Page 52 of Renascence

“When was the last time you spent two consecutive nights with a woman? Other than a Hound?”

“We have an agreement. That’s it.”

“If you say so.” He chuckles.

“Fuck it, I’m outta here. Gonna head to the gym.”

“Say hi to Emily for me.”

Yeah. And fuck you.

***Emily***

I hate to admit it, but he was right.

The bath and the coconut oil helped tremendously. I’m currently lounging in front of the TV in my most comfortable sweats, minus my underwear. Uncle Jeff joins me, reclining in his favorite chair.

“Going out tonight, sweetheart?”

“In a bit. Why, do you need me?”

“No, no. I’m glad you’re getting out. How are things going with Venom?”

I clear my throat, sitting upright at his question. What am I supposed to tell him? That I made a sex-only deal with one of his customers?

“Okay. Nothing serious.”

“I see. I suppose you’re not ready to jump into another relationship.”

“Nope.”

“I think someone like Venom is what you need right now. Something to get your mind off that idiot you married.” He grunts his disapproval of my ex.

“Well, thanks to Venom, I won’t be married to him much longer.”

“Those boys have always been quite resourceful. I’m just glad you’ll finally be rid of him. Don’t know what you saw in him in the first place.”

“Yeah. Honestly, I don’t even remember what it was. Guess it’s buried under all the shit I’ve had to put up with over the years.”

“You’re a gem, Emily. You deserve the best. Remember that when the next one comes along.”

“Uncle Jeff….”

Hopping out of my seat, I hurry the couple steps to him and throw my arms around him. He can be a hard-ass sometimes, but I’ve never known him as anything but a loving uncle. One who says the sweetest things when I need to hear them. He seemed to be as happy as I was this morning when I showed him the signed divorce papers. In fact, so were my parents when I told them.

“Careful now.” He chuckles, stroking my arm.

“Thank you.”

“Just speaking the truth, sweetheart.”

“Love you, Uncle Jeff.”

“Love you, too. Now, don’t you have to get ready for your date?”

Date. I almost snicker. What Venom and I are doing is nothing close to dating. I kiss his cheek, then head to my room. As I shower, I think about “the list.” I’ve been thinking about it all day. I mean, what do I put on it? After the last two nights, I’d be perfectly happy if he continued doing his thing. My only fantasy these last couple of years was to be rid of James, and now I am.

And Venom made that happen.