Broken Beginnings

Chapter 13

Chloe

I woke to the feel of Galen’s legs tangled with mine. His warmth made my entire body feel toasty and content. Galen was lying on his back and I was pressed against his side, my face against his chest. The suns golden rays spilled into the room and I sighed. I couldn’t remember waking up so content. It had been a long time since I found a peace like this. And I knew it was because of the man who had wrapped me up in his arms – coming to my rescue for what felt like the billionth time. I couldn’t figure out what it was about me that had Galen running to calm me whenever I seemed riled, but I was thankful for him. He had come to me at just the right time – saving me from the darkness in my own mind. He fought my fears and offered me sanctuary in his home – in his arms – in his heart.

I could only hope it stayed this way. I could handle his arms around me and I could handle his heart caring for me – but I couldn’t give him permission to move inside me. Not physically and not emotionally. I had felt his desire for me the night before, and although it had me feeling nervous – I hadn’t been afraid. And Galen hadn’t made a move for anything more. After pressing his lips against my hair, he had settled down against my pillow, tucking my head beneath his chin. He had held me with no expectations for more and for that, I had found complete comfort. I fell into sleep and didn’t wake again until now. I didn’t have another nightmare either. I had slept peaceful as a newborn baby.

I wriggled myself from beneath Galen’s heavy frame and he groaned. I froze, feeling suddenly insecure in the light of day. I wasn’t wearing much for clothing. The thought of him seeing me in my underwear made me cringe. I sat on the edge of the bed, my heart pounding. I was afraid to look behind me and see him staring at me – waiting for me to stand.

“Good morning, babe.” His voice was gruff, touched by sleep.

I peeked over my shoulder. “Morning,” I offered a smile. “Close your eyes.”

He raised a brow, folding his arms behind his head. “Why would I do that?”

“Because I asked you to.”

“But why?”

“Because I’m not wearing pants.”

He grinned and my stomach muscles clenched. God – he really was attractive. With his strong jaw, kissable lips and cobalt eyes – the man was like sex in a package. If I ever ordered sex, I imagine the delivery would consist of Galen in all his sexy splendor.

At the thought, I frowned. I was so not going there. Nope, not going to happen. Galen must have read my frown as something directed to him because he relented. “All right.” He muttered on a sigh. “I’ll close my eyes.”

“Thank you.” With that, I jumped up from the bed and ran to the bathroom. I closed the door and heard a laugh from the other side of the door. A disgruntled groan sounded from deep in my throat as I opened the door, poking my head outside. “What are you laughing at?”

“You have the cutest little ass, babe.” He was still lying in my bed with his hands behind his back. Well, technically it was his bed – but the man didn’t have a right to look at my ass while I made my escape. And the bed was mine for as long as I was here with the intent to pay rent! The rat!

“You said you would close your eyes.”

“I did.” He sounded smug. “But then I opened them.”

Technicalities. “You’re a jerk.” I closed the bathroom door, making a point of locking it behind me. “You can go to your own bedroom now.” I called. “I don’t think I’ll be needing you for anything else.”