Page 12 of Lock

Licking my dry lips, I push off the door. A disheveled, wide-eyed version of myself stares back from the large mirror above the sink.

My reflection shows confusion. I’d been sure he wouldn’t come tonight. After all, it’s not Halloween. I guess even he was thrown off by the burglaries. Biting my lip, I blink, watching my cheeks heat, and the color finally returning.

Leaning on the sink, I bend at the hips and take deep cleansing breaths. Something taps against the inside of my top as I shift. Pulling at the neck of my top, I peer inside. A gold locket hangs around my neck.

My brows furrow. I don’t wear a necklace.

Holy shit!He gave me a gift.

Warmth spreads through me.This isn’t just fucking for him either.

I may have woken up sore and confused, but the one thing I’m not is afraid or disappointed. Staying over at Kaleb’s, I’d known that he might not come for me, but I’d hoped. But given what Kaleb had done to the two men who broke into his house, it’s probably for the best that my mystery man stayed away.

I’m glad he came here instead. Speaking of, I need a shower. My throat screams every time I swallow. My face heats further. How do I explain this to Dr. Moore?You don’t.The same thing I tell him every time I’ve been before, I say the bare minimum.

The mission for today is to check that I’m not injured and get birth control.

Splashing my face, I let out a deep sigh. My chest feels light.

He came for me.

A bright smile spreads across my face.

He came for me.

CHAPTER SIX

Leonard

My eyes find the clock sitting on the white wall of my office. 11:03. Concern and irritation battle inside me. Shelby’s appointment was at eleven.

The pen in my hand clicks over and over, my thumb relentlessly pressing the top.

Where’s my girl?

“Hi, dear. The doctor is ready for you. Go right in,” Kathy greets.

Hearing my receptionist, I stand and then sit.Shit, what’s the matter with me? Last night wasn’t our first time, so why do I feel antsy?

Shelby enters my office with a deep blush.

Smiling, I stand and motion to the chair in front of my desk. “Have a seat.”

My eyes roam over her, assessing the way she walks. Her gait appears normal, good. I’d been rough last night, but I want her sore, not in pain.

“Shelby.” I nod. “What can I do for you? Kathy said you were a little vague when booking the appointment.”

“Thanks for making room to see me.” Her eyes flit about the room.

“Shelby,” I urge.

“So you know how we were talking about my . . . erm, annual checkup. Turns out I do need that.”

Nodding, I give her an easy smile, encouraging her to continue. I may know why she’s here, but I want to hear it.

I need her to say it.

My office falls into silence as we look at each other. Finally, Shelby rolls her eyes and caves.