Committed (Book 2) (30 Days) (5 page)

COLIN
I open my eyes slowly. The sky’s still velvety dark outside. I feel a warm sleep heavy arm draped across my stomach. Her head on my shoulder, her face tucked into my neck. One arm slung across my waist and a leg wrapped around my leg. Her breathing heavy and steady. Elle. I close my eyes and drift back to sleep with my girl safe and sound in my arms.
I wake at eight and Elle is still asleep in my arms. I try not to stir too much because I don't want to wake her. She looks so peaceful and at ease. She probably needs the sleep. Waiting for her to wake up I memorize every freckle, line and divot of her face. She’s stunning and she's mine. Her lips part in the most adorable way when she sleeps forming a perfect little o shape and her breath quietly glides in and out hypnotically. Her long black lashes rest on her cheeks making her skin look creaming in contract. Her eyes fluttered open around nine. Two brilliant green orbs stare back at me.
“Were you watching me
sleep?
” Her voice is still rough from sleep and it’s cute. The corners of my mouth twitch.
“So?” I challenge.
“That’s weird. I don't want you to watch me drool or snore or something else that might be horrific.” She chuckles.
“You do none of those things. Don't worry.”
“Uh huh, sure.” Her fingers grip the nape of my neck and pull my mouth to hers. We kiss lazily, just enjoying each other. “I have something for you.”
“Oh?” She asks one eyebrow cocking. I reach below me just under the bed and pull out the box I asked Jenna to bring up with her. Elle scoots up so her backs propped against the headboard as I place the box in her lap. Her fingers trace the top of the box lingering there without opening it.
“Well...” I prompt. She turns her head towards me and her green eyes shimmer with unshed tears. “What’s wrong?”
“I don't know. I just... you just do too much. I’ve been so alone for the last month, alone with my thoughts, alone physically...and now I’m not. It’s just an adjustment I guess.” I pull her tightly to my chest letting the box slip from her lap and land between us.
“Elle, It’s not too much, it’s never too much. I love you.” I push her hair over one shoulder exposing her collarbone and plant a soft kiss on it. She breaks our embrace and grinning takes the box and removes the lid. I watch as her expression changes from curious to disbelief to awe.
She pulls out the first item turning it over to make sure it’s the original. “You kept this?” I nod and smirk at her. She sets aside the first note I ever wrote to her and pulls out the next thing; the movie stub from our first date. As she peers into the box understanding washes over her features. “You have something from everything?” She squeaks.
“Yeah. There’s something from everything we did.” She fishes through the box laughing and asking me if I remember this or that. I love watching her face light up with happy memories. She especially loves the picture of us in the Ferrari together, claiming I have the most ridiculous grin on my face in it. As she nears the bottom I start getting tense with anticipation. She pulls out a ribbon with a key attached to it. It dangles in the air between us and her brow furrows as she tries to place what day it’s attached to.
“Alright, I don't get this one.” She huffs and I chuckle.
“That’s the key.” I deadpan.
“
What
key?”
“THE key.” I state.
“THE key to what?” She hisses clearly getting irritated.
“The key to your new shop.” This shuts her up momentarily as she eyes me warily.
“What shop?”
“Your florist shop, and before you throw a fit, I rented it with
your
money...so technically you gave it to yourself.” Her face goes warm and soft and she blinks rapidly sputtering.
“You rented a shop for me? I can run a florist shop?”
“Yeah. I know you always wanted to do that...and Searsport is on the water so you can have your beach house eventually to complete the dream.” Throwing herself into my arms with such ferocity that I’m afraid she might choke me she squeals her joy and covers me in kisses. “I want to see it right away!”
“We can stop there first when we get back.” I chuckle.
“I love that.” She gazes at me with a small smile.
“What?” I ask.
“Your laugh. It’s hot.” She looks at me through long black lashes and I’m lost. She owns me.

ELLE
My heart is pounding with anticipation the entire drive back to Searsport. After showering, another romp in the hay and a late breakfast with the group everyone piled into their respective cars to make the drive home. I’ve been bouncing with excitement the whole way and Colin is having a great time poking fun at me over it.
“I just want to know what it looks like. What street is it on?”
“I’m not telling you anything. You know enough for now.”
“Seriously?! Totally unfair. I’m going to have a coronary.” She whines.
“Relax Elle, we’re almost there.” My face hurts from smiling non-stop for the last three hours, on top of that my bladder feels like it might explode any moment but I didn't want to delay our arrival.
Once we’re in Searsport he heads towards the gym making a right just after it. Pulling the car into a spot, on the same side of the road as the coffee shop where Jenna and I met, he puts the car in park, jumps out, runs around to my side and gets my door for me. Grabbing my hand and lacing his fingers through mine he walks me to the door of a storefront with a vacant sign in the window. The location is perfect. The streets lined with cute boutiques, a coffee shop and there is plenty of traffic and parking. The plate glass window next to the front door is huge and will give a great view to all the passerby's of what’s inside. Colin sets the key in my hand and urges me forward. I twist the key in the lock and push the door open.
