Chapter Four

Saturday, July 18th

JORDAN

I had just finished getting ready for the night. I was looking forward to this night since Kennedy first arrived. Because tonight I was finally going to tell Kennedy about my relationship with Sydney. I would have told Kennedy about Sydney in the beginning, but the timing always felt off. Then there was always this feeling where I wanted to keep Sydney for myself.

Actually, my plan was to tell Kennedy before we left for the restaurant, then I was going to introduce them. Hopefully, have a nice meal just the three of us. Then after that I was going to take them out clubbing. Where Kennedy could find a hook up since that's all she could seem to talk about. So why not kill two birds with one stone. Evidently things didn't quite work out that way.

I had spent the majority of my time getting ready nervous as can be, hoping they would get along. At least find a few things in common. I didn't like keeping things from my best friend, the guilt was really taking its toll on me. It wasn't like me to keep secrets of this magnitude from her.

I emerged from my room dressed in a black, white and gold Versace skull polo shirt. It had a white skull that took up most of the front right side, with bold white lettering. On the back was the emblem in gold with the same lettering in front, the base of the shirt itself was black. It was one of my favorites and one that I didn't wear too often. As for my pants, I just decided to wear Versace denim washed straight legged jeans. Along with my white Air Force One's that were custom painted gold and black with the Versace Greco design.

I found Kennedy in the living room on the phone. The sun was about to set, causing the room to darken a little. I walked passed Kennedy and made my way towards the kitchen, not wanting to interrupt. Yet, I couldn't help overhearing Kennedy's side of the conversation.

"Yeah, yeah mom, I know." Kennedy said with a sigh. "But I can't I just – alright fine. I'll see you later." She replied into the phone.

"What's going on?" I asked a little concerned. I knew it was serious by the tone in Kennedy's voice.

"That was my mom. My grandma's in the hospital." Kennedy sounded crestfallen, her voice practically a whisper as she spoke the last sentence.

"Oh my god! What happened?" I couldn't believe it. It was hard to fathom that such a healthy and vibrant older woman such as Merilyn could be in the hospital.

"My grandma's sick. I guess she's been having respiratory problems for the past few days. My parents are with her now." She said as she sadly looked at the floor.

I almost gasped at the thought. I walked from around the kitchen island. "How serious is it?" The concern and worry in my voice more prominent than before as I was now standing in front of my best friend.

Kennedy looked up at me. Her blue eyes showing an expression that was very rare in the blond. "I'm not sure yet. The doctors are still running tests to see what caused it." I could see the worry seeping through the cracks of her usual jovial demeanor.

Immediately comforting her in a friendly embrace. I couldn't stand seeing her so dolorous. "Is there anything I can do?" I wish I could take away her pain and worry. I hated seeing her in this state.

"No. Not really." She said with a sniffle and pulling away, leaving just enough space to where we could look each other in the eyes. "But I do have to pack. My parents want me to be there. I'm sorry our plans got ruined. I was really looking forward to tonight." She said trying to smile.

"Don't worry about it. Your grandmother is way more important." I knew she needed to be reassured. I didn't want her to feel any worse than she already did. "Do you need me to take you to the airport?" I offered. I felt like I needed to help her in whatever way I could.

"No." She replied a little hurriedly. "My dad already sent for a car. It should be here in a half hour." Her face softened.

"Okay. Well, if you need anything, let me know." I wished she would let me help, but I understood. She probably just wanted to be alone for now and I couldn't blame her. I know if it was someone I loved going through something like this, I'd probably want to be alone too.

"Yeah, I will. Thanks Jay." She said with a halfhearted smile.

I really wished that none of this happened to Kennedy and her family. My heart was a little heavy knowing that Kennedy would be dealing with this alone. Selfishly I wished she didn't have to leave, but I completely understood. I guess the universe wasn't ready for me and Sydney to make introductions to our families or friends. I'm not a monster, I wanted nothing more than anything for her grandmother to get better.

I had a lot of love and respect for her Merilyn. She's like a surrogate grandmother to me. She always treated me good and included me in on their family vacations and outings. Even going so far as to teach me old family recipes or how she wouldn't hesitate to help me if I needed it. Which is why I was so quick to help. I knew they probably wanted only family to be there for now.

