Page 61 of Ruthless Dream

I slept over at Ciaran’s place last night. That means Friday, Saturday, and Sunday night I slept in his bed. Not that I’m keeping track.

This time last week, I’d never had a man come inside me before. Now it’s happened on multiple occasions.

By biological standards I should be happy, satisfied. I’d grinned last night, Ciaran laughing too, when I rolled over, snuggling into his side. The Irish charm is really starting to work.

So why did I wake up to an empty bed this morning? And why am I being a clingy pick me.

Nat’s voice comes to me, the big sister, even when we aren’t quite on good terms. It’s okay to have expectations of the person you’re sleeping with.

I get that it’s a Monday. I had class too. I wasn’t expecting breakfast in bed. But a kiss on the forehead, a note, a sweet text, or something would have been nice.

It’s all fake anyway, I remind myself. Still with my head on the desk, I cross my arms tighter, holding onto my elbows. An attempt at self-soothing, I think.

I shouldn’t be sad. It’s quite simple our arrangement. Sex and fake boyfriend vibes. That should be all.

“Are you okay?”

I shoot straight up.

The lady from HR has come into our area.

“Sorry.” I smooth my hair back. “A really bad headache.”

It’s not a lie. There’s an achy helmet over my scalp, but the blonde lady looks doubtful.

“Have you taken anything?”

I shake my head.

“I’ve got something.” One of the other interns digs into her bag, coming up with a pill bottle.

“Thanks.”

“Drink some water,” HR lady advises. “If it gets worse and you need to leave, please let me know.”

“Thanks,” I say to her retreating back and to the fellow intern.

The kindness sours when I hear them giggling about how I can’t handle a hangover.

I tap my phone again. Nothing.

Remain calm, Adeline.

I’m tapping away before I can think better of it.

Adeline: You didn’t say good morning.

I slam my phone on the desk, turning it over so I can’t see the screen. Can’t see my foolishness. My willpower lasts only thirty seconds before I pick it up again.

Of course it’s the one time Ciaran immediately checks his messages.

Ciaran: You were asleep.

I could do without the logic.

Ciaran: Perhaps you didn’t want to sleep in? Should I have woken you up with an orgasm?

My entire body bursts into flame. With memories and longings.