The Mysterious and Amazing Blue Billings (Black and Blue #1)

by Lily Morton

“Is that too personal?” He shrugs, looking perplexed. “I never know what’s polite or not, to be honest. I hate chit-chat. If I’m interested, I’ll ask questions. It’s the only way to get to know anything.”

“Did you just ask me to come and stay with you, Levi?” I expect him to laugh but instead he nods earnestly. “Yes. Come and stay with me. I know it’s spooky and the ghosts are probably homicidal, but at least you’ll be able to lie in a bed and have a bath before they gruesomely murder you in your sleep.”

“It’s the battle scene music from Gladiator. I used to play it before I got into a row with Mason to get me in the mood.” I shake my head. “The more I hear about your relationship, the more I think it’s better all round that you’re single.” I listen to the music for a few seconds. “Is this supposed to fill the ghosts with dread?” He shrugs. “Well, it is Russell Crowe.”

For a second we smile at each other, and I remember all the good times we had together. It’s strange how far away they seem now. He was my first love, and it’s a relief to suddenly know that he won’t be my last. He was a rung on my ladder, and I feel a weight release as I realise that he hasn’t broken me.

“I’ll stop now,” he says steadily. “Any time you want it to stop, you tell me and I’ll do it.” “That’s not fair,” I whisper. He shakes his head. “There’s no such thing as not fair in sex, Blue. It isn’t about keeping score and it certainly isn’t something you have to do to make me happy. I’m happy with you anyway.”