Page 42 of Power Play Daddies

“Thanks,” she says softly, looking down at the list like it’s suddenly the most interesting thing in the world. “But you didn’t have to get all this. I have had him for a while now, and he is pretty sorted out.”

“Don’t mention it. Take it as an apology for being a purported asshole. But as payment, I should at least get to meet this kitten,” I say, smirking.

She glances at me, her lips curving just a little. “His name’s Slim, and I don’t mind.”

“That’s a badass name for a kitten,” I say, grinning.

Her smile grows, and for a second, I forget how to breathe. She’s got the sexiest smile, all soft lips and shy confidence, and it hits me harder than I’d like to admit.

When she looks away, I take a discreet moment to adjust myself because, apparently, seeing her in nothing but a shirt has my body reacting like a damn teenager.

“So, Slim,” I say, forcing my brain to focus. “How’d you come up with the name?”

She shrugs, her fingers playing with the hem of the shirt. “He’s tiny, but he thinks he’s tough. He’s my little Slim Jim runt.”

I laugh, shaking my head. “That’s perfect.”

By the time we pull up to her place, I’ve memorized the way her laugh sounds and the way her legs look tucked under her. She grabs the bags and starts to thank me, but I cut her off.

“I meant it, Daisy. I wanna meet Slim.”

Her cheeks flush, but she nods, opening the door.

When I step inside, the little furball comes bounding over, all big eyes and tiny meows. “This him?” I ask, crouching down.

“Yeah,” she says, her voice softer now.

Slim climbs right into my hand, and Daisy laughs. It’s a real laugh, the kind that makes me want to hear it again.

“Guess he likes you,” she says, her lips twitching.

“Yeah, well, I’m a likable guy,” I say, glancing up at her.

She rolls her eyes, but there’s a smile there too. For the first time all day, I don’t feel like I’m fucking things up.

Slim lifts his little black paws and then yawns. I put him on the floor to run wild.

He darts between her ankles, tail flicking.

“You all right?” I ask, scratching the back of my neck. “I can head out if?—”

“No, it’s okay.” Her voice is soft, almost hesitant. “Do you want… juice or something?”

Juice? That’s random, but I nod. “Yeah, sure.”

She steps aside, letting me in. Her place smells like vanilla and something floral. Slim pads ahead of us toward the kitchen, tail held high.

“Nice place,” I say, trailing behind her.

“Thanks,” she says, glancing over her shoulder. She’s still wearing Kieran’s shirt. It’s long enough to cover her thighs, but damn, her legs are right there. Smooth. Golden. My mouth’s suddenly dry.

She pours juice into two glasses and hands me one. “Sorry, this is awkward.”

I chuckle, leaning against the counter. “You don’t have to be embarrassed.”

Her cheeks flush, and she tucks her hair behind her ear. “I am, though. I mean, you’re Kieran’s friend, and now you’re here, and it’s just?—”

I cut her off. “Don’t be.” I set the glass down and take a step closer. “Wanna know what’s embarrassing? I’ve been sitting here, wondering how you’d react if I told you something… personal.”