Liam informs the rest of his team and Erika that he's taking me home and for the guys to help Erika close the gallery.
Erika pulls me to the side.
Erika: I knew you where holding back but Why? Why didn't you tell me?
Willow: It's just not something I like to talk about.
She swoops me into a bear hug before reluctantly letting go as Liam calls for me to join him.
She flashes a warm friendly smile and nods.
Erika: We got this.
I mouth the words thank you to Erika and give a shy wave to the team as I turn to Liam waiting with his inviting smile for me at the door of the security room. His hand naturally falling to my lower back as he guides me through the back exit avoiding the straggling crowd escorting me to his car.
The car ride is quite. David's words pound in my head as tears begin to build again.
With out taking his eyes off the road Liam brings my hand to his lips placing a soft kiss to the back of it before resting it in my lap. The gesture is soothing.
When we arrive to my house Liam hops out of the car scanning the area before opening my door and leading me inside.
I watch as he goes into Jason Borne mode checking the perimeter. Once he feels everything is safe he follows me into the kitchen where I heat up some water for tea and throw together a turkey avocado sandwich cutting it in half. I poor the teas and lead him to the couch.
Liam: This is probably the best turkey sandwich I've ever had.
I giggle in disbelief.
Willow: Thank you Liam for tonight.
Liam smiles at me. Finishing his last bite of sandwich.
Willow: So what now that the jobs over.
I ask finishing my half of the sandwich.
Liam furrows his brows.
Liam's: It's not over!
I tuck my legs beneath me brushing my knee against his as I settle into the couch sipping my tea.
Willow: Isn't it?
Liam: Not until I know that piece of shit is back in New York.
Willow: But my dad only hired you for opening night right?
Liam looks to me with a little confusion.
Liam: I told you this isn't about the job.
He pushes my hair behind my ear and runs his fingers along my jaw line brushing his thumb over my lips.
Liam: I didn't take this job for the money.
He stares into my eyes intensely with his full of desire. I swallow hard trying to find my voice. I let a bated huff and bite my lip nervously.
Liam: When your dad sent the file I took one look at your photo and I just knew....
Willow: knew what?
His fingers run along my jaw to my chin.
Liam:That I needed to protect you. Not because i was going to get paid but because I wanted to.
I couldn't help but let out a little nervous giggle at the seriousness and longing in his gaze.
He wanted me and truth was I wanted him! His lips crash into mine with intense need.
Liam: I want you Willow.