Page 36 of Echoes of Temptation
“King,” I say breathlessly. “Wow. You’re here.”
Without thinking, I rush to him and slam against his body effectively hugging the living daylights out of him.
“I’ve missed you,” I admit.
I wait for those feelings of doubt and anger to come rushing back at the sight of him, but all I feel is happiness.
“And I’ve missed you more than you will ever know,” he says, hugging my back.
“I can’t believe you’re here,” I say, taking a step back. “I didn’t think I would ever see you again. I don’t like you not being in my life.”
“Neither do I, baby,” he smiles down at me.
“I’m better,” I admit shyly. “I’ve been talking to someone about everything that happened. My mind is more than ready to put the past where it belongs. I want to be your friend, again. I mean, if you want to be mine, that is.”
King’s eyes sparkle with happiness.
“Kingston,” someone says, causing yet another embarrassing screech to leave my body.
I watch as a woman walks from behind me and places her hand on King’s shoulder. This has to be the most beautifulwoman I’ve ever seen. She’s tall, has a full figure, long brunette hair, blue eyes, and an absolutely perfect face.
Realization hits me like a ton of bricks as I watch her touch King so comfortably.
Could I be his friend knowing that he’s in a relationship with someone? Someone who looks the complete opposite of myself?
King smirks as he looks down at me.
He’s probably laughing his butt off on the inside at how desperate I sounded. I wasn’t lying though. I really am ready to put everything in the past. I’m at a good spot in my life right now. King walking away and giving me that time was something I will always be grateful for. If he would have kept pushing me I would have grown to resent him.
So, I simply shrug. So what if he saw my jealousy towards his new girlfriend.
“Cortney, this is Madeline. Baby, this is Cortney.”
Why the heck is he calling me baby in front of his supermodel-looking girlfriend? I refuse to be the reason for an argument.
“Hello,” I smile up at the woman. “Would you guys like to come inside? I can’t be hospitable from out here, now can I?”
I laugh awkwardly before stepping around them and letting them inside my apartment.
“So, not that I’m complaining, but is there a reason for this surprise visit?”
“Madeline,” King says.
“I have bottled water, sweet tea, and milk,” I say. “What’s your poison?”
“Water, please,” the woman says kindly.
“King?”
“Madeline.”
“I’ll just grab you a water, as well,” I mumble, grabbing two bottles. “Okay, where were we?”
Yeah, I’m stalling. Sue me.
I gesture at my small kitchen table before we all take a seat.
“Madeline.”