The Cuddle Clause

by Roxie Ray

Naturally, I opened it.

The way he kissed like he was anchoring himself to the moment. Like I was the moment.

something sweet I hadn’t earned, but I kept chasing it anyway.

I started slow, savoring the drag, the way her body molded around mine like she’d been built for me alone.

“Just like that,” I groaned, pressing my forehead to hers. “You take me so well, baby. Made for this cock. Made for me.”

“You’re not just important to me,” I said. “You’re everywhere. I feel you everywhere. Like—” I let out a shaky breath, searching for the words. “You regulate my nervous system just by being in the room.”

head. “I feel… seen. Safe. Like I can be myself around you, too. No shrinking. No pretending.”

If only you knew how hard I’m trying not to love you.

“She is,” I said. “She’s loud when she’s nervous. She eats dry cereal straight from the box and leaves mugs everywhere. She hums off-key in the shower. She drives me absolutely insane.” My voice cracked a little then. “And I don’t think I’ve ever felt more myself than I do when I’m with her.”

“But…” She held up a finger. “If he breaks your heart, he’s evicted. On the spot. I won’t even give him thirty days. I’ll haul his furry little ass out with my own two hands.”