Page 36 of Seduction

Looking up, she takes a deep breath, expelling it through her mouth. Our eyes meet, hers getting teary.

“Thank you.”

***Ellen***

Covertly, I observe Einstein on the drive to Mikey’s school. I was skeptical about him tagging along today, but I’ve actually had fun. He’s been patient, and even gave valuable input when I asked for it. The man is impressing me at every single turn. I have no idea why some woman hasn’t scooped him up yet. He’s pretty much perfect—smart, handsome, funny, kind, loyal… you name it. Not to mention he’s a fudging doctor. Oh, and let’s not forget the part where he’s an amazing kisser. My B.O.B got quite a workout after he left last night. And this morning? If he hadn’t stopped, we would definitely not have made this shopping trip. Just thinking about it is getting me hot and bothered.

“Everything okay?” he asks.

“Just thinking.”

“About me?” He grins, throwing a mischievous glance my way.

“And if I said yes?”

“I’d definitely want details.”

Laughing, I shake my head. Other than his brilliant mind, I think his playful side is one of the things about him that’s pulling me in.

“Actually, I was wondering why you’re still single.”

“Yeah? When you figure it out, you let me know.”

“Seriously, though. I’ve known you my whole life, so I know you’re not a gigantic jerk. Do you have an annoying habit women only find out about after a while?”

“Not that I’m aware of.” He chuckles. “But with the hours I work, there’s not much time to devote to anyone to form any kind of attachment.”

That sounded like a warning.

“Thanks to your brother, that’s about to change.”

I smile over at him, not missing the message behind his words. He pulls into a parking space, and I hop out of the car, practically skipping inside the building to get Mikey. I don’t know why his words made me so happy. I’m not looking for an “attachment.” Well, if by attachment he means his body attached to mine, then yeah. Definitely. I know I’m not capable of anything more than that.

“Miss Hunter!”

“Hey, Audrey,” I greet one of the caregivers. “How’d my little man do today?”

“Oh, he’s great. Such a smart and friendly little boy. He gets along with everyone.”

“I have no idea who he gets that from,” I joke.

Audrey giggles, adding, “He’s awful protective, too. Stands up for the other kids, especially the girls.” She gives me a knowing smile.

“ThatI know he got from his father.”

Her smile fades and she gives me an apologetic smile. It never fails; as soon as I see a sign of sunlight, the dark cloud of Eddie’s death rolls in.

“Momma!”

Mikey’s excited voice pulls me from under that cloud. Turning in his direction, I find him running toward me. I drop to a knee, wrapping my arms around him when he launches himself at me.

“Hey, baby! Did you have fun today?”

“Yes, lots of fun!”

“Good. You hungry?”

I stand, taking his hand as we leave the room. I wave to Audrey, both to say goodbye and to let her know I’m okay.