Before I did anything else, I texted Sydney and told her there was a small change in plans, but I would still be there to pick her up. I know it may seem insensitive to still keep my earlier plans, but the truth is, I wanted to see Sydney. I'd gone a whole week without seeing her, only able to text or have late night calls. It was actually rather torturous being without her. Not that I didn't enjoy our time together, I just really missed Sydney.

I helped Kennedy pack and carried her things down to the car waiting in front of the building. Giving Kennedy a departing hug and telling her again to call me if she needed anything. I watched the car drive off until I could no longer see it.

Even though I was saddened by Kennedy having to leave, there was that part that was extremely excited to be with Sydney and not having to spend the night away from her.

I have never felt this way about anyone. Wanting to be with them every second of the day, never tiring of their presence. Not being able to stop thinking about them, or just being comfortable and completely attracted to them. I never thought finding a real true connection with someone was possible, or that once found it could make me smile so much.

Every time I envisioned her, she always wore a smile. The one that seemed like it was just for me. It's hard to explain this smile because of the combinations that eluded from it. It would start off shy and innocent, showing off her dimples as she would look down and away from me, then somehow it would become seductive as she slowly looked at me, then she would bite her lip. A hint of playfulness within her eyes, always leaving me to wonder if there was a hidden meaning behind it.

She was definitely a mystery to me. It made me crave to know her in every possible way. I knew it went deeper than infatuation, I could spend a thousand lifetimes and still not know the depths of her completely. But I would happily try if given the chance.

Brushing away the sweet reverie, I turned and went inside. I still had a half hour before I had to leave to pick up Sydney. Knowing I was going to be around her, always made me slightly nervous. I've never been with anyone who made me feel the way I do. This indescribable feeling. Wonderful in all of its facets. Butterflies and all, electric tingles with every simple touch and caress. How is that possible?

From the moment I laid eyes on her, she bewitched me. Captivated me with her smoldering emerald eyes, enticed me with her smooth velvet voice, and enchanted me with the electrical current whenever she touched me. Admittedly, those three things played a part, but what truly got me was the intellectual conversations. Which seemed to come naturally and never seemed forced, there was so much more to her than her being gorgeous. I was genuinely interested in what she thought and how she felt.

When I went inside the penthouse and called my mom and let her know what happened with Kennedy's grandmother, then let her know I was going to go out for a while to meet up with some people I met at the gym. Which wasn't a complete lie. I also knew my parents wouldn't mind me being out or gone for long periods of time, just as long as I let them know where and what I was doing. They were gone most nights anyway.

I texted my driver Leo and told him to meet me out front in ten minutes. I grabbed my keys and walked out the door, locking it then made my way to the elevators. By the time I made it to the lobby, I could see the white Bentley waiting out front. Leo was standing next to the back passenger door. Dressed in the usual suites our security detail wore, he had a slim athletic build, he was a former Navy Seal, so he knew how to handle himself. He stood tall at 6'4" with his medium length blond hair combed stylishly to the right.

As soon as I neared he opened the door, sliding in quickly then adjusting myself to sit comfortably. A few minutes later we left on our way to Sydney's apartment. I texted Sydney to let her know I arrived then casually made my way into the now familiar building and went straight up to Sydney's floor. I didn't bother with knocking because Sydney said she would leave the door open.

Looking at the time, I realized I made it five minutes early. I took my usual seat on the sofa, trying to keep my mind occupied by scrolling through different apps on my phone, every once and awhile taking glances towards the hallway in anticipation for her to come walking out. I checked my watch again, beginning to feel anxious at the thought of taking out this gorgeous woman.

Feeling lucky that I was the one she chose to spend her precious time with. My heart raced the more I thought about her. I tried to calm myself as much as I could, but this has been a reoccurrence every time I'm even in close proximity of her.

I needed something to calm my nerves. After a brief moment of deliberation I got up from my seat on the sofa and walked over to her liquor cabinet and poured myself a small glass of Courvoisier. I savored the libation, feeling the burn as it coursed its way down my throat and settled warmly in my stomach. Setting the empty glass down, I walked back to where I was sitting before.

My jaw all but dropped as she entered the room. Time seemed to stand still as I took in her appearance. She was looking at the floor while putting in a diamond studded earring. Her long luxurious hair cascaded down her back and over her shoulders. It was straight and looked as smooth as silk, making me want to run my fingers through it. She wore a green Prada rhinestone embroidered mesh top that brought out the emerald in her eyes, alluring me in deeper than before. Which I didn't think possible, but she managed to do no matter what she did.

