Blessing in Disguise (MM)

Chapter Thirty Two

NICK'S POV

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I make a conscious effort to leave work early this week because it's Elodie's birthday on Sunday and I'm set on making an effort with her. Especially after missing her performance that I can't seem to forget out of guilt weighing me down like an anchor.

But at the same time, I want the excuse to see Aris too.

He sticks around for an hour or two before giving us the evening to ourselves. I miss him in my bed. God. That's an understatement. I need him in my bed.

Elodie doesn't know about what's been going on between us. But since our little sleepover, not much has happened between us. I have loud memories of Aris dry fucking me until we both came in our boxers. I haven't even had a singular kiss since then, Elodie's eyes are always wandering and I'm not sure if I should tell her about Aris just yet.

It's Friday and I'm relieved the week is over. Even if I've been leaving early too.

"Els," Aris calls out to my daughter as she plays with her sticker book. He reaches for his bag and beckons her over. "I've got something for you."

She runs like lightning. I grab myself a drink and perch beside Aris as she stares at him like he's got a bucket full of sweets. "What is it?" she chews on her lips in anticipation and attempts to look in his bag.

"I know your birthday is on Sunday," he speaks slowly and her eyes burst with excitement. "And I may or may not have gotten you a present."

Elodie squeals. "No, you did!"

I flick my eyes between them and adore the way Aris beams at my girl. "Did I? Have you been snooping around my bag?"

"No! But I'd expect a present. It is my birthday."

Aris barks out a laugh and my lips curl into a smile. Always demanding. "Alright, alright," he rolls his eyes playfully. "Maybe I did get you a present. But do you want to open it today with me here or on your birthday?"

Elodie glances at me for the answer. "You want to open it here with Aris?" I ask.

She nods. "Pleaseeeeee."

"Okay. Go on."

"Yes!" She hisses through her teeth and pulls her arms down into fists.

Aris reaches into his bag and pulls out a rectangular present that is wrapped with pink and yellow wrapping paper. I study how neat it is and nod in appreciation. "Nice wrapping," I comment with raised brows.

"Thanks. YouTube is a life saver." He drops his eye into a wink and I melt.

My eyes float down to his lips as he draws his teeth over the bottom one slowly. Holy fuck. I need him now. All the oxygen in my body is about to evaporate if I don't have him soon. It's been five long days–and counting.

He hands the present over to Elodie who practically tears it apart out of pure excitement. I smile as I watch her hold the gift in her hands. "Wow," she exhales.

I lean over trying to get a better look. "What is it?"

"It's full of make-up!" She exclaims. "It's exactly what I wanted. Aris, you remembered!"

Aris turns to me with concerned eyes. "Children's make-up. It's mostly eyeshadow and lip gloss."

I resist the urge to grab his hand and reassure him of his kindness. "You don't have to explain the present to me. Elodie loves it. Just no wearing any of this to school, it's for home only."