Chapter 113
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Would you like to come in for a drink? The words popped out before I could stop them. “I mean, just for a few minutes, I have orange juice and water.”
His face lit up with surprise and pleasure. I’d like that.”
My apartment felt smaller with Derek in it, but not uncomfortably so. He settled into my small couch while I went to the kitchen, grateful to have a moment to collect myself.
The evening had been so intense, so full of new experiences and emotions, that felt like I needed to catch my breath.
I grabbed two glasses and the orange juice from my tiny around with genuine interest rather than judgment.
gerator, t
trying to organize my thoughts. When i returned to the living room, Derek was looking
“Your place is… he started, then paused.
“Small, I finished for him, settling into the chair across from my
dining
table. “I know.”
་
Derek looked surprised, then shook his head quickly. “No, no, that’s not what I was going to say at all.”
I waited, curious about his actual impression.
‘I was going to say your place is really nice and put together. It looks simple, but it has this homey feeling to it. Like it belongs to someone who knows what
they want.”
His words made something warm unfurl in my chest. “Really? That’s exactly why I picked it. It reminds me of the good old days, when things felt simpler.”
“I can see that,” Derek said, taking a sip of his juice. “There’s something peaceful about it.”
“Whenever I take a deep breath here, I feel like there isn’t any problem in the world that can’t be solved,” I found myself explaining, surprised by how easy it
was to talk to him.
I wasn’t usually someone who enjoyed small talk with virtual strangers, but Derek had this way of listening that made me feel heard rather than judged. Maybe that’s why Tristan had chosen him as a friend.
Tristan. Why did my mind keep circling back to him?
‘You’re amazing, Derek said suddenly, pulling me out of my thoughts.
I looked up at him, confused. “What?”
Both of us were still smiling from our conversation, the atmosphere relaxed and comfortable.
“It’s rare to see someone who loves the little things the way you do,” he continued.
‘Most people, especially women, get caught up in flashy things, expensive things. But you’re like the only person I’ve met in ages who appreciates simple pleasures.
The feel of a motorcycle, the smell of your home, the way a place makes you feel safe. When you talk about those things, you get this bright, genuine smile that’s just…” He trailed off, searching for words.
“Thanks for the compliment,” I said, feeling heat creep up my cheeks.
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Chapter 113
It’s not a compliment, it’s just the truth.”
Okay, thanks for complimenting me with the truth,” I said, and both of us burst to laughter at the silly exchange.
But our laughter cut off abruptly when a knock came at the door.
Derek and I looked at each other, the mood shifting instantly from relaxed to alert.
Are you expecting anyone?” he asked quietly.
林念32%份
I glanced at the clock on my wall. It was after nine o’clock, well past the time when Orion, Sarah, or even Tristan would typically visit. None of them would show up this late without calling first.
“No,” I said, my voice dropping to match his volume. I have no idea who that could be.”
I started to get up to answer the door, but Derek was already on his feet, moving to position himself between me and the door
shield.
f protective
The gesture was both touching and slightly irritating, I appreciated the thought, but I wasn’t helpless.
Comments
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blackmoonsage
jeez he was making sure your safe even if you can defend yourself a men has more strength two is better then
one
7 days ago
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The Biker Alpha Who Became My Second Chance Mate