She also wore a black and white Prada printed tweed miniskirt with black lace at the hem of her skirt, licking my lips at the sight of her long caramel colored legs. Black Prada brushed leather slingback pumps adorned her feet.

Sinfully wicked thoughts clouded my mind, as I imagined her skirt bunched up around her waist with her legs wrapped around me, as we stared into each other's eyes while I pumped away at her hot soaking wet vulva. Only to hear her moans and screams of pleasure. Sydney cleared her throat, snapping me out of my thoughts, bringing me back to the present. When I looked at my Egyptian goddess, she was smiling, knowing where my thoughts had been.

She bit her bottom lip seductively, whether she knew it or not I couldn't tell you. All I know is it took everything I had not to make my fantasy a reality right then and there. "My eyes are up here Jordan." Sydney teased as she pointed to her eyes.

Shaking myself from the daze this goddess put me in, I gathered what mental strength I could and stood up and walked up to her wrapping my hands around her waist. "How can you expect me not to stare when you look absolutely gorgeous." I complimented, kissing her on the lips. She put her arms around my neck and deepened the kiss, which quickly turned hot and passionate as our tongues twirled and danced in the others mouth with fervor.

It was a brief yet tantalizing kiss, she pulled back a little in order to look me in the eyes. "Always the charmer." She teased, smiling only this time giving me a peck on the lips.

"Well, what can say? Other than the truth. You are absolutely stunning." I said grabbing her hand then taking a step back to admire the view. I noticed the flush of her cheeks as I took in all of her.

"With talk like that, we might never leave." She said as she twirled under my arms as if we were dancing.

I pulled her close to me, feeling the warmth of her body pressed up against mine. "Would that be so bad?" I asked whispering into the crook of her neck. Trailing kisses up to her jaw.

"No, not really, but – " her breathing hitched, a moan escaping past her lips when I licked behind her ear, lightly nibbling on the flesh. "Oh Jordan. You know what that does to me." Her voice coming out low and sensual.

"Yes, I do." I replied as I switched to other side.

"Baby," she stopped me by lightly pushing me away. "I do want you to take me dancing." She pouted.

It took me a second to think about it. Not wanting to disappoint my gorgeous vixen. "Well, in that case, we better get going." I said as I grabbed her hand and gently pulled her along, walking out the door.

Dinner was delicious and the conversation flowed throughout the course of the meal, we even lost track of time we were so caught up in our discussion. By the time we left the restaurant, it was still considered early, and we had plenty of time to do something else. So, we decided to take a short stroll through Central Park. Giving us ample time to continue our earlier conversation, we walked and talked for a half hour then made our way back to a more populated street. Where my driver Leo picked us up.

Every so often Sydney would let me know how excited she was to go dancing, her eyes would light up and she would shyly shriek in excitement, which I thought was utterly adorable. From the short time I've known her, she hasn't been much of a drinker. Aside from the occasional glass of wine or two, but nothing excessive. Which suited me just fine, since I'm not an alcohol enthusiast either.

Within minutes we had arrived at LAVO nightclub, which I've never been to, but I've heard good things from friends of mine. I gave the bouncer my name, he checked his clipboard then unhooked the red velvet rope. I slipped him a hundo which he gladly accepted. Then we stepped inside.

It was a good thing I made the reservation two weeks in advance, or we would've been waiting in line for hours. The club was packed with people pretty much shoulder to shoulder. I was beginning to second guess my choice considering the amount of people. But I knew Sydney was looking forward to being here.

Somehow we managed to make it to the bar and order some drinks. Sydney ordered a strawberry daiquiri while I opted for my usual, Courvoisier on the rocks. We downed our drinks within ten minutes and ordered a couple more. By the time we finished our second drink, a guy dressed in a white long-sleeved button up shirt with a ruby red tie and khakis, nudged himself between Sydney and me then turned to talk to Sydney. I watched in amusement.

Sydney's expression matching my own, seeing as to how this is a common occurrence for the both of us. "So, beautiful, do you come here often?" I chuckled at the cheesy pickup line and shook my head as I took a sip of my drink, leaning back on the bar as I continued to watch this humorous spectacle.

Most people in a situation such as this would immediately get offended and want to start an argument or show the unwanted intruder their possessive nature, and admittedly, I used to be one of those people when it came to Sydney. However, I have come to learn that I needed to do no such action. Sydney leaned forward seemingly interested. "No. Actually, this is my first time here." She gave him an endearing smile, one he wouldn't know was fake. Putting her daiquiri closer to her mouth, seductively wrapping her lips around the straw and sipped her drink.

