Page 30 of Thorn Evermore
“How did things happen with Neal?”
We pause as a server comes by to drop off a bottle of expensive wine. After he makes a show of pouring it for us, I turn my attention back to Kyson.
“Ah Neal. He pursued me pretty aggressively. I told him no because I didn’t want to make things weird at work if it didn’t work out. Ironic, huh?”
I rub his hand. “But he wore you down?”
“It was a group outing. Happy hour to celebrate how well our store had done over the quarter. He was just a sales associate at the time. Anyway, when I was leaving the bar, he walked me to my car and just flat-out kissed me. I hadn’t been kissed a lot in my life or pursued like that, so I thought it was a sign.”
“How long before he was mean to you?”
“Oh, it was subtle at first. Little digs about what I was wearing or that I needed a haircut, or I’d be cuter with contacts. Stuff like that.”
“Uh-huh.” I’m already irritated.
“Then it was my weight. It’s always been a challenge. I’m just naturally soft.”
“And naturally gorgeous.”
He laughs softly, pushing his glasses up again. “Thank you. I gave up on trying to be ripped and lean back in my twenties. It’s just not in the cards for me so I focus on staying healthy.When I was younger, I didn’t really mind, you know? I thought my face looked good a little fuller. I lost thirty pounds once because I did a charity marathon. I didn’t recognize myself, but I was flooded with compliments.” He blows out a breath. “I’ve been struggling with that ever since. You know, the idea that I was only hot once and only after six months of punishing my body.”
“You’re hot now, Kyson. I think you look delicious.”
“You’re weird then.”
“Well, I am weird, but not about you.”
“It seems weird to me that you’re not into super buff model types.”
I lift his hand, rubbing it against my lips. “I’m into energy and vibes, and you’ve got the best of both. I’m into pretty eyes and luscious lips and sweet freckles, and boys who push their glasses up their noses when they slide down. I’m into pink cheeks and big brains and passion. I’m into you, Kyson, and I have been since I laid eyes on you. Please don’t say anything negative about yourself. I’ve seen a lot of beautiful people in my life and you’re at the top of the list.”
Kyson stares at me with his mouth open before he shakes his head. “I want to believe you. You seem genuine.”
“I assure you, I am.” With his hand still close to my lips, I flick my tongue out to taste his skin, exhaling deeply. My gums throb, ready to release my fangs and sink them into all this silky flesh of his, but that has to wait.
“Are you… licking me?”
“Mm-hmm.” I nibble the side of his hand. “I could eat you up, Kyson.”
He giggles, squirming in his chair. “Stop it. You’re getting me all hot and bothered.”
“Exactly how I want you. Just wait until I get you alone.”
“You’re good for a man’s ego.”
“You deserve to feel as sexy as you are, my pretty little thing.” With his cheeks bright red and his eyes shining happily,I lean in and press a quick kiss to his lips. The soft gasp he releases is music to my ears. “Sweet, sweet, boy.”
Kyson puts his hand on my cheek, his fingers tickling my beard. “I think you might be the best thing to ever happen to me.”
Chapter 8
KYSON
Thorn doesn’t reply with words, but continues kissing and nibbling on my hand until our server returns with a tray of dishes. He scoots back a little, but barely puts any space between us.
Is this what it feels like to be adored by someone? If so, yes please. I know the day will come when he inevitably gets bored with me and wants to move on, and I should definitely put my guard back up, but I can’t. Not with a face like that gazing at me like I discovered a new planet.
I never knew I’d like being called things like pretty and sweetheart and boy, but out of his mouth, it’s the best.