Page 37 of Die for You

Surely, I’m hallucinating.

Perhaps the fumes from the chemical cleaner got to my head, and I am delirious. But as he comes to stand behind me, his signature fragrance kicking me in the solar plexus, I know that Lennon is really here…and he is really going to kill Nico.

Spinning around, I place my hand on his chest, stopping him from lunging forward. Our eyes lock, and it feels as if time stands still. I hadn’t realized how much I missed him until now.

I was resigned to the fact that I may never see him again.

But here he is, looking like the epitome of every bad boy wrapped into one tall, muscular alphahole.

His hair is mussed, and he hasn’t shaved in days. But I still want to eat him alive.

“Miss me,tesoro mio?”

That term of endearment slays me. It always has. But that smug smirk of his, tugging at that sinful mouth, pisses me off.

It’s the dose of reality I need as I shove him away while he chuckles.

“Get out,” I order, but it’s half-assed because I don’t mean it.

I have never wanted anyone to stay more than I do right now.

I suddenly feel faint as my stomach roils. It’s not a bad feeling, but I can’t help but think it’s Lettie—our baby responding to her father’s voice.

Lenny watches me closely as he knows me better than I know myself. “What’s wrong?”

“Other than the fact that you’re here, ruining my life?” I quip, hiding under sarcasm.

“Oh please, Casanova over there doesn’t really seem like the best conversationalist.” He juts out his chin at Nico.

I forgot he was here.

That’s how badly Lenny affects me.

Turning around, I soften my face because Nico doesn’t deserve any of this. I reach for the phone and type out a reply.

“I’m sorry, Nico. I have to talk to my friend alone. I will be all right. I will see you tomorrow.”

Nico’s attention bounces between Lenny and me.

Lenny laughs hilariously. “Fuck me. Is this how you communicate? I guess you’d both be really good at charades, though.”

“Lennon, shut up!”

Nico steps forward, which earns a low growl from Lenny.

Playtime is over.

“You heard her, dipshit. You’ve outstayed your welcome. Zip up your pants and leave. I’m giving you one chance and one chance only. You best take it.”

Nico’s nostrils flare, and he clenches his fists by his side.

Lenny simply scoffs in humor. “You look fucking ridiculous. Put on a shirt, for fuck’s sake. This isn’t WWE.”

Nico, however, doesn’t see the funny side to any of this and advances, primed on hitting Lenny.

“No!” I scream because I know this will not end well—for Nico.

Lenny pushes me out of the way and smacks Nico in the nose. Blood instantly pours from it.