A Few Steps To Your Heart

Chapter 41

After their passionate encounter, they both took a moment to clean up, and then Georgia found herself back on his lap. They relished in the aftermath of their intimacy. Georgia's blouse had a plunging neckline, offering a tantalizing view of her breasts that had Gavin's mind wandering back to how they felt in his hands and against his tongue. It ignited a wild desire within him, prompting him to keep her close as he trailed a finger along her collarbone and up her neck, savoring her through touch.

"I do wish I could give you something in return," she whispered, her voice filled with a soft longing. "You made me feel so good."

"Trust me, you've already given me so much," he confessed, his words causing her heart to race.

Leaning in, he planted a tender kiss on her neck before drawing back. "I will consider that invitation," he admitted.

"You will?" she asked, taken aback by the sudden change in his tone.

"I won't give an answer right away, but I will give it some thought."

"That's all I'm asking," she replied with a grateful smile.

"I still think you should go back," he said, concern evident in his voice, "to your school."

"I was actually thinking of taking more time off. I know it might create some financial problems, but the weeks are slipping by, and I'm uncertain if I'm ready," she whispered, revealing her inner turmoil.

"You could continue working here," he suggested, puzzled by her response.

She shook her head, leaving Gavin perplexed. "I won't accept money for spending time with my boyfriend."

"Oh, so I am your boyfriend," he teased, a hint of amusement in his voice.

"I know we didn't discuss it, and it's fine if you're not there yet, but—"

He silenced her with a kiss, eager to put a label on their relationship. Georgia had been by his side for weeks now, and he cherished her presence. He wanted her around all the time, a stark contrast to his previous desire for solitude.

"Trust me, I have no intention of seeing anyone else," he admitted sincerely.

"Me neither, which is why I want your mother to stop paying me," she declared, her determination evident.

"You need the money, especially for your medication," he reminded her, concern etching his features.

Georgia shrugged, visibly offended by his words. "I will figure something else out. It's weird being paid to spend time with you now."

"Georgia, be smart about this."

"I'm not?" she asked, her tone laced with hurt, clearly taking offense at his suggestion.

"I was just saying—"

"You called me dumb," she reminded him.

"Let me finish my sentence," he urged.

"No, because I know what you're going to say, and I don't agree," she retorted. "I won't accept payment anymore for being around you."

"But you won't go back to your old job either, and then what?" he asked, concern etched across his face. "You'll have no money for your medication, your rent. Have you thought this through?"

"It feels like you're lecturing me on how to live my life," she said, an edge to her voice. "I have savings."

"Yes, but medical expenses can quickly deplete those savings. You know how this country works. There's so little help available."

"I know, but maybe I could find other part-time jobs. Heck, maybe I should even work with my dad," she suggested.

Gavin shook his head. "I know that would mean you'd have to commute a significant distance, and that would only make you busier."

"Are you worried I won't have time for you?" she teased, a playful glint in her eyes.

"Go back to school, Georgia, or let me cover your medication costs."

"No, that would create a debt I don't want."

"But it's a way to repay you. You've brought happiness back into my life. Shouldn't I return the favor?"

She shook her head. "Our meeting was unusual. Let's not complicate it. I'll manage."

***

As evening fell, Georgia got ready to leave, but Gavin had an idea. He pulled her back onto the couch, leaving her puzzled.

"What?" she asked.

"Stay the night?" he suggested.

"What?" She was surprised.

"Why not? Shouldn't we give it a try?"

Georgia was taken aback by the idea, but she liked it. She nodded, then shook her head, a mix of emotions showing.

"Was that a yes or no?" Gavin asked, both sharing a small laugh.

"I want to, but I haven't packed."

"Use my shirt," he playfully offered.

"I meant a toothbrush and such."

"Borrow one."

"How about tomorrow? I'll pack and stay overnight," she proposed.

Gavin smiled, embracing the idea. Georgia kissed him before saying goodbye and leaving his room. She found Gavin's mother in the kitchen, preparing dinner for her and her husband, who was on his way home.

"Oh, Georgia, I can't express my gratitude. Your payment is due soon, but I wanted to pay in advance," she said, pointing to an envelope.

"As I told Gavin, I won't accept more money," Georgia replied.

Martha looked puzzled, pausing her vegetable chopping. "Are you quitting?" she asked.

"No, it feels strange taking money from Gavin's mother, given our situation. I mean... I'm..." Georgia's cheeks flushed slightly.

"I don't know your relationship, but your parents mentioned this job was good for you in many ways. Are you sure about refusing the extra help I have for you?" Martha asked.

"I'm sure. It would be awkward."

"Are you sure?" Martha asked again.

"I am. I'll come by tomorrow."

Martha nodded, but Georgia knew it was hard to turn down assistance. She was even tempted to accept Gavin's offer to cover her medication, given her financial strain. However, she didn't want money to dictate their relationship. It had to come from the heart if they were to build something meaningful.