Chapter 23

Monique stood up and stretched, rolling her shoulders. “I need to go home and pick up more clothes and a few other things,” she said, brushing a hand through her tousled hair.

I nodded. “Makes sense. I was wondering how long you were planning to wear the same outfits.”

She smirked, leaning down to press a quick kiss to my lips. “You wouldn’t have minded if I stayed naked all day.”

I chuckled. “Not at all, but I think we’d struggle to get anything else done.”

She laughed, walking toward the kitchen. A moment later, the scent of freshly brewed espresso filled the air, and she returned with a cup, handing it to me before picking up the remote.

“Find something funny to watch,” she instructed. “Something to lift your spirits.”

I took a sip of the coffee, savoring the rich taste. “I appreciate the concern, but I promise, I’m fine.” I met her eyes, wanting her to understand. “The accident was awful, but it gave me you. If you hadn’t been here, we might not have reached this point.”

Monique froze mid-step, her breath catching. Then, in an instant, she turned and rushed back to me, her lips crashing against mine in a kiss so full of emotion it left me dizzy.

I wrapped my good arm around her waist, holding her close, feeling her heartbeat against my chest.

She pulled back, her eyes glistening. “I wish it hadn’t taken something like this, but I’m so happy it brought us together.”

I stroked her cheek, my thumb grazing her soft skin. “Me too.”

She sighed, shaking her head. “I really do need to get some things, or I’ll end up just staying here forever.”

I smirked. “Not seeing the downside.”

She rolled her eyes but smiled. “I’ll be back soon.” As she walked to the door, she glanced back over her shoulder, her eyes gleaming with mischief. “But will you survive what I have in store for you when I get back?”

I groaned. “You are pure trouble.”

She winked and disappeared out the door, leaving me both amused and entirely impatient for her return.