Page 66 of Guarded Deputy
Nate breathes out, closing his eyes. He’s unguarded in this moment, expression soft. I like seeing this side of him.
“You’re welcome,” he says hoarsely.
Stepping away, he moves, lifting himself until he’s sitting next to me. We scoot back onto the bed, and Nate pulls out some plates.
“You’ve planned it all.”
“Almost. I forgot dessert.” He presses his lips into a tight line.
“It’s okay. I care more about the company than the food.” I smile at him.
He grunts and serves me a slice of pizza before grabbing one for himself.
“I agree. I brought beer and wine. Which do you prefer?” He leans against the pillow and extends his long legs. My eyes swoop down his body to his strong thighs and back to his handsome face.
“A beer would be great.”
He nods, reaching into the cooler and grabbing two beer bottles, popping the cap before handing mine over.
“This is amazing.” I breathe out, seeing the stars starting to pop up against the dark backdrop of the night sky. While everyone in town knows this area, I don’t come here often. It’s further away from the town lights, so it allows the sky to show-off its magic.
“I told you I’d plan something private. Even if I had no idea what this area meant to people in town.” His hand squeezes my waist and I squeal, throwing my body away from his.
Nate laughs, reaching for me again, but I move.
“I found a tickle spot.” His tone is taunting.
“Nate,” I warn. “I’m going to end up throwing my food, and you don’t want to see me hangry.”
“Maybe I do.” He waggles his eyebrows.
“I’d eat you.”
“Oh?” His eyebrows slowly rise. “Please do.”
I realize how bad that sounds and shake my head. “Not like that. Wonderful.” I cover my face. “I meant…never mind. There’s no fixing this.”
His laughter rings all around me as he tugs me to his side, keeping his arm around my back and leans in.
“I’m only kidding, Lizzy.” His breath is hot against my neck.
I shiver at the soft sensation, turning my head to look at him before realizing that our lips practically touch. Our eyes lock for a moment, and then his dip to my lips. I lick them, wishing I could feel his kiss again even if it’s been a few hours since we last kissed.
Nate clears his throat, leaning back, and breaking the tension.
“The pizza’s going to get cold.” His voice is husky.
“Yeah.” I grab my slice and eat in silence.
“Did you always want to be a teacher?” he asks after a stretch of silence.
“I guess so. I knew I wanted to work with kids, and while the idea of being a counselor crossed my mind, I went into teaching. Last year, I got the courage to start the process to apply for grad school, and I start in the fall.” I go for a second slice, devouring the flavorful combination of tomato sauce and mozzarella.
“Counseling, really?” His brows lift. “What the fuck!” he shouts, ducking his head.
“What?” Why would he react that way? I look over at him and widen my eyes. “Oh, my goodness.” I laugh when I spot the seagull trying to steal his pizza.
“Crap.” The slice of pizza flies out in front of us when Nate shakes his fingers. He then swings his hand left and right, trying to fight the bird. All he’s gaining is for the seagull to continue pecking his fingers.