Page 105 of For One Night

Lola dozes off on the way home. I’m still shaking thinking about her being alone through this whole thing. She was so embarrassed about it too. I’ll never understand, it’s not like any woman plans it.

I pull into her drive, circling around so she can be closer to her place. I park, climbing out as quietly as possible. I open the door slowly. If she doesn’t wake up, I’ll carry her in.

Leaning over her, I unbuckle her belt and pat her pockets for her keys. My face is inches from hers. I look down and back up to find her smiling at me.

“Do you often inspect women in your car?”

“Only the pretty ones.” I twist my mouth, trying not to smile. “You feel like walking?”

“Yes, I’m sorry I fell asleep so quickly.” She rubs her eyes.

I hold my hand out for her. “Come on, let’s get you inside.”

“I’ll never be able to repay you.”

“I’ll think of something.” I close the door and tuck her hand in my arm, helping her to the door.

She blushes. “You’re killing here.”

“So now isn’t the time for a tickle fight?” I pout at her.

She laughs loudly, covering her mouth. “Oh, shit. It’s early. My neighbors are going to hate me.”

“They’ll get over it.”

“I’ll just have to send you out shirtless to toss the trash.” She waggles her brows as we walk up her steps.

My head spins. “Are you supposed to wear clothes when you do that?”

“Please, don’t make me laugh.” She places her key in and turns the knob. “Thank you again.”

I blanch. “I’m coming in.”

“What? Why?” The corner of her mouth twitches.

“I’m not leaving you alone until I know you’re going to be alright.”

Her gaze drops. “Are you sure?”

“I am.” I push the door open, helping her in, and closing it behind us. “So what do you need first?”

Her face turns bright red. “A shower and then I’ll start the laundry.”

“Let me help you.” I kneel, taking her sneakers off. “Bathroom?”

She points over her shoulder. “This way.”

“Show me.” She latches onto my arm as we walk slowly to the shower.

She steps in, turning to look at me. “I’m good.”

“Your papers say you’ll continue to battle dizziness, so I’m not going anywhere; get over it.” Her eyes widen. “I know your body better than you do, drop them.” I step around her, turning on the water and letting it heat.

As I turn back, her head is down as she covers herself. I avert my eyes, holding my hand out. “I’m not wanting to embarrass you more. I only want to take care of you, so let me.”

“I have sweats in my closet and panties in the top drawer.” She grips my hand and steps into the shower, closing the door.

I pick her clothes up, shut the door behind me, and go in search of her washing machine. Tossing her things in, I add my hoodie and start it. I traipse through her place in search of comfort clothes.