Page 138 of Renascence

“That’s why you love me.”

I don’t argue because he’s right; his sense of humor is one of the sexiest things about him. I vaguely acknowledge him removing the clamps and cleaning me up, settling me under the covers. Through heavy lids, I watch him take care of the toys and put away the bars on the bed before joining me.

“Wake up, sleepyhead.”

“Hmm?” I bury my face in his chest, inhaling his heavenly post-coital scent.

“Still wanna be my old lady?”

“Fuck yes.” He chuckles at my admission. “Are you kidding me?”

“Just thought I’d check.”

“Still wanna be my old man?”

“You’re the only thing in this world worth wanting, Emily.”

“Oh, Liam.” I somehow find the strength to sit astride him, cradling his face. “I love you.”

“I love you, too, darlin’.”

As much as I enjoyed our fuck-athon, those five words fill me with more joy than I’ve ever felt in my life.

“You do?”

“Baby, I’d give up my snakes for you.” He smiles, resting his hands on my waist.

“That much, huh?”

“That much. Trust and believe.”

I gently press my lips to his, happy tears sliding down my cheeks. I came to Stony View with my eyes closed, depressed and dead inside. All it took was one man with his dirty words and fantasy list to awaken me and show me what I’ve been missing all these years. His interest and attention invigorated my mind and body.

Like the phoenix from the ashes, I’ve risen.

Revived.

Renewed.

And utterly, totally in love.

EPILOGUE

Two months later

I watch Emily play with Ellen’s kid, Mikey, imagining her with a kid of our own. I’ve never had the urge to procreate, but Emily’s changed a lot about me. Why not this, too?

Einstein and Ellen walk into the clubhouse and the boy runs to them, prompting Em to join me on the couch.

“What do you say?” I nod to the kid. “Think you might want one?”

“I don’t know. Maybe. Do you?”

“It would be cool to have a little Emily running around.”

“Or a little Venom.” She gives me a wistful smile, her green eyes twinkling.

“So that’s a yes?”