I glanced at the mirror behind the bar and seen the wannabe Lothario gulp and loosen his tie. He quickly recovered, "Can I buy you a drink?" He tried to ask smoothly.

"Well, that depends." Sydney replied while circling her fingers around the rim of her glass. I took the first cue, getting the bartenders attention then ordered us both another drink.

"On what?" Lothario wannabe asked curiously, his gaze fixed on Sydney's delicate fingers.

"On if you can answer three simple questions." She replied nonchalantly.

This seemed to pique the guys interest. "Okay. Sounds easy enough." Lothario said cockily, earning a smirk from Sydney.

I knew his cockiness would be his downfall. I had seen her do this before. I was a little excited to see what the questions were going to be this time. The first two would often differ, most of the time, but the last question was always the same. It may seem mean to those on the outside looking in, but it's a cat and mouse game that sort of just happened one night when we were clearly on a date. "Alright then, all you have to do is answer honestly." She stated her only stipulation while breaking me of my reminiscent thoughts.

"Fair enough." He agreed arrogantly.

She smiled sweetly then launched into her first question. "Do you find me attractive?" She asked arching an eyebrow.

"Absolutely." He replied without hesitation, his interest evermore piqued.

"Do you want to fuck me?" She queried seductively, batting her eyelashes. Lothario appeared like he didn't know what to say or do. Evidently caught off guard by the forward question. Unsure of how to answer, all he could do was nod his head in response.

Just then the bartender came with our drinks. Perfect timing really. Sydney snuck a glance in my direction through the mirror. I took this as my next cue, lifting myself casually from the bar. "Now remember, answer honestly." She reminded him, he nodded his head again. Sydney leaned in close and whispered into his ear, just barely loud enough for me to hear. "How deep can you go?" Her voice seductive, that it even made me shiver. Yet, I knew it was a part of the game for her. She leaned back slightly, awaiting his reply.

Lothario took a moment to consider his answer. "Seven inches." He said proudly with a smug smile.

Sydney smirked as I came up beside her handing her a drink. She took a sip of it as I slipped my arms around her waist, setting her drink down, she began to relax into me. "Hey baby, is this man bothering you?" I asked as I looked to the guy in front of me then taking in the sight of the beautiful woman I was holding.

"No. I believe he was just leaving." She said with a dismissive wave as she turned to embrace me, giving me her full attention, kissing me passionately. With one last glance at Lothario who had a stunned expression of disbelief and then realizing the rejection dawned on him. I can hardly feel bad for the guy, he did arrogantly try to pick her up. Treating Sydney as a sexual object instead of a real lady.

If there's one thing I learned about Sydney, it's that arrogance will get you nowhere. I kissed the crook of her neck, she let out a soft moan of approval. The guy scowled at me then turned and angrily brushed his way through the crowded club.

"Let's go dance." I said placing another soft kiss, this time next to her ear. I held my hand out, which she immediately took. I guided us through the thicket of the crowd, finding a nice spot in the middle of the dance floor.

We danced for a good hour, grinding on each other to the rhythm of the upbeat tempo. Enjoying the feeling of being free and letting go of any worries or concerns for the time being. It was hard to keep from smiling as I watched Sydney dancing carefree, I was happy knowing that I was the one who could bring this out in her. As our bodies pressed close together and not just because there were people around, but because it was hard to keep our hands off of each other.

I felt more alive with Sydney than I ever did with anyone else. I could only hope that I made her feel the same way. My breath would hitch every time I would catch a glimpse of her eyes, they were brightening up my insides. Metaphorically causing me to glow with anticipation. For what? I don't know. I just knew I didn't want things with us to end.

Just then, the DJ decided to slow things down. I placed my right hand on the small of her back while she put hers on my shoulders, then I took her other hand in mine. Everyone else faded into the background, until it was just us on the dance floor in that moment of pure bliss.

It felt like we were the only two people in the world. As if God created the universe just for the two of us to exist. It was the briefest of moments, one that I will never forget and the only thing that broke us of trance was someone nudging us to get passed us. "Let's get out of here." I suggested, she nodded in agreement. I grabbed Sydney's hand and led her off the dance floor, then through the main doors.

