Page 99 of For One Night

Her head whips around. “Lennox, I know that look.”

I bat my lashes. “What look, boo?”

She twists in the seat and pretends to kick me. “Get ahold of yourself!”

“I’d rather get ahold of you.” I snatch her ankle, tugging on it.

Her breasts heave as her breath hitches. “I need to ask you to not look at me like that, Lennox.”

“I can’t help myself, Lola.” I wet my lips. “It’s not possible with you.”

She closes her eyes. “I want to. there’s nothing I’ve wanted more … I just can’t.”

“I understand.” The car grows silent the rest of the way.

We pull up to the hotel, and my heart is so heavy I struggle to maintain control of everything. I step from the car, holding my hand out for her. She latches on to it, holding it tightly before releasing it.

We walk in, side by side, still no words shared, only the occasional glance and gaze. We check in and stand together on our way to the rooms. We step off side by side and go our separate ways.

After an hour, I check to see if she’s ready for dinner.

Ready? ~L

Can we stay in? ~Lo

Yes, of course. ~L

Call room service. ~L

Order what you’d like. ~L

No, Come here. ~Lo

Please. ~Lo

OMW ~L

I grab my wallet and key card, and hurry to her door. I lightly tap on it, worrying what could be wrong. She opens the door, her eyes red and tissues in hand.

“Lola?” I wrap my arms around her. “What’s wrong? Did I do something?”

She sniffles. “You would never, no.”

“Do you want to talk about it?” I walk her back into the room, holding her to my chest.

She shakes her head. “I can’t. I just need you now.”

“I’m here.” I lean away, taking off my jacket and pulling her back to me. “Come on, we’ll order everything room service offers.”

Her tears fall faster. “I can’t believe I’ve done this to you. I’m sorry. I don’t have anyone else.”

“Don’t apologize for needing someone, especially me.” I help her onto the bed and pull out the menu.

A few hours later and a ton of uneaten food, we lay in bed watching old movies. She rolls over, staring up at me.

“Why are you being creepy?” I side eye her.

Her mouth drops. “I am not.”