Raspberry Girl (sneak peek safe for Patreon)

“I’m sorry I’m so tired.” You’re still nestled into him in bed, cheek to chest, slipping in and out of snoring as he turns the pages of a paperback.

“It’s okay baby. You work hard, you need rest.” It’s a slow Sunday, and you need rest. Eight to ten hours a day on your feet, constantly moving, kneading, lifting, rolling… it all takes a toll, one he wishes he could alleviate, though he’d never take your passion from you.

Right now, there’s nothing to do but take care of you, he’s already made you breakfast, cleaned up, taken Duchess for another walk. Now she’s snuffling at the foot of the bed, little puppy belly turned up towards the ceiling, paws in the air. You yawn.

“I need a vacation.”

“Mmm,” he strokes a line down your back, chasing the goosebumps. It’s not a terrible idea, take you away for a bit, get you out of town and into the sun. Maybe… “Where would you go?” Your brow crinkles.

“I don’t know… I’ve always wanted to go to Lisbon. For the bakeries. And the beach…” You trail off and avert your eyes. “I’ve always been… it’s too much to go alone and I don’t really have anyone…” your pulse flickers under your jaw as he cups it.

“I’ll take you, sweetheart. If that’s what you want. I’ll take you anywhere.” Lisbon is more than doable, it’s safe, and easy for him to navigate. It won’t be an issue.

“Really?” You brighten, lip tucked beneath teeth, corners lifting into a smile.

“Of course.” He’d give you anything, everything. Take you anywhere. A yawn drags your mouth into a circle. “Why don’t you close your eyes for a bit longer.”

“‘m not tired anymore.” Brat. He raises an eyebrow, and you look away sheepishly. “Okay well… maybe for a little.” Good girl. “Can we take Duchess to the park? Later?” It’s your new favorite thing. A long loop down the street to the green space and back, a solid rhythm he’s working to settle you in so you can continue the habit when he’s away.

“Sure baby. Now close your eyes.”