“So, are you really going to leave them?” I ask for the third time.
“As long as Riot pulls it off. They can’t make claims on a man they think is dead.”
“It just seems so…extreme,” I finish lamely, and he shrugs.
“You don’t leave the Iron Elite, Kin. And I don’t think the new woman in my life will appreciate the shit those fuckers do.”
Funny how things change?
I already ate earlier so I have a small plate, my attention focused on him rather than the food. I hate that he was hurt while rescuing me, the bandages that cover his arm and shoulder a constant reminder. As much as I hate it, I can’t deny there’s some kind of rugged appeal. He confided to me that first night we were together again how much he hates his scars.
That’s when I finally got to kiss each and every one.
I think he believes me now that I don’t care about them, but I still plan to do it again. And again.
I could never get sick of this man’s body.
As I watch his face I can’t help but notice the knotted brow. I know he’s worried about next week, I mean, it's fair, considering he’s trying to fake his own death and all, but I have a feeling there’s more to it than that. I reach out to put a hand on his arm.
“What’s going on in your head?” I ask him softly.
He shakes his head, and I smack his arm lightly.
“Come on, tell me.”
After a moment, he sighs, holding his arms out.
“What the fuck kind of life is it I live,” he begins. “Not only am I an immoral cunt, but I don’t even have a decent fucking roof for you. After next week, if Riot pulls it off, I won’t have anything. Kinsey, how—”
I stand abruptly, interrupting him with my hands on my hips.
“Do you really think that matters to me?”
He frowns. “Well—”
“Do I really seem like the kind of girl who wants pretty things?”
“No, but—”
“Did I say I would stay with you?”
He nods slowly, reaching a hand out for me. The expression of need on his face breaks my heart. The corner of my mouth turns up and I take it, squealing, as he pulls me to his lap.
“Then stop worrying about it,” I finish, giggling as he starts to nibble at my neck. “Besides, I’ll need to see your bedroom for myself before I decide if it’ll be sufficient, don’t you think?”
That’s all the prompting he needs.
48
Atlas
Sex on Fire
The smileon her face is brilliant as I lead her to the shitty bed I call my own. I wish I could give her the world. Lush beds, jewels, flowers, and all the things a girl like her deserves.
I don’t know what the fuck I did to deserve her, but she doesn’t want any of that. She only wants me.
I may not understand it, but I won’t fucking question it.