Page 39 of Maneater

Maybe someday, someday soon, Darien will love me as much as he loves my world.

Chapter Thirteen

Darien

I watch in fascination as Rex performs the ritual to open the invisible veil that protects the cave from outsiders. My stomach flutters as Rex opens the door, inviting me to go ahead, trusting me with one of his biggest secrets. That alone has to mean he’s serious about us.

The memory of the last time I was here hits me as I step inside, traveling down the low hallway that opens into the main area of his cave. Even I have to crouch a little so my head doesn’t scrape against the uneven rock. Poor Rex probably has back issues from having to stoop even lower.

I step into the open space, my mind flooded with memories of the last time I was here. Was that only a few weeks ago? And oh, how so much has changed in such a short span of time. Instead of being mad about the barrier I crashed into, I’m glad. Otherwise, being with Rex like this probably wouldn’t have happened.

I shove those thoughts aside. A profound sadness fills me that we might’ve never had the chance to be together the way we are now.

A rustling sound beneath the small dining table catches my attention, and I surmise it’s one of his critter friends. Because his space is completely open, he’s arranged everything in sections, as if there were invisible walls between them. I half wonder if there are. I don’t think anything would surprise me anymore.

Rex carried in the tote with our food, and he’s busy unpacking everything at the small kitchen area next to the table. I glance around, my gaze landing on the large bed, featuring a wood-hewn frame. The corners are anchored by heavy posts shaped into smooth, round pillars.

I recall none of these details. I was either so terrified that none of it registered, or my head was so fuzzy that the details evaporated. Probably a little of both.

Rex’s voice sounds next to me. “Sorry. I would’ve tidied up if I’d known you were coming over.”

It occurs to me that it was rather nervy to invite myself over the way I did. To be honest, I’ve spent so much time masturbating while thinking about Rex, I’ve reached the point that I need the real deal. Maybe not all of the real deal, but at least some of it.

Dining at a fancy place in Hot Springs wasn’t going to achieve my objective.

“Is it okay that I’m here?”

I’m counting on him feeling the same way I do. He’s probably been holding back because I’m human and have never been with a man. What a double whammy that one is.

Rex laughs shakily. “More than okay. I’ve been holding off on asking you over because, you know…”

I smile, relieved that we’re on the same page. “I know. But I’m okay with everything now. Everything.”

Rex’s eyes widen a bit. “Oh. Well, err, that’s great.”

He shoves his hands in his jeans pockets. He’s being so cute and shy, I’m starting to wonder if he’s a virgin or something.

I fiddle with the zipper on my hoodie. “Not that we have to…”

Oh brother. This is going well.

“You don’t want to?” Rex’s voice comes out soft.

“I totally want to.” Mine wasn’t soft at all.

Rex rubs the back of his neck and chuckles. “Why don’t we have something to eat first? I’m trying so hard not to pressure you, I’m making things worse.”

I move closer, stroking his arm as I gaze up at him. “I think it’s okay that we’re both nervous, .as long as we want the same thing. Right?”

He lowers his head and gives me a quick kiss. “You’re amazing, you know that?”

I have no idea what could possibly make me amazing, but I’ll take it.

We come up for air, and Rex claps his hands. “Okay, let me grab some plates and drinks. I have milk, soda, and beer.”

Part of me thinks I need the beer, but the other part says I don’t. Whatever happens between us tonight, I don’t want a single moment to be hazy. I want every sensation to be sharp and full of color.

“Any soda you have is fine, thanks.”