Total pages in book: 25
Estimated words: 22364 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 112(@200wpm)___ 89(@250wpm)___ 75(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 22364 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 112(@200wpm)___ 89(@250wpm)___ 75(@300wpm)
“I was actually doubting my choice; I wasn’t sure you’d want lasagna.” I cocked my head and he added, “I don’t know many people who eat like this and look like that.” He gave my body another glance, making my heart pound. I thought I noticed his cheeks pink before he turned around and hurried to retrieve two plates from the cabinet.
Thrilled he noticed but not wanting to draw attention to it, I replied, “I watch what I eat most days, but I definitely splurge now and then. Especially when it’s on something this delicious.”
Richmond faced me again and served two heaping portions onto our plates. “I need to do better about watching my diet; my metabolism isn’t what it used to be.”
“I think you look fantastic.” His figure had spread and softened a bit over the years, but it only made him more delectable in my eyes. His frame promised warm embraces and pillowed cuddles; things I fantasized about often.
“Thanks,” he whispered as his blush returned. I hoped I didn’t make him uncomfortable. He was unaware of my feelings for him, and I knew I had to take things slowly, but I wasn’t going to shy away from complimenting him. “I might have to hit you up for some workout tips, though.”
“I’d love to go to the gym with you sometime.” I didn’t think he needed to change a damn thing about himself, but I’d never turn down time together; especially sharing something I enjoyed.
“That sounds great,” he smiled as he pushed a loaded plate in front of me.
I scooped up a big bite and moaned as it passed my lips. “This is straight out of a wet dream.”
Richmond’s stomach jerked as he laughed. “I’m glad I haven’t lost it.” He gleefully watched as I shoveled in a few more bites. “You are quite the cook as well. You said you learned in college; did you take a class?”
I shook my head no as I swallowed. “I watched a ton of YouTube videos. I figured it was time to learn how to take care of myself. There was only so much I could do with an illegal hot plate in the dorm, but it worked out okay. Wade was happy to be my taste tester.”
“I’m sure he was,” he chuckled.
I placed my fork on the plate and regarded him seriously. “I want to thank you for everything you did for me while I was growing up. You always gave me somewhere to hang out without getting frustrated that I was constantly in your space. You made sure I had enough to eat, and gave me rides if I needed to go somewhere. None of that was your responsibility, but you did it without question. I didn’t know what to say to thank you as a kid, but please know that none of it went unnoticed. I appreciate everything, and I wouldn’t be who I am today without you.”
Richmond blinked his wide, surprised eyes before his expression softened into a beautiful smile. “It was my pleasure. Even with everything you had going on at home, you were always a polite and cheerful kid. I’m happy you were in Wade’s life…and my life as well. You always helped me remember to be positive and grateful.”
His words warmed me to my core. I had no idea I’d had a positive effect on him, or that he ever thought of me as anything but his son’s clingy friend. I hoped one day our relationship could bloom and grow into something beautiful.
“I also want to thank you for helping Wade and me with the house. Which reminds me…” I dug in my pocket and pulled out a folded check, which I handed to Richmond.
“What’s this?”
“It’s to go towards the rent and utilities. It’s not quite half,” I admitted sheepishly. I’d held a job throughout school to help cover my food and necessities, but my classes prevented me from working a ton of hours. I didn’t have much left over, but I wanted to help pay my way. “Once I find a new job, I promise to make up the rest.”
“I don’t want this,” Richmond argued, trying to hand the paper back to me. “I’m happy to cover the expenses. Hell, it’s worth it not to have Wade in my business constantly,” he tried to joke, but I didn’t laugh.
“Please, it’s…it’s important to me.” After everything he’d done for me in my lifetime, I wanted to pay him back in some way. Above that, I wanted Richmond to see me as an equal; not some kid he was responsible for. It was the same reason I called him by his first name. When I called him Richmond for the first time, I worried he would see it as disrespectful, but his blush told me he didn't mind the change.