“Nothing.” I turned away slightly. Caleb got up and tossed our trash, muttering something under his breath at the same time.
“Princess.” He lowered himself back on the bench. “If this is going to work, you have to tell me the truth. I know you’re lying right now.”
I closed my eyes. “Honesty? You want me to be honest right now?” I opened them and turned to face him. “Maybe I just want you to man up. Maybe I’d like to see that you really do feel all of what you told me the other night.” I balled my fists and pursed my lips.
Caleb’s head shook vigorously like he was clearing it. “Man up? What’s that even mean?” He chuckled humorlessly. “You mean make a move on you?”
“At least I’d know you really liked me,” I grumbled under my breath.
He leaned forward, placing his elbows on his thighs, and dropped his head down. His fingers ran through his hair, and he tugged…hard. “You are driving me crazy.” He sighed before turning his head and looking at me. “So you think that I’m not attracted to you because I haven’t groped you, or kissed you? That it?” He rolled his eyes. “Just because I’m not all over you, doesn’t mean I don’t want to be. Tonight has been one of the hardest nights of my life. I like you, a lot. I’m extremely attracted to you, Riley. I’ve been telling myself no all night because of how much I like you. I want this to work, but you deserve so much more than you think you do. A real man will treat you with respect, and that means going slow and building this to what it could be. I want more than the summer for us, and you should too. This is a first date. Stop putting these expectations on what we’re supposed to be.”
“I’m sorry.” I turned away. “It’s just…”
“Just what?” He reached for my hand and squeezed it. “That Dean told you that you were a prude? You think I think you’re a prude too?”
“Maybe.” I could feel the tears rising, the ones that always come when someone reminds me of what Dean did.
“Riley.” He tugged my hand into his lap. “That jerk doesn’t know what he’s talking about. You’re the perfect girl. You’re sweet and sexy, and not afraid to put me in my place. It might take us a while to navigate this new dynamic between us, but I want to try.”
“Ok. Me too.” I smiled a half smile.
“Besides… I think you’re hot.” He winked, causing me to laugh. “Let’s go. I don’t want your dad sending out the cavalry if I’m late getting you home.”
He stood and offered his hand once more. We walked in silence back to his truck. The ride home was quiet, but it was the perfect end to the evening. “I’m sorry I had a meltdown back there. I’m still really sensitive about the whole Dean thing. I read into things I shouldn’t, and I’m putting pressure on you that’s unnecessary. I’ll try to stop.” I unbuckled my seatbelt and started to climb out.
“Sit tight.” Caleb left the truck running, and came around to my side. “Don’t worry about any of it. I’m not him, and I don’t think about you the way he did. If I’m ever upset with something you’ve done, you’ll know. As far as pressure goes, I’ve been putting some on myself as well.”
“Really?” I lifted my eyes to look into his. Shadows from the trees kept us in the dark, and I could barely see his expression.
“Mmm hmm.” His voice grew quiet. “You don’t need to doubt the fact that I’m attracted to you, Riley. You never need to worry about that.” His voice grew rough, and he leaned closer. His nose rubbed against mine. “I’ve been thinking about this since the party.” His lips brushed over mine as one arm wrapped tightly around my middle. His head tipped to the side as his tongue licked across my lips, requesting entry. Maybe it was a sigh. I don’t know, but when my lips parted, he took full advantage. He stepped closer, aligning himself flush against me. Every ridge of his body was touching mine. His feet shuffled forward as he pinned me to the side of the truck. I could feel him, hard against his shorts. I gasped as my hands went to his shoulders, bracing myself as he kissed me until I felt it in my soul. “Never doubt me,” he whispered as he pulled away.
“I won’t.” I blinked up at him. “Thanks for tonight.”
“You’re welcome. I’ll see you tomorrow.” He pressed a light kiss to my forehead before stepping back. “Sweet dreams, Princess.” He winked and I stepped around him, heading for the door. He waited until I was inside before leaving.
I saw Caleb in a whole new light tonight, and I knew he was the guy who could break me. Despite the risk, I still wanted to see what was there.
Chapter 11Riley
The last several days have been better than I could have imagined. Caleb and I have spent part of every day together. I’ve either gone to the gym, or he’s come to the house. My mom is thrilled, and I think Dad may be coming around. The last few times he’s actually smiled when he’s seen us.
Today is Caleb’s day off. He’s supposed to be coming over this morning, and we’re going to the beach for the day. Claire might meet us there. It’s a perfect day; low eighties and not a cloud in the sky. I bought a new swimsuit, and I’m hoping to get out the door without Dad making me change. He’s been extra protective since Caleb and I got closer. The best part about today though is Easton is
