Page 155 of Pure Recklessness

And there was no way anyone could call him Scrooge after he’d spent a shedload of money hiring out the entire museum.

But after more coercion, I’d added a notepad, T. rex soft toy, T-shirt and mug.

That was more than enough, but Blake kept showing me stuff and asking whether Dotty would’ve liked them. The second I’d said yes, he took them straight to the till.

Despite his grumpy appearance, Blake really was the sweetest. Which was why I’d opened up to him.

I hadn’t planned to tell Blake about Dotty. But being in the place she loved brought so many painful memories flooding back and once I’d started talking, I couldn’t stop.

Normally, speaking about Dotty was difficult because I missed her so much. But Blake was really easy to talk to. He made me feel comfortable. At ease. Safe.

The way he’d listened and comforted me when I got upset was amazing.

And somehow, answering his questions made me feel closer to her.

Sadness had clouded my memories for so long that it felt good to focus on happier thoughts about Dotty for a change.

It was like a weight had been lifted from my shoulders.

I wanted to show Blake my gratitude, so I took his hand and led him to the sofa.

‘Thanks again for tonight. I know you said that I didn’t have to thank you, but…’ I dropped to my knees.

‘No,’ he said softly, then lifted me back to my feet. ‘It’s late and it’s been an emotional evening. Let’s just sleep. Okay?’

My eyes widened with surprise.

Given our arrangement, I thought he’d be happy for me to go down on him.

He was right though. I was mentally exhausted.

Blake scooped me into his arms and carried me to the bedroom.

He laid me down, got on the bed behind me, then wrapped his arms around my waist.

‘Goodnight, Ellie,’ he whispered.

‘Goodnight, Blake,’ I said, before falling asleep.

As I woke up, one glance at the luxurious bedroom was all I needed to remind me that I was still at Blake’s.

Warmth flooded my belly as I remembered how kind he was last night.

I turned to the other side of the bed, but it was empty. I looked at my watch. It was almost midday. I couldn’t believe I’d slept so long.

Just as I was about to get up, Blake appeared at the door.

‘You’re awake!’ His face lit up.

‘Sorry. I didn’t mean to sleep so late.’

‘No apology necessary.’ He came and sat next to me. ‘Are you hungry?’

‘Starving. Got any more leftovers from yesterday’s breakfast banquet?’ I joked.

‘Wait there.’ Blake left then reappeared with a tray.

‘You made me breakfast?’ I gasped.