As we waited for Leo to drive around front, I held Sydney in my arms. Trying my best to shield her from nip of the air, the slight howling of the wind caused Sydney to shiver. I basked in the closeness of her, intoxicated by her perfume. Trying to commit this moment to memory, the feeling the warmness of her touch, her lavender scented shampoo. As sappy as it all sounds I didn't want to forget a single thing about her with summer being halfway over. I didn't want to take any chances, I am not going to take being with her for granted. So rather than thinking about the summer ending and worrying about whether or not we'll see each other, I plan to make as many fond memories of her as I possibly can.

"What's wrong, baby?" Sydney asked while looking up at me. Pressing her body tighter against mine. "You look a thousand miles away. What's going on in that magnificent brain of yours?" I hadn't realized my thoughts had been so far away.

"Nothing to be concerned about." Sydney gave me a look like she wasn't buying it. "I'm serious." I said with a chuckle. "All I was thinking about was you and how I don't want to take what we have for granted. That's all." I said trying my best to reassure her.

Sydney's eyes softened a little more, then a flash of concern replaced it. "Jordan, I have to tell you something." The lighthearted feeling in the air dissipated as soon as the words were spoken.

Now it was my time to worry. I shot her a questioning look. "What is it? Is everything ok?" The worry in my voice couldn't be missed. I could see in her eyes the inner battle she was having with herself. I needed her to know she could trust me with anything. I didn't want whatever was causing this worried look she had to ever be a problem for her. "You can trust me, you know that don't you?"

"Yes of course, I know that. It's not a matter of trust. It has more to do with –" Before Sydney could finish her sentence we were interrupted.

"Well look at what we have here, boys." Sydney and I both turned in the direction of the voice. "Aint this sweet." I should have guessed this douchebag would be a problem. With arrogance like his, he was bound to have an even bigger ego.

"Not tonight fella's. Now is definitely not the time to –" I gestured waving my hand pointing between me, Lothario and his goons. "whatever this is."

Lothario looked between me and his goons and let out a raucous laugh, his boys joining in on the unmade joke. "You hear that boys, hotshot here thinks she has a choice." All of them smirking, anticipating what's to come as I inwardly rolled my eyes.

Just like a man to think all women are defenseless. Looks like this night just got a lot more interesting. And what's with the stupid name? "Come on, really? Hotshot? What is this, the eighties? You can do better than that." I criticized condescendingly. When in fact I was more than irritated by the intrusion. A few of his goons snickered in the background, he shot them each a look.

Lothario facing me again. "You're really gonna wish you hadn't said that." An evil smirk appeared on his face. Making Sydney sidestep behind, grabbing my right arm to steady her nerves. Just then a car pulled up behind me and Sydney. I glanced in the direction of the noise as the car came to a stop. Leo got out of the car. "Is everything alright here, boss?" He asked as he rounding the vehicle. Leo knew that everything was not alright.

"Everything's fine. These boys and I were just having, 'a little chat', aint that right boys?" Lothario and his goons looked at me, then glanced at Leo. I could see in my peripheral Leo flash his gun, which caused the men to slowly back away.

"Yeah, we were just having a little chat is all." Lothario said, putting his hands in the air while backing up.

"Come on Syd. Let's get you home." I said as I guided her to the car, opening up the door for her to get in. Once she was in I looked at Leo, "Thanks Leo. I appreciate the help." I said as the worry for Sydney's safety had been dissolved.

"No problem boss. But you and I both know you could have handled that alone." He said giving me a playful nudge.

"And what? Risk how she feels about me?" I said nodding in Sydney's direction. "Not a chance." I said with a smile.

The ride to Sydney's didn't take long. Once we made it safely into her apartment I locked the doors while she went into her bedroom. I knew she had to be a little shaken up by what just happened. I was worried for her safety when everything happened, the only thing that kept me from really losing myself control was knowing that Leo was on his way. I couldn't bear the thought of what could have happened if it were just Sydney and I. Leo was right, I could have taken care of the situation myself. The only problem with that scenario would have been some type of fallout between me and Sydney.

She's the one person I don't want to think less of me. Losing her would be detrimental to my own self-worth, or I should say, self-loathing. I couldn't take the chance of losing her, not when I just found her. There's no possible way to stop these strong feelings I have for her. At least for now, we deserve a chance. For as long as I can have her, for as long as time will allow, I'm determined to make the best of what we have.

