and it was perfect

Chapter 21

I went to bed shortly after; before he could send me away himself. That way, it felt more like the power was in my hands. I laid down and could still feel his finger between my things. How on earth could a guy be so amazing at anything he did.

The following week felt like a dream. During the day, he treated me like any other roommate. We ran in mostly silence and sometimes boxed together. But at night ... he wasn't kidding when he said he'd only have to get used to it; soon, he was back to his usual stamina, and I not once left the room unsatisfied. It was perfect.

Even my sweet little girl realized I was happier than usual when I babysat her one night. "You look pretty when you smile." Isobel patted my cheek with her little hand and beamed at me. Her little blonde curls and dimples were so adorable. I hugged her tightly. "So do you, pumpkin."

Finally, the new parts for my car came in, and he promised to start working on it after classes in the next few days. When he told me in front of the others at the dining table, all I wanted to do was jump on his lap and kiss him, but as I couldn't do it, I just beamed at him and gave him the most grateful smile.

I couldn't wait to have my car back and was so grateful he'd make me save so much money. He replied with a smile. Then the look in his eyes changed for a split second to something I couldn't read, and he returned his attention to the others.

When Gene asked me a few minutes later if I wanted to go out tonight, I hesitated but finally agreed. Aiden would be busy with work and the gym anyway, so I'd be free. I should have known that it was useless, though. The club was much better than expected; I drank a little and had a great time. I did my best whenever a guy approached me and even let one of them buy me a drink and talk at the bar, but none of them could compare to Aiden, so I excused myself again.

When I finally came back, Aiden's Jeep wasn't there. It was way after one; he wouldn't be at the gym anymore. Josh was still awake, sitting on the couch. I hesitated for a second, but my curiosity was too strong. "Hey, I thought you and Aiden went to the gym together," I asked, trying to sound as casual as possible. He didn't even look up. "We did; he left an hour ago saying something important came up." – "Oh, okay. Well have a good night." I answered neutrally and got ready for bed.

Something important came up? I didn't think he would've said that if he had gone out to have sex with someone. Josh was one of his best friends; he would have told him. I tried not to overthink it, but it kept me up half the night.

He didn't return until late morning; I had already finished my run, so I wouldn't miss classes. He looked tired when he got in. I gave him the half-full coffee I held when he sat down at the dining table. "Are you okay?" I quietly asked. He rubbed a hand through his face once, then gave me a quick smile and nodded. "Sure. Just a car emergency." It didn't reach his eyes; I knew he was lying, but I did my best not to show him. I was still sure he wouldn't have broken our agreement, and he didn't want to talk about what happened. I just had to accept it.

As no one else was around, I stroked his hand a little. He looked up at me, exhausted, but once again, I saw a hint of that weird look in his eyes. "I'm good, Jen." I nodded and got up. I was late for classes. "How is the car doing?" I casually asked, knowing he started fixing it last night. "It's quite a mess, actually. I hate to tell you, but your car kinda sucks." It made me laugh. I was fully aware that my rusty Nissan was way past its due date. "I know. I'm sorry you must deal with it; I just can't afford a new one." He shrugged and watched me putting on my shoes. "It's fine. It will only take a few days."

Then I had an idea. "Hey, can I help you somehow with it? Like ... I don't know ... holding a lamp?" I had zero knowledge about cars. Now he was the one laughing. It felt great to hear it after that exhausted look on his face before. "I don't know if you'd actually be helpful or just be in my way." I playfully acted hurt and held my chest. He grinned. But then he hesitated. "But maybe ... yeah, maybe you could hold up some wires while I'm swapping the tube. It would go faster than doing it myself." I smiled. "Sure, let me know when to meet you there." He nodded, and we said goodbye.