Page 131 of Made Better Together

“It’s okay.” However, my body feels like a noodle.

He must’ve picked up on that because… “I’m going to carry you to the hot tub, okay?”

That sounds like a delight. The carrying and the hot tub. “Mmmhmm.”

As he lifts me up, I shut my eyes again, resting my head against his bare chest. Once we’re next to the water, I can hear the whirl of the engine making the bubbles. He must have turned it on earlier.

I crack open my eyes, and he’s stepping us into the hot tub. “I’m going to place you in the water slowly.”

My feet hit the water first. It’s warm but a comfortable heat. “It feels fine.” He responds by dipping me down more, until I’m sitting on a step, positioning my back to a jet.

“Still good?” He pushes his glasses in place as he looks me over.

“Yeah, it’s nice on my back.” I hold out my hand and smile at him. “Come here.”

He grins. “Oh, I’m going to.” He settles right next to me, our bodies touching along our sides.

His hand comes over to my knee. “I put a water on the corner there. Can you drink it for me?”

I do as he says, and when I’m done, he takes the bottle. I’m cozy where I am, but curious if he has anything else planned, I glance his way.

I get the answer a second later. “I’m going to put you on my lap. It’s to take care of you more, not anything else.”

“Sounds good.” I’m actually grateful he’s being so thoughtful about this part.

He lifts me on top of his thighs, and I can feel his stiff erection bobbing against my back. But he said this part is about my aftercare, and he seems to be ignoring it, so I do too.

He glides his hands up from my hips to my shoulders. “I’ve never given a massage, so tell me if you like this.”

He starts rubbing me with his fingertips, and he isn’t bad for a novice. I start melting in the hot tub for different reasons. Who knew Connor could be so sweet?

“This feels amazing…Sir.” I don’t know if I’m supposed to use that nickname during this part, but his pleased grunt in reply confirms he likes it.

Then he moves his hands up my neck. “Is this too much?”

I shake my head no. His gentle motions, as I get to enjoy the colors of the sunset, are glorious.

Then he moves his hands up to my scalp. It might be the most luscious experience of my life. But it’s so calming, I’m worried I might nap on him here in a second.

“Sir…I…this is amazing, but I might fall asleep. Can we go back to the apartment?”

He kisses the back of my neck. “Yes, if you prefer. I brought towels.”

Ten minutes later, he’s carried me down to the olive couches in the condo, taking a second trip to grab our things while I lounge.

Wrapped in a plush, blue towel, right where I want to be.

37

CONNOR

This morning is better than the last time Eden slept over.

Because, even though it’s almost nine, she’s still here, asleep in my bed. Looking so content.

I put on my glasses and roll over toward her as slowly as I can. Watching her breathe in and out. Her honey hair spread out on my pillow, shifting slightly as she inhales and exhales.

Waking up next to her is better than the best dream I’ve ever had. And I don’t want it to end.