CHAPTER 17

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JUSTINE

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JUSTINE

A little sting on my nipple roused me from sleep, and I realized Jayden had unconsciously latched onto my right nipple, sucking on it in his sleep. He wasn't kidding when he said he loves my tits-he's been acting like a baby since yesterday.

Gently, I pulled it out of his mouth because it was sore from his attention all night. Honestly, though, I didn't mind. I would have even adjusted myself for him to switch to the other one, but I didn't want to wake him just yet. He had told me he barely slept, and he seemed to be resting peacefully now.

Taking the opportunity, I studied his features-his bushy brows, his gorgeous chiseled face that looked so innocent and stress-free in sleep. He was practically hiding in the crook of my neck. I adjusted him slightly, tracing the line of his nose that complemented his face so perfectly, down to his plump lips that knew mine so well, always saying exactly what I needed to hear to soothe me.

My fingers moved to his neck, tracing the tattoos on his chest. Some of them I could guess the meanings of, others were a mystery, but one day, I'd ask him about them. I knew he had one for his mother and two matching ones with his best friends in Italy; the others were stories waiting to be told. I couldn't help but smile as I watched him sleep.

It feels so good to finally be official. Today, I'm going to strut into school hand-in-hand with my man and confirm the rumors. This will be the first time we walk in together because until now, I've let him drop me off at the entrance, and we've gone to classes separately since we started dating. I can't wait to see the looks of envy, the broken-hearted expressions on the faces of girls who wanted him-practically all the girls at school. Jayden is mine, and I'm not letting anyone take him away. I'm the jealous girlfriend, but not the crazy, possessive type. I just protect what's mine.

I walked into the bathroom, impressed once again with the interior. The penthouse was stunning, though it could use a feminine touch, but I must admit it suits his grumpy self perfectly. My thoughts drifted to how quiet and observant he is around others, yet a big talker with me, depending on the situation, and I love that about him.

Honestly, I'm falling deeper every day, and I can't bring myself to think about the what-ifs. I love what we have, and I hope we keep getting stronger. I noticed a lighter look gradually replacing the haunted expression I saw in his eyes during our first encounter in the hallway. I know we need to have some difficult conversations, but for now, I'm happy with the way things are.

I picked up the extra toothbrush near his and brushed my teeth, then started lathering up with his shower gel. The scent reminded me so much of him; I'm definitely stealing two or three of his shirts to sleep in so I can wrap myself in his smell.

My thoughts drifted to yesterday-how he supported me through everything, how good he made me feel. We haven't done the deed yet and haven't even gotten too hot and heavy because we've both been busy and enjoying getting to know each other, but our kisses are always intense. Yesterday was a big step. I feel like I've unleashed his naughty side, but I have some naughty ideas up my sleeves too, and I can't wait to make him feel good in return.

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