Stalking His Claim - Lucy Darling Page 0,38

feel Reed's big warm body come up behind me. He wraps his arms around me. Both of us are looking for some grub now. This feels so natural. As if here in his arms is exactly where I’m meant to be.

“I’ll call down and see if it’s there.” He kisses me on my neck before stepping back to call downstairs. I find us something to drink.

“They are sending it up.” He places his phone on the counter. “I’ll grab it. You don’t have enough clothes on. Stay put.” I roll my eyes. His shirt covers more skin then some dresses do. I still like his jealousy. I snag some plates. I can’t stop smiling thinking this is going to be our lives now. We’re together.

My stomach drops when I hear my father's voice. I rush out, surprised to see Carly and James both standing there too. Everyone turns to look my way. My dad’s eyes drop down to what I’m wearing. I can feel my whole face flush with heat.

“You weren't answering your phone. I had to come check on you.” James stands there ready to enjoy the show.

“I’m fine,” I reassure everyone. Reed comes over and puts his arm around me. My dad lets out a rare curse, running his hand down his face. At least he’s not shouting.

“I’m going to go.” I watch Carly drop a plastic bag on the floor before pushing the button to get back on the elevator. The doors open.

“You got this?” James asks as he puts our food down on the table by the door. Reed gives him a nod. He steps on the elevator with Carly, who mouths to me that I better call her. Even with everything going on, I don’t miss the way James is staring at Carly.

“Dad.”

“Are you okay?” he asks before I can say anything else.

“I’ve never been better.” I try to step closer to my dad. Reed doesn't want to let his hold go of me. I give him a look and he drops his arm from around me. I walk over to hug my dad. We aren't always the closest, but I know he loves me.

“I knew this would come one day, but I thought you needed time after what happened.” He squeezes me tight before letting me go.

“I feel safe with Reed.” It is the truth. I always did. “He knew that too. It’s why he let me come out here.”

“I know.” He lets out a long sigh. I’m taking this as a win. No one is shouting or throwing punches. “I figured it would be a few more years until the two of you ended up together. More time for you to grow up.”

“I am grown up,” I point out.

“Still my little girl.” His eyes go soft.

“Wait. Until we got together?” When he said he thought this would come one day, I thought he meant me dating and everything that goes with that. But he meant Reed and me. I can feel Reed come up behind me. He wraps an arm around my waist and pulls me flush against him.

“I love her,” Reed tells my dad. I melt into him.

“I know.” His eyes drop to me. “But does she love you? You can be-”

“I love him.” I cut my dad off. I know what so many people think of Reed. He can be cold and ruthless. My dad knows he’s never that way with me, but it doesn't mean he wouldn't worry.

“Then that’s all I need to hear.” My dad pulls me in for another hug, kissing the top of my head. “We’re having dinner tomorrow. There are more things to be discussed, but it’s late and I want your mother here for that.”

“Thank you.” I smile up at my dad.

“I love you, pumpkin. If this is what you want it’s what I want. I just needed to hear you say it.” He looks to Reed. “We’ll talk tomorrow too.” He holds his hand out. Reed takes it. They shake for a minute before my dad pulls him in for a hug too, making me smile even bigger before he leaves.

When the elevator doors close leaving Reed and me alone, I jump into his arms. “How did everyone know we were going to end up together but us?” He gives my ass a squeeze.

“I knew.”

“You could have let me know.” I try to glare at him, but all I can seem to do is smile. I wiggle for him to put me down. I