Our Deep End | ✔️

CHAPTER 58

Christian's POV

With the way I've been pacing around my living room all morning, I'm genuinely shocked that the dark hardwood floors remain intact underneath my feet.

As promised, today I'm joining Elle at lunch with Esme's family. I don't regret my decision, I can't imagine not being there for Elle. But still, the nerves in my body do not relent.

My phone chimes loudly, interrupting my frenzy of thoughts, and I look down to find a text from Elle saying she's outside. I can't hold back a chuckle at the irony of this moment. It's usually me who drives us everywhere, but today she insisted that we trade places. I didn't want to, but Elle has a certain special way of convincing me.

With one final breath of angst, I grab all my shit and head out the door.

"I must say...you look incredible behind the wheel." I whistle, every ounce of nerves disappearing from my body once my eyes land on the most beautiful girl on the planet.

Sitting in the driver's seat, clutching the steering wheel, Elle looks up at me with an angelic smile. She wears a light flush that flatters her beautiful, tanned skin.

"Why thank you."

I waste no time, and pull her in for a kiss once I take a seat beside her.

"Let's just hope you drive as good as you look." I tease, buckling up.

"Why must you always diss my driving skills?" She asks, pulling off from the block.

"Well, you did fail your road test three times so...there's that."

"Actually, it was only twice. I passed on the third try." She replies matter-of-factly, and all I can offer is a chuckle in response.

"Alright, I stand corrected." My hands fly up in surrender, which initiates a fit of laughter between the both of us.

"You're not as bad of a driver as I thought, although I still prefer to be the one who gives you a nice ride."

Her subtle flush deepens at my words, leaving me thrilled that I still have that impact on her.

"Maybe after we get through this afternoon, you can show me what you mean by that."

Sideway glances are shared between us, anticipation and excitement clashing together in the best way. Suddenly, imagery of our naked, sweaty bodies tangled together stamps my brain.

"Why wait?"

After the car pulls swiftly into a large driveway surrounded by golden gates, and stops, I grip Elle's chin with my fingers, forcing her to face me.

"I will gladly fuck you in the backseat. Just say the word."

I'm partially joking. Sex is one of the last things on my mind right now, but I'm always in the mood for some Elle. And when I say always, I mean always. Plus, it would be a great stress reliever.

The flush on her cheeks deepen.

"My...windows aren't tinted." She stumbles over her words, which causes my smirk to expand.

"Shame. We could've gotten all steamy like Jack and Rose." I joke, and she laughs in return.

I have no idea what to expect from today, but before I know it, Elle and I are walking hand in hand towards the front door. I feel my nerves attempting to make a sly return, but I quickly bring them back under my control. It's going to be hard to remind myself that today is not about snooping, or trying to play detective. Today is about closure. Despite the fact that I've spent the past year and a half looking into Esme's life, trying to piece together our connection, I realized that I don't actually know anything about her. I can describe the most bizarre and oddly specific facts about her I've gained through research but I don't even know her favorite color. Or her favorite food...what hobbies she enjoyed. Above all, Esme was a normal human being, not a walking crime case and right now I would give anything to have known her. But hopefully today is a step in the right direction.