One Temptation

Velvet and Bruises (Chapter 69)

West POV:

The door clicked shut behind me with a thud.

The final meeting for the camp was over and I've never been more relieved. They had been dragged on for too long with no absolute reason.

Every coach had a different opinion, every captain wanted something changed, and my head had been nodding more out of habit than agreement. 

But it was done. Finally. The camp was locked in. Booked, sorted, finalized. One more thing off the growing list. 

The field was confirmed, the events were confirmed, everything that would happen as entertainment was in place. And the schedule had been revised three goddamn times until it was perfect.

I ran a hand through my hair, trying to shake loose the tightness in my shoulders. My whole body ached. Training this morning had been brutal, and then someone had the genius idea to play tag—which was just code for "beat the shit out of West because he's fast." I'd taken at least twelve knees to the ribs and seven punches that may or may not have left a bruise.

It was the end of the day, and I've never been more relieved. I needed a break from all of this bullshit, and to make it a million times better, Mads was coming over. Even just the thought of it had me smiling to myself like an idiot.

God, this girl.

I started thinking about her every time my mind wanders. Even in the meeting every time I zoned out I was thinking about my perfect girlfriend. And I couldn't stop. It was a fucking problem. A good one — a very hot problem.

The way she rolls her eyes at me and still smiles after. The way she looks in the morning, tired eyes, curls a mess, and still the most beautiful thing I've ever seen. Or maybe it's that hot as attitude. Yea, definitely that. Or maybe it's the way she moaned my name and gripped the sheets, as my face was buried between her legs.

I'd do anything for that girl. Actually. Anything.

Even wait. Even though I've seen her. Tasted her. Felt her shaking under me, gripping at my arms like it's the only thing tethering her to earth. I'd wait a lifetime if she asked.

Fuck.

I was so gone.

I'd do anything for her. Anything. 

I'd wait however long she needed. I'd deal with the secrets and the goddamn pressure building in my chest because of everything she doesn't know yet. I'd stay up all night with her if she asked. I'd drop everything just to see her safe. I'd take the heat from everyone if it meant she didn't have to. 

I'd walk through fire barefoot if it meant seeing her smile — not once, but over and over, until the pain felt like a memory. Every blister would be worth it just to watch her face light up, knowing I was the reason. And I'd do it all with a smile, because her happiness has always been my favorite kind of ache.

Because no matter how much we argued, and teased each other. She felt like home. Even before we made it official. 

I would've rather fought with her than be at peace with anyone else. I'd call her annoying with a mouth that would beg if she ever walked away. She could literally ruin every part of me she touches, and I still keep hoping she'll touch more.

I was fucking whipped.

The hallway turned a corner, and I had to take a breath to bring myself back to reality. I was almost at the front entrance when I caught the flicker of movement to my left.