Total pages in book: 40
Estimated words: 36478 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 182(@200wpm)___ 146(@250wpm)___ 122(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 36478 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 182(@200wpm)___ 146(@250wpm)___ 122(@300wpm)
But the hug was amazing; his body fit perfectly in my arms, and warmed me to my core. It had been so long since I held a man, and I was content to spend the rest of my day this way, but I knew I had to get back to class, so I soaked up the last moments of bliss before pulling away.
I gathered our trash, tucking it back into the lunch box before standing up, noticing a lump in my pocket. "Oh, I almost forgot!" I pulled out a baggie, which held bacon flavored dog treats. I bought a bag the night before, and planned on giving some to Cooper each time I saw him. Knowing that the pup didn't eat on duty, I placed the baggie in Sterling's palm and told him, "Those are some treats for Cooper. I hope that's okay."
His mouth tugged to the side. "Are you trying to butter me up by spoiling my dog?"
"Yes," I answered unashamedly. "Is it working?"
"Absolutely," he answered with a chuckle.
"Then my work here is done." I bent down and gave Cooper a scratch behind his ears as he wagged his tail like crazy. "I'll see you both tomorrow."
"Goodbye, Professor." I love when he calls me that.
I had to force my feet forward, making my way back to the classroom as I wished the day passed quickly.
Chapter Three
“So, what did you think?” Sterling asked as we walked out of the movie theater.
“I can’t remember the last time I laughed so much.” The film was a smart comedy about a blended family and the problems they faced. It had situational humor instead of slapstick, which was right up my alley.
“And the narration?” He asked nervously. “Did it bother you?”
“Not at all; I enjoyed it.” Throughout the movie, a voice-over told what the characters were doing; it described the direction they walked, facial expressions they wore, and their general actions if the dialogue didn’t make it clear. A couple of times, I closed my eyes and listened, and I could still clearly visualize the scenes. “It was kind of like listening to an audio book.”
Sterling nodded his agreement with a smile. “I’m glad you enjoyed it.”
I was sure that I would enjoy anything with him; his presence made me happy, and he was already showing me new ways to experience this world. I was excited for the future, and what we could discover together.
“They change the movies out every couple of weeks,” he added, “So maybe we could come to another one soon.”
A big, cheesy grin crossed my lips as I teased, “Hmm, it sounds like someone is excited to be with me again.”
“Damn straight I am,” he replied, echoing my words from the previous day and making me laugh.
“Deal.” I squeezed his hand, which was nestled in mine. That was the best part of the movie; Sterling let me hold his hand from start to finish. I felt like a teenager again, all riled up over a simple touch, but I couldn’t help myself.
“Here we are,” I announced when we reached my black sedan. Sterling stood still as I opened the passenger door for him, and then he passed Cooper’s leash to me before he settled into the front seat.
“Thank you.”
“It’s my pleasure,” I assured before gently closing the door. I always wanted to be a gentleman and open doors for him; not because I didn’t think he was capable of doing so himself, but because I wanted to treat him with respect. Okay fine, I wanted to spoil him. I’d only known him a few days, but I wanted to give him the world. It was a feeling that both scared and exhilarated me.
“Come on, Cooper,” I instructed the dog as I opened the back door. He jumped onto the seat and laid down, crossing his front paws and looking like royalty. I couldn’t believe how well behaved he was in the theater; he rested at Sterling’s feet and I swear he was watching the movie. If dogs could laugh, I guarantee he would have.
“You’re such a good boy,” I cooed, giving his back a good pat. “Yes you are.” Sterling wasn’t the only one I wanted to spoil. “Did you like the movie? It was good, huh?”
Sterling snorted from the front seat, and I caught the reflection of his smile in the rearview mirror. He probably thought I was silly, but something in that grin showed that he appreciated the care I gave to his companion.
“Okay, buddy, I’m gonna shut the door now; watch your tail.” I closed it and jogged around to the front of the car. When I slid in behind the steering wheel, I just stared at Sterling, who was still wearing a heartstopping grin. “Have I told you how gorgeous you are?” I asked, knowing damn well that I’d already gushed over him at least three times.