Page 18 of Never Till Now

I know I’ve been neglecting Mallory this week and I know Lauren doesn’t do well on a personal level. But if this situation is bothering Lauren, then she is one hell of an Oscar-winning actress. I still don’t know her well enough to know if she has an ulterior motive.

“You can’t kick this adorable child out. She wants time with her uncle.” A laugh radiates in Lauren, and I commit the beautiful sounds to memory. “Also, she’d probably win any debate you throw at her.”

“Mamma says I’d make a good lawyer.” Mallory smiles.

“You do whatever makes you happy, Mals.” My tone is serious when she talks about her future. The last thing I want is for her to end up even more indoctrinated in this life if her free-spirited soul doesn’t want it.

“A job isn’t worth doing if it gives no joy or purpose to you,” Lauren adds and gently brushes the hair out of Mallory’s face.

How maternal for someone who doesn’t want love.

“I’m pressing play now.” Mallory digs into the popcorn and becomes transfixed by the screen.

Thirty minutes later, Mallory is passed out against my arm. I watch her even breaths as her bunny is clenched to her chest. With her daily high energy, I’m surprised she made it until eight thirty. Lauren brushes Mallory’s hair out of her face again and smiles at me.

“I’m going to head home. Thank you for the food and laughs.” She stands up and I go to move. “I can let myself out. I don’t want her to wake up.”

“Sorry again for the interruption. She’s very persistent.”

“It’s a good quality to have. Please don’t ever apologize for putting a child first. She has clearly missed you this week.” Her smile is warm and hits me hard in the chest. “I’ll text you tomorrow if you want to get together.” She winks and heads out the door.

I carry Mallory to the guest bed and call it an early night myself.

I picked up the box my cousin left at the lobby counter. I sent a thank-you text for the favor since I didn’t want to wait on shipping. The overcast sky dulled everything besides my attitude. Lauren was beyond sweet with Mallory last night. I smile as I enter the ice cream shop and replay my morning with Mallory. She repeated on a loop how much she liked Lauren. Mallory had spent all morning until she left, going over her plans to tell everyone in school how she met a real princess. I pull out my phone and wait for an answer.

“Hey, are you home? I’m walking around the corner if you want to hang out.”

“Yeah, I’ll buzz you up.” Her voice seems rushed.

She opens the door, standing fresh faced with her hair piled on top of her head. Her smile is sleepy as my eyes drop to her long bare legs and T-shirt, covering just below her ass. I question if lingerie will even turn me on the same way this has got me going. Her knee bends forward and her hip pops to the side as she opens the door wider. I walk through her place, unapologetically eye fucking her as I set the items on the counter.

“I woke up from a nap and didn’t have time to get ready.” Her cheeks hold a tinge of red as she tries to fix her lopsided hair.

Her blush is fucking adorable. My hands rest on her hips and I shake my head. Her sweet scent engulfs my senses. “You look hot as hell right now. Don’t apologize. You work tomorrow night, right?”

“Yeah, I have four shifts this week.”

“I picked up some ice cream on the way here.”

Her teeth clasp down on her bottom lip, but I refrain from tugging on it. I watch curiosity fill her green eyes as they linger over the smooth silver box and ribbon. I smirk as her mouth parts when she realizes where it’s from. She doesn’t say a word.

“This is for you.” I hand over the box.

“I-I can’t accept this.” Her fingers brush over the La Perla letters. “You really don’t have to replace my underwear.”

“I wanted to. I’m well aware how much our shower cost you. Plus…” I flash my charming smile. “It’s a gift for me too, if you choose. Though right now, you’re looking extremely delectable like this.”

“Adam.” Her voice was laced with concern.

Her fingers play with the satin ribbon as if she’s debating whether to open it or hand it back.

“It’s just me being a man of my word,” I assure her. “I told you I would replace the panties, and I did. I also came across another item that matched perfectly. Please, just open the box.”

Her eyes go wide as she pulls out the delicate emerald-green lingerie set. The smooth fabric lies perfectly as she places the bra and panties on the counter.

“You really didn’t have to.” Her head shakes and I know right then, she’s not using me for my money. “They’re beautiful, but I don’t need any gifts. Especially at that price.”

“The green matches your eyes.” I bring my hands up to cradle her jaw. “I had to replace what I ruined. As for the other piece, consider it a birthday gift.”