Page 114 of A Convenient Secret

In our connection.

Declan doesn’t let up, relentlessly chasing our release while he doesn’t look away once. It’s unnerving and exhilarating at the same time. It’s like he fucks me with his cock but is making love to me with his eyes.

The intimacy sizzles, scaring me, but also deepening our bond.

“Who do you belong to, Lily?” he grits out, barely hanging onto his control.

“You,” I mumble into his hand.

I know it’s only bedroom talk, but my entire being wishes it was the truth. That he would claim me outside of our little cocoon.

“We’ll go for ice cream to celebrate the end of school,” I announce as we’re finishing family dinner.

The weather has eased up in the last few days, breathing reasonable temperatures through sizzling Manhattan. The breeze is so pleasant that I set up our meal on the terrace.

“I have good news, Zach,” Declan says, putting his hand on my thigh under the table.

Zach looks up, his eyes twinkling with excitement. “Yes?”

“I talked to your coach, and he understands you will be pursuing other interests.”

Zach smiles. “Thank you, Dad.”

“I also got you a few lessons with the best piano teacher in New York.”

“Dope,” he exclaims, but then looks at me like he’s seeking permission.

I pierce the strawberry in my salad, trying to calm my heart. “It’s a great opportunity for you, Zach. Besides, I can’t teach you more.” I lean over the table. “Don’t tell anyone, but you’re already better than me,” I fake-whisper to him.

My eyes meet Declan’s. A smile lingers on his face as he squeezes my thigh.

Ever since the library, something shifted between us. It’s been a week, and we haven’t talked about it, but it’s undeniable.

Declan has been coming home earlier. He’s done a few school pickups with me, so we can spend the afternoon with the kids. Stolen looks, touches and kisses are the norm now. I don’t know how long we can pretend.

He’s insisted on unplanned family outings, ignoring the color-coded system on his fridge door.

He worked from home for two days this week, though all hisworkoccurred in my bed. Not that I’m complaining.

It’s moments like these when the longing rattlesthrough me, unwilling to stay put. The need to reach out and squeeze his shoulder, to hold his hand, to kiss him is growing stronger every day.

But I take what I can get at present. And a family dinner on this luxurious terrace is one of those moments I will cherish forever.

“I can’t wait. I’m going to be the best,” Zach boasts. “Can I go to my room and call Grandma about it? I will be back for dessert.” He’s already standing up.

“Can I go to my woom, too?” Zoya asks.

She’s been really quiet today. “You haven’t eaten much. Are you okay, sweetheart?” I reach to touch her forehead.

“What about that ice cream?” Declan puts his fork down.

“I’m not in the mood fow ice cweam.” She slides down and shuffles away, following her brother.

Declan swipes the linen napkin from his lap. Before he stands up, he looks at me. Like we’re a team. Like he wants my opinion.

“Go talk to her, and I’ll tidy up.”

“Leave it and come with me. Let’s talk to her together.” He extends his hand, and I let him pull me up.