Page 47 of Beneath the Blue Moon

***Casey***

“Mmm….”

A grin spreads across my lips before I even open my eyes.

Ethan has to be the best lover in the universe. My skin is tingling at the mere

memory of last night. I don’t even remember getting into bed. I crawl out and

head for the bathroom to get a much-needed shower. After brushing my teeth, I

strip down and see that my bra and panties are missing once again. I remember

looking for them and then giving up when they were nowhere to be found. I

didn’t even see when he took them. Is he going to steal my underwear every time

we have sex? The little perv.

During my shower, I discover a soreness like I’ve never felt

before. I guess that’s what happens with an insatiable man, added to the fact

that I’ve just emerged from a drought. Oh, well. After blow-drying my hair, I

get dressed and head to the kitchen, where I find Clara and my dad.

“Morning, moonbeam.”

Moonbeam. He used to call me that all the time when I was a

little girl. It’s a little scarce nowadays, so I take it where I can get it.

With a big smile, I kiss his cheek.

“Morning, Daddy. Morning, Clara.”

“Morning, dear. Sit, I made breakfast.”

“You didn’t have to.”

“It’s no trouble. I love to cook. Besides, it’s just oatmeal.”

She places bowls in front of Daddy and me, containing

steaming oatmeal topped with fresh fruit. I glance over at him, and I can see a

difference. He doesn’t look weak or lost. His green eyes are bright and

focused, his head of grey hair combed, and his shirt is neatly tucked into his

jeans. It’s one of his good days, and I intend to enjoy it thoroughly.

“Thanks.”

She traces the curve of my cheek with her fingers, giving me

a warm smile.

“Such a beautiful girl.”

“That’s my Casey,” Daddy says with a proud grin.

“Aww shucks, you two.”

“Ethan’s a lucky man.”

Oh, crap. No, Clara, not in front of Daddy!

“Ethan? Is that the sheriff?”

“Yes, Daddy.”

“So, it’s serious?”

Is it? I don’t even know. What he said last night sounded

pretty damned serious.

“We haven’t really discussed it but… I don’t know. It might

be.”

“Is he a good man? Does he treat you like a queen?”

“Yes… and yes.”

“Does he make you feel safe?”

“He’s very protective.”

Overprotective even.

“Does he make you happy?”

“Definitely.”

No question about that one. He reaches over and places his

hand on mine, giving it a light squeeze.

“Well then, you have my blessing, sweetheart.”

“Oh, Daddy….”

I hop down from my stool and throw my arms around him,

catching him unaware. He makes a startled sound and then wraps his arm around

my waist with a chuckle.

“Careful with the old man now.”

“Casey, why don’t you take Luke out into the garden?” Clara

asks. “Get some fresh air.”

“Okay. Daddy?”

“Lead the way, moonbeam.”