Stepping inside the first thing I notice is that it’s been recently painted. Soothing blues and greens cover the walls in an alternating fashion. Above the plate glass window is a beautiful Angela Adams print valance. Towards the back sits a large counter with a register on it and lining the walls on either side are chilled cases to keep flowers fresh. I whirl around to face Colin.
“Did you do all this? It all looks new.”
“Well, I had a lot of help.” He smirks.
“It’s amazing... you guys are amazing!” He tugs my hand and drags me behind the register through a door into the backroom. It has a large bank of counters set up as an island in the middle making a perfect place to arrange flowers. Off to the left in the corner is a bathroom and to the right is a desk with a laptop, printer and lamp on it. Without thinking I dash to the bathroom to relieve myself. I can hear Colin chuckle through the door. “What? I didn't want to waste time before.” I shout to him.
Exiting the bathroom I notice three large framed chalkboards with easel stands on them.
“We thought you could stand those outside with different specials on them, you know, to draw people in.” I am so completely overtaken with gratitude that tears start leaking from my eyes.
“Everything is perfect. You all are perfect. We should celebrate tonight! Do you think everyone will be up to champagne and a picnic dinner here?”
“I think that can be arranged.” He laughs. Suddenly it hits me that I don't have a home to go home to. The cottage is gone and I ended up having to pay for the damages to the bathroom door, although I have no recollection of it being broken, the blood stain on the kitchen floor and the splatter in the entryway. Colin seems to sense my change in mood. “You’re staying with me.” He states.
“What about Jenna?” I ask hesitantly.
“Don’t you want me?” Distress written all over his face.
“That’s not fair. I just don't want to ruin things with us by moving too fast.” I say shyly.
“Elle. There’s no hope of that, ever.” He grins.
“Did you see the bathroom door at the cottage? I paid for a new one but I don't remember it being broken, I mean Mick and I were nowhere near it.”
Colin looks to the floor and shuffles his feet. “I might have put my fist through it when I couldn't find you. Elle,” His eyes come to mine, “you have to understand how helpless I felt. I couldn't find you, there was blood, I... I thought you were gone.” I cross the room and wrap my arms around his waist, hugging him tightly to me. “I’m not gone though, I’m right here.” I smile up at him as he brushes my overgrown bangs from my face.
“Sorry ‘bout the door.” I can't help it. I burst out laughing. It’s not exactly that it’s funny, but I’m so delirious with varying emotions from the last twenty four hours that right now I could really care less about a door. “Screw the door Colin.” I giggle. His dimple pops out with his smile and he laughs with me.
It took Jenna and I both to convince Ben and Colin to go out for a while and leave us to some girl time. Neither one of the guys thought it was a good idea for us to be un-chaperoned. “They are being ridiculous.” I complain once we’ve witnessed them pulling away in Ben’s car.
“They’re worried about you.” Jenna reasons.
“I’m fine.”
“
You’re
fine but that doesn't mean you’re safe. We know about the death threat Elle.”
“Wine. Now. Then you spill.” I clip. She shoots me a pointed look but complies. We sit curled up on her couch for the next hour while she explains what happened here in Searsport during my absence. I feel guilty hearing how the four of them suffered and worried over me. I also had no idea that everything Joe told Colin, Colin then told Ben, Jenna and John. None of it is a secret but I really don't want people worrying over me about every little thing.
“Jenna, you realize that I endured Ryan for years. He threatened me plenty during that time. He’s a messed up person. I don't really think he’d
kill
me though. He wants my money, how will he get it if I’m dead? That’s not even rational.” I state.
“Elle, I’m just saying, go easy on them, especially Colin, he was a disaster without you.”
“I know. I was too.” I stare into my empty wine glass. Jenna snorts and grabs my glass refilling it for me.
“You two are so gross.” She teases.
“What? Like you and Ben aren’t all rainbows and unicorns right now too?!” The look on her face is priceless and we fall into giggles together. By the time the guys come back to the apartment we’ve packed up sandwiches, more wine, and all the appropriate glass and dishware for our picnic.
Jenna had Ben pick up a bottle of champagne on his way back and further instructed him to pick up John. They sound like a herd of elephants as the march up the stairs to Jenna’s apartment door, hot elephants, but loud nonetheless.

JENNA
The look of sheer joy on Elle’s face was worth the work on this place. We’re all sitting on the floor of the shop eating our sandwiches and chips. John and Ben keep babbling on about what a pain it was to pick out paint colors because they’d wanted it to be just right and Elle quietly laughs at them. Colin watches her every move and it makes me worried that he won't be able to let go of what’s happened even though she’s back. I don't want him to smother her and ruin everything they’ve fought for. Ben glances my way during a lull in the conversation and his smile makes my breath catch. He’s so handsome it almost kills me. Without Elle there would be no Ben and I and I am eternally grateful for that day at the coffee shop when she blew into my life.
