Inevitable

by Kristen Granata

Family can destroy your life. Just ask Romeo and Juliet.

Eva likes this little cat and mouse game we’ve got going on. I like it too.

“You’ve got fire in your veins and passion in your heart. Those vapid, trust-fund kids will never be able to hold a candle to you. You’re different.”

“It’s easy to see you’re nothing like them, Eva. You need to find someone who can appreciate all that you are because you’re incredible.”

“He used to say that fear isn’t real. That it’s created by our minds, and if we let fear control us, then we’re prisoners inside our own bodies. He wasn’t afraid of anything. Not even death.” “Now I know where you get your reckless streak from.” She smiles, a real genuine smile, and something tugs at my heart.

You have to listen in the silence too. That’s when people speak the most.”

“I’m ashamed to want the things I shouldn’t.” “Like what?” “Another life. A fresh start. Doing something selfish for once.” My gaze falls to her lips, and it takes all my power not to claim them. “Wanting you.” Fuck, I shouldn’t have said that. “Why shouldn’t you want me?” Her voice is barely a whisper. “Because I can’t give you what you deserve.” “What if I said that whatever you have to offer would be enough?” She bites her bottom lip, regret churning in her eyes as soon as the honest words leave her mouth. My brave girl.

“You deserve more than just enough, Eva. Don’t ever settle for less than everything you want.”

“I want you, Graham,” I whisper. “And you want me.” He exhales a shaky breath and his jaw flexes. “I do.” “Then take me.” My eyes offer a silent plea, begging him to take me, kiss me, touch me. Devour me.

“What?” Graham tucks a strand of hair behind my ear. “What’s going on inside that beautiful head?” I think I’m falling in love with you. Do I tell him? What if he doesn’t feel the same? What if he does? “Graham, I ...” I swallow the emotion lodged in my throat, and try to push out the words. But I don’t have to, because Graham’s lips crash into mine.

This woman has me wrapped around her finger, bowing down at her feet. I lose any semblance of control when she’s near. And I don’t have any intentions of letting her go. I’m falling for her.

“How naked were you exactly? Like bra-and-thong naked, or a fish could’ve swum up your vagina naked?”