Page 84 of This Kind of Forever

Gabriel

He’s watching Soph tonight. He’s putting her to bed. Pretty sure he’s conked out on the floor based on how long he’s been gone though.

I have to stifle my giggle at the thought of Luke amidst all the pink and frills in Sophia’s bedroom, fast asleep.

So I’m the cure to your boredom.

Gabriel

No, baby. My mind’s been on you all night. Kitchen, remember?

I remember. Of course I do. If Clara and Delilah hadn’t walked in when they did, I’m sure they would have found more than just Gabe without a shirt.

I chew on my lip as I think about what to say. I’ve never done…thisbefore. But something about it sends heat through my veins. I don’t know if I’ll be any good at it, but I want to try.

If you were here right now, how would you touch me?

I can picture his smirk. The upward curve of his lips is a sight I know well, particularly after the past few weeks.

Waiting with bated breath, I watch as he types a response. My heart stutters, and an ache blooms between my thighs when the message rolls through.

Gabriel

First I’d have you strip bare while I watched. Then I’d have you touch yourself like you do when you’re alone, show me exactly what you like.

That was quick. It seems you’ve given some thought to this.

Gabriel

You have no idea.

So in this scenario, I would be at your mercy. What else would you do?

Gabriel

Why don’t I come home and show you?

Yes, please.

My mind runs away with itself as I reread his texts. Soon, I’m imagining what he’ll do when he gets me into bed. The anticipation is almost too much.

“Hallie?”

My head snaps up as I press my phone against my chest, hiding my screen. My stomach feels like it’s in my throat.

Clara laughs as she stands to stretch. “The movie’s over.” Her head tilts to the side. “Are you okay? You look a little flushed.”

Thank your brother.

Shoving that thought down, I nod. “I’m alright. Must be the wine.”

“I’m feeling it, too,” Delilah says, followed by a yawn. “We should get going. Sincesomeone’s making me help with the deliveries in the morning.”

Clara whacks her arm with a throw pillow. “You love me and you know it.”

As they both help me bring our dirty glasses to the kitchen, I hear the familiar sound of a door slamming outside. When the three of us make it to the front hallway, Gabe is toeing off his boots.

“Perfect timing,” he says, his eyes landing on me. Then his gaze slides to Delilah. “There’s a very tired fire chief asleep on your sister’s bedroom floor.”