Page 40 of Who's Loving You

“Not a chance, lover boy. As far as my parents will know, we will be casually dating and break-up when we both realize that we’re too different. You are wild and free and far too young. And I am focused and stable and need structure in my life. The two simply do not coexist well.”

His once exuberant expression quickly falls and he stares at his half eaten dessert.

“I don’t mean that in a bad way,” I say, trying to back track. “It’s just, you and I are at two different stages inour lives and I’m looking for a relationship that really doesn’t exist in today’s world.”

“And what type of relationship would that be?” His tone is curious and a tad bit hopeful.

I set my spoon down and place my hands in my lap. “One of mutual respect. One that doesn’t involve an imbalance in what is contributed. I’m not looking for a provider in terms of monetary value. I make plenty of my own money and don’t need a man to take care of me in that way. But I would like a man who provides me with love and affection, and can bring laughter and adventure into my life. I want an equal, not a proprietor, if that makes sense.”

He nods his head slowly and stares directly into my eyes. “You want someone who can show you an exciting world while standing by your side, not in front of you.”

“Yeah. Exactly.” I’m astonished by how he was able to put it all into the exact words that many men can’t quite grasp.

“But I bet it would be nice to let someone else take the lead every once in a while. Maybe behind closed doors where it’s okay to let go? A place where you don’t mind a man taking control of your every desire without you having to ask or show him how it needs to be done. One that would knowexactlywhat you need and provide it. You could release your tight hold on composure and just…be.”

I swallow, feeling sweat build on my neck and between my legs. I’ve yet to meet a man who can realize that sometimes a woman wants to be treated with respect and care just as much as she wants to be controlled. In the right place at the right time.

With how he so confidently speaks, it appears Nic is an expert in just that. When it comes to giving a womana need she doesn't know she wants, age is nothing but a number.

Nico Loving may have the experience to read a woman’s mind but he has no clue how to care for a woman’s heart. It’s why, around him, I will keep a steel wall to guard both. I can’t let him slide into either one.

Or anything else, for that matter.

14

NICO

The Original Rumpshakers

Big Poppa: Good luck, son. We’re so proud of you. We’ll be waiting for you in the end zone. LYMI

Little G: I really wish we could’ve seen you last night when we got in, but I’ll settle for hugging you after the game. LYMI, Slick Nic.

Mama Bear: I don’t quite have the right words so I’ll just say you are one of our greatest gifts, and seeing you fulfill your biggest dream is all I’ve ever wanted for you. LYMI, mijo.

Me: Thanks is not nearly great enough for all of your support and love you’ve given me. Even you, Little G. I promise to make you proud. The first TD game ball will have your name on it, Pops. Can’t wait to seeyou. LYMI.

Trickie Nickies

Saint: It’s game day boys! I wish we were taking the field together. Maybe one day, huh. Let’s go kick some ass. #trickienickies

Diva: I know I’ll be on the field today. Hopefully you chumps make it out there. Bets on highest numbers today?

Saint: I don’t like to bet, but Imma say *I* come out the winner today.

Diva: Not a fucking chance. 275 yds, 4 TD’s, no int. Take that to the bank.

Me: Boys boys. Quit bickering. We all know I’m going to be the star of the day. You two can fight for second place.

Diva: Fuck off

Saint: Bite me

Me: No thanks, but I appreciate the offer. In all seriousness, I miss you assholes. Good luck today. LYMI #trickienickies Also…I’m dating Valentina. Later.

Saint: The fuck you say?

Diva: Woah woah woah. Get your ass back here and explain.