And right now, her well-being is the only thing that matters to me. I steeled myself as I walked into her room, readying myself for what may come. Hoping that I could find the right words to soothe her worries. Stepping through the threshold of her bedroom, I glanced around the spacious modern room. Only to see it empty.

Further observing my surroundings, taking notice of the smallest of details, the room was devoid of any real color. Everything in here was white, the walls, the plush white carpet, even her goose down comforter was white, along with all of her linens that fit her king sized platform canopy bed. Which was placed by the floor to ceiling windows that spread on the two walls opposite of the bedroom door.

Upon further observations, the only signs of color were her mahogany bedside tables and matching vanity which was next to her bathroom door to the left of where I remained in the doorway. I heard the faucet running, that's when I noticed the bathroom door was slightly ajar. I didn't want to chance peeking in on her, I still hadn't had time to ask her anything. I didn't even know how to broach the subject in the car.

Just then she came into the room and started taking off her earrings, not even sparing a look in my direction. I watched her as she put them in her jewelry box that was on her vanity. She then made her way to her closet, bustling past me in the process. Opening her closet door, only to disappear a moment later. Even from where I was standing the tension in the air was palpable, I didn't know what to do with myself. I worriedly walked to the closet and stood in the doorway, trying to find the words. "Do you want to talk about what happened?" I asked trying to break the tension.

Sydney didn't look in my direction. She just kept searching her closet. I waited for her to say something, anything. I could feel her slipping away from me and that feeling terrified me more than anything. All I could think to do was walk up behind her, so I did. I gently grabbed her arms and put them at her sides, wrapping my arms around her waist. "Syd, please talk to me." I begged, practically a whisper of desperation.

I heard her intake of breath, then she calmly exhaled. "Jordan, why did you have to do that?" She asked calmly, which kind of took me surprise. She's usually one to argue and put up a big fight.

"What did I do, Syd?" I asked, with a furrowed brow. I was more than a little confused.

She turned to face me, pulling herself away from me. A look of concern etched on her beautiful face. "Why did you have to antagonize that whole situation?" Well now I feel like an idiot. I hadn't thought of how she would view the situation. At least in that context. I'm used to not having to explain myself or my actions, since most of the people I know are used to this kind of thing.

"That's not what I was trying to do." I stated feeling defensive.

"Then what were you trying to do, Jordan?" I could see the anger within her about to erupt. I had to try to diffuse this as quick as possible.

I took a deep breath, readying myself for my explanation. I knew she was at her breaking point, and getting angry in return wouldn't help matters. It would only make it worse. "I was trying to buy us enough time for Leo to show up. I knew what those men wanted, and it wasn't going to end with them just letting us go. Those men, they were looking for a fight. I also knew that Leo would take care of it, calmly, making sure no one got hurt." I explained, hoping she would see it from my point of view.

Realization dawning on her. The end of the nights events quickly replaying in her mind. "Syd, I would never intentionally put you in harm's way." I declared as I grabbed both of her hands, pulling her closer to me. I was a little relieved when she didn't resist. "I was only doing what I thought best to protect you. I hope you know that." She nodded her head after taking a moment to think about it.

"I do know that. I'm sorry for overreacting." She said as she leaned in closer to me, wrapping her arms around my shoulders. I was finally able to breathe a real sigh of relief. Thankfully tonight wouldn't end in another argument. "I was just worried you might get hurt."

"It's ok. I understand. I'm sorry for not explaining myself sooner. I should have known you would feel that way." I admitted my thoughts from a few moments ago.

"It's fine. I forgive you." She leaned in further, prolonging the inevitable until I couldn't take it any longer. I kissed her, making her relax into me.

Before the kiss could get more passionate, I pulled away from her. "How about we go to bed. It's late and we had a long eventful night." I could see a flash of disappointment in her eyes. It's not that I didn't want to do anything with her because I did. I mean seriously, you have no idea how difficult it was for me to stop, but I've never been a person to prey on a woman's vulnerabilities. Sydney nodded in agreement after only a few moments.

While Sydney finished changing into her bright pink silk camisole and matching shorts, I opted for my usual boxers and sports bra. I waited by the light switch for Sydney to climb into bed, then switched the light off. Letting my eyes adjust to the dim light just outside. Climbing into to bed next to Sydney, automatically letting her rest her head comfortably in my arms. I placed a kiss on the top of her head. "Goodnight Syd."

"Goodnight baby." She said dreamily. A moment later I heard her breathing relax and I knew she fell asleep. Closing my eyes, I did the same.