*** Rafael's POV ***
I had to talk my brothers out of inviting the whole family to Evelyn's. It's like they took their roles this afternoon to signal that she is part of our extended family, which cool but also hellsa intimidating for someone. But as I fret about overwhelming her, she takes it all in stride just as she did at the wedding.
As we wolf down pizza delivered from up the street, guzzle beer brought by Liam and Joel, and steal sweets from the tray Stacy meant as a welcome gift for Evelyn, it is hard to remember that she is a recent transplant and we barely know her. She laughs with us, quibbles with us, and just fits perfectly. And she makes it clear that while she appreciates everyone's efforts today, she is mine.
As Brian scoops a drowsy Becca into his arms and Lyra hugs Evelyn goodbye, I glance around and notice that only Christian seems to have the decency to realize he should be clearing out too. I walk over to where they are all spread out, lounging about like they own the place. "Time to clear out and let Evelyn get settled."
"She seems cool with us staying a little longer." Joel comments.
"Idiot, that's Rafael's gentle way of saying 'get the fuck out so I can get my dick sucked.' I got you, man." Liam nods to me with a knowing smirk.
"And now we know why Liam is single." Kevin remarks, standing and stretching.
"Do you think Evelyn has hot friends who are cool like she is?" Joel inquires. Liam nods enthusiastically, eager to know.
"If she does, they probably aren't looking for a pair of fuckboys." Christian taunts them.
I roll my eyes as they respectfully clean up after themselves at least. I hang back as they parade past Evelyn. She gives Christian and Kevin both hugs so then of course Liam and Joel want one too. I try to intervene, but Evelyn waves me off and gives them both hugs.
"You coming, Raf?" Kevin asks, knowing exactly what he is doing. Ass.
"In a bit. I'll see you guys this weekend." I stand my ground. Evelyn shows them out, instantly flopping on the couch when she returns.
"Your family is awesome, but I am drained." She observes.
I don't want to infringe on her anymore tonight. "I'm going to head out too."
She sits up abruptly. "Oh. Really?"
"I have work tomorrow and you had a stressful day." I answer and move in front of her on the couch.
She places her palms flat on my torso and runs her hands upward. She watches them move across the thin fabric of my t-shirt before she raises those eyes to meet mine. "I was hoping that you could help me destress a little bit."
God, it takes everything in me to decline. "I would love to, Eve. But I need a shower and you need rest."
She sighs as she stands and pats my chest. "You're right. I'm probably going to crash right after I shower."
"How about some company tomorrow night?" I suggest, rubbing the tension she is holding in her shoulders.
"Mmm. Only if you can do more of this tomorrow." She moans.
I lean in and kiss her neck right below her ear. "That can be arranged."
She wraps her arms around my neck and clings to me for a second. "Thank you so much for your help."
"It was nothing." I tell her, finding her lips. I keep the kiss soft and quick, knowing my resolve would be tested by anything more. "Good night, Evelyn."
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Oral Care
Dragoste*** COMPLETED STORY *** Evelyn is stubbornly resistant to fitting her family's model of perfect, demure wife material. She flees her hometown and an unwanted relationship to pursue her career and get away from their ridicule. Following a hot resort...
