Page 44 of Bit's Bliss

“Do you know if your mother had any experimental treatment for her illness?”

Her eyes scrunched. “She did. Oh my God, do you think that’s where the money went?”

“There’s a good chance. At least in part.”

She put her hand on her stomach. “I should’ve thought of it instead of assuming the worst about my dad.”

“It doesn’t change some of the things he’s done subsequently.”

“You’re right.” Eberly covered her mouth when she yawned and returned her head to my shoulder.

“Come on. Let’s get some sleep.” I took her hand in mine.

“I thought we were going to talk.”

“Not tonight.”

“But—”

“I don’t have the energy for it, and I know you don’t either.”

Her brow was furrowed.

“Are you planning on leaving anytime soon?” I asked.

“Meaning?”

“Your uncle mentioned you might want to stay with him and your aunt.”

“Is that what you want?”

I leveled my gaze at her. “Answer my question, little dove.”

“I’d rather stay with you unless?—”

I kissed her, then pulled away. “The point I’m trying to make is I want you here with me, and as long as you’re not planning to leave, then whether we talk tonight or tomorrow won’t matter.”

She lowered her head and frowned. “You’re right.”

Rather than pull her up with me when I stood, I put my arm under her and lifted her in my arms. I carried her into the bedroom, rested her on the mattress, then knelt in front of her.

“We bothwant, Eberly. I’m sure my desire for you far exceeds yours for me.”

She shook her head. “I don’t think that’s possible.”

I smiled, then leaned forward and kissed her. “I assure you, it is.”

“Then, why…?”

“You know the answer, but I’ll say it anyway. The first time you and I make love, I don’t believe either of us wants to feel rushed or tired, or that we might be interrupted at any minute. Don’t you think it’s worth waiting for?”

“As long as that’s the real reason.”

“Are you accusing me of lying to you?”

“No. That isn’t what I meant.”

I stood and pulled her up with me. “I’m going to remove your clothes now. Then we’ll talk.”