John pours champagne into our glasses as Elle speaks up. “You guys, I don't know what to say. This is the best surprise ever. I am truly blessed to have you all in my life and to call you friends. When I came here, I had no intention of making any connections with ...well,
anyone
. I wanted to hide and live out my life quietly alone. Colin,” she looks to him with love pouring from her, “you shocked me, literally, with a handshake and because of that, and you...I now have the two hottest male friends ever.” She winks at the boys. “And of course the sexiest boyfriend.” She giggles. “And Jenna, that stupid list
was
awesome but it also is the reason I met you, and I’m so glad I did. You are the closest thing I have to a sister anymore,” The hurt in her voice makes my eyes well up. “but I can’t imagine anyone filling that role outside of you. So thank you so, so, sooooo much for just being you guys!” Colin throws a hand up to stop everyone from drinking.
“Before we cheers, I just want to say that although you paid for this shop and the renovations,” We all chuckle. “There is nothing we wouldn't do for you Elle. This was your dream and after everything you’ve been through it seemed like a small thing to do for you.” Everyone nods their head agreeing with his well put words as we raise up our plastic cups and clink them together before downing the contents.
“Now, there’s one more surprise.” Colin states. Four sets of eyes turn to him as he walks behind the counter, pulls out a bag and comes back to us.
“I made Danishes!” Elle squeals with delight and snatches the bag out of his hands causing us all to burst out laughing as Colin stands there staring at her empty handed like she’s lost her mind. She really does have an insane addiction to Danishes.

COLIN
How she’s not a complete disaster I’ll never know. It seems that no one can break her spirit. Even after everything she’s experienced, the abuse, being committed, abducted, her entire family dying, she’s able to love and be loved. She smiles and is caring and kind and grateful. She amazes me more and more each passing day. I can't wait until November’s over and she’s actually single. Knowing that she’s still legally that monsters wife makes my blood boil.
“What are you doing today?” Sweat drips down her chest drawing my eye away from her face to watch the droplet roll further.
“Meeting with Joe, then I need to try to get permits and all that jazz for the shop! I need a name.” She rambles. Her excitement level has been through the roof since showing her the shop.
“Want company?” I ask.
“Colin, you can't babysit me. I’m fine. You have clients to train.” The dagger’s she’s shooting at me should make me run away but I know better. She can’t scare me.
“I’m free until three. Just let me come with.” I plead. The idea of Elle alone in public terrifies me. What if something happens or Ryan makes good on his threat. She narrows her pretty green eyes at me and wrinkles her nose in frustration.
“You’re coming whether I want you to or not aren't you?” She bristles.
“Yup.” I chuckle.
“Well get a move on it and meet me at home in an hour.” She turns on her heel and stalks out of the gym.
“Yeah Colin, get a move on. Maybe while you’re out you can find your balls.” Ben chortles at me.
“Dude. Not. Cool.”
“Seriously, you have to let her breathe.” John chimes in. I toss my hands up in the air at them both.
“What if something happens?”
“What if it does? What are you gonna pistol whip anyone who looks at her funny for the rest of time?” Ben teases.
“If she thinks you’re babysitting her something will happen, you being dumped.” John laughs.
“I’m glad you all find this amusing but seriously...”
“Listen, we can all keep an eye on her without her feeling like she's being smothered. Just listening to you made me want to punch you in your vagina, I can’t imagine what she wanted to do.” Ben chuckles.
“Well do either of you two douchebags have any bright ideas?”
“GPS in her phone brotha!” Ben really needs someone to knock the smug look off his face.
“Actually, that’s a good idea. She needs a new cell.”
“In your face!” John doubles over in laughter at Ben’s enthusiasm while I still maintain the idea that knocking him out would be best but can't help chuckling a little.
“Take it down a notch Ben. I gotta get going otherwise Elle might leave without me.” I turn and head to the locker room to shower while John still gasps trying to catch his breath from laughter.
By the time I get home Elle is pacing back and forth and furious with me for apparently taking too long. She’s worked herself into quite the tizzy and although I know she’s mad I can't help but laugh at her. She’s adorable when fuming.
“Seriously Colin! I’m supposed to meet Joe in ten minutes! Why are you laughing? This isn't funny!” She barks making me laugh harder.
“Sorry.” I cough and try to shut up. She sighs and glares at me. “Ready to go?”
“Oh my God! Yes.” She squawks.
“Ok then, let’s get out of here!” I chuckle. She rolls her eyes at me and storms out the door. I manage to pull myself together and catch up to her just before she makes the left onto the main drag.
“Elle. Come on babe. Wait up.” She falters mid step and slows, waiting for me.
“Don't laugh at me when I’m upset.” Her arms cross over her chest and her bottom lip pops out.
“I’m sorry, you’re just really,
really
cute when you’re mad.” I grab her hand and twine our fingers together.
“I’m not supposed to be cute, I’m supposed to seem menacing.” She huffs.
“Totally menacing, you are scary when mad.” I toss my free hand up in retreat. Her lips twitch. “I’m going to walk you to the door, then I need to run an errand.”
“Oh?” Her head tilts to the side exposing her neck and I want to taste the skin there.
“Yeah, what time are you done with Joe?”
“Um, I think probably an hour.” She says.
“Great, see you then.” I grab her face between my hands and kiss her until she's gasping for air. “I love you.” She stares up at me with those intoxicating green eyes and smiles. “I love you too.” I watch to make sure she's inside the building before taking off for the Sprint store a couple blocks over.