chase you. Forever is what I want with you. I’ve loved you for years. Seeing that article after last night just makes it clear to me how foolish I’ve been not saying so earlier. Can’t you feel it?” He leans in and cups my cheek.
I’m too emotional to deal with this right now.
I know that I’m impulsive and rash. If I make an important decision like this and regret it tomorrow because I didn’t take more than five seconds to think it over, it won’t be just my heart I’ll be breaking. I need to get out of here.
Now.
“Diego, I need time to think about this. Forever is a big commitment.” He nods, and I can see how reluctant he is to let me go.
“You don’t feel the same.” He looks everywhere but at me, and it steals my breath away.
“I didn’t say that. This is sudden. By all rights, I should be pissed you’ve lied to me all these years. I just need space to process everything that’s happened. Please tell me you understand?” I take his hands in mine and notice the busted-up knuckles.
I glance at the gym logo.
“It’s my cousin’s gym. I work out and box from time to time.” He shrugs.
I lean over and kiss him.
“I’m going to go home, check-in and get my day started. Tonight, you are taking me to dinner. You take a lady out before asking for forever.” He grins and nods.
“Yes, ma’am,” he deepens the kiss until I want to rip his sweats off and mount him.
Down girl!
“Ok, that’s enough of that. I’ll see you later.” I grab my boots and walk to the door.
“Wait! How are you getting home? You drove me.” I smirk and wave my phone at him.
“Glitch.” He frowns, and I giggle.
Her Harley rumbles into the driveway, and I open the door so he can see her custom bike. It’s brand new and fucking gorgeous. Desert cameo and all matte.
“Be safe.” He meets me at the door and drops one more kiss on my lips.
“What fun would that be?” I wink at him and walk over to Glitch, getting on behind her.
