Sounds Like You're Begging Me For It, Eleanor

"Oh my god, is he OK? When's his surgery?" My heart thumped in my chest. Please be OK, Pedro!

"He's fine. He's in pain, obviously. But the doctors have given him some pain relief. He'll be going into surgery in the next 10 minutes. He just wanted to call you to tell you. But he's not making a lot of sense at the moment, the pain killers have kicked in!" Javiera giggled down the phone. Hearing her find amusement helped to steady my heart.

"What happened?"

"We have no idea. We just heard a massive thump and found him groaning at the bottom of the stairs!" Replaying the memory caused Javiera to laugh uncontrollably. Her laugh was similar to Pedro's and warmed my heart.

"And he's definitely going to be OK?" Hearing Javiera being able to make a joke of it made me feel a lot better, but I was still nervous for him and his surgery. I felt guilty about being here in England.

"Yeah, honestly he's going to be fine. He just needs to have the bone fused back together and pinned. Once he's out, I'll text you. And when he's feeling better, I'll get him to call you."

"Thank you, Javi. I'm so sorry I can't be there. I feel awful."

"Don't be! It's not your fault and we all understand. We'll take care of him till you get back here again." Fuck. I knew she didn't mean to upset me but the realisation that I couldn't care for Pedro, especially when he needed me, hit hard. I wanted to be at his bed side and laugh at the gibberish he came out with. I wanted to be with him pre and post surgery to let him know he was going to be OK and I was going to look after him. We never factored in how we could physically care for each other in times like this when we agreed to do long distance. I had 6 days to make the decision on whether I was staying home or going back to L.A. If I stayed in England, I wouldn't be able to see Pedro till at least April, if my annual leave got approved. If it didn't, then it would be July. If I went back to L.A, I wouldn't see any of my family or friends till the middle of the year. How the fuck was I meant to choose!? "You still there, Eleanor?"

"Yeah, sorry I'm still here."

"Honestly, don't worry. He'll be OK. We'll keep you posted. If you need anything, you know where we are."

"Thank you so much. Tell Pedro I'll be there as soon as possible!"

"I will. Speak to you later, honey." And with that she ended the call.

What the fuck am I going to do?

****************************************"Are you excited for tonight?" Pedro's voice was like silk down the phone. His surgery had gone well and he was home and recovering in a sling. He had sent me multiple pictures and videos of his sling adventures, and all the new things he struggled with now being momentarily one handed. Of course, Pedro had broken the shoulder of his right side and being right handed, this caused for a lot of mishaps.

"Yeah it's going to be so nice having time with all the girls. We never get to do it now everyone has their own lives and families." I gripped back my hair from my face as I touched up my makeup. I was looking forward to tonight. But I knew it was bittersweet. I hadn't told anyone but Dad and Oli that I'd made my decision. And I was going back to L.A. I was constantly consumed by the feeling of missing Pedro that it hadn't been the experience I'd hoped for when I came home. I spent my time wondering what he was up to and texting him all the time. I didn't see my friends as often as I thought I would. Even Olivia wasn't readily available like she used to be. She had taken up a new role with my Dad and she loved it. Lending her hand in a new interior design role brought out a new side to her. She'd always wanted to do design but found herself comfortable in her old role. Which made her miserable both in and outside work. Now she had a job she loved and she was thriving in all aspects of her life. I cried when I told Dad and Oli. But they reassured me that it was the right thing to do. They knew I'd made a life for myself out there. And whilst they'd miss me, they promised to come visit me. I hadn't told Pedro because I wanted to surprise him. I would be seeing him in two days. He had no idea.

"Well you be careful, honey."

"I will. I always am. I'm only wearing a little heel so I should be fine. No broken bones for me." I teased at his recent accident.

"Well, I meant be careful, you know. Of the men, too. But yes, let me take the one for the team on the broken bone front."

"Does it still hurt?" I moved over to the wardrobe to grab my outfit.

"Not really. It's sore, but doesn't hurt. And I have pain relief if I need it."

"I wish I was there to look after you." I will be soon, my Pedro.

"Me too. I miss you. Do you know when you'll next be over here?" There was a sad undertone to his voice. I knew he really missed me, but he tried to act like he was stronger to not upset me.

"It's looking like March, maybe April. If I can come sooner, I promise I will."

"It's OK, baby. It'll be OK. I'll see if I have any engagements in London soon, I can make the trip up to you."

"We will figure something out." I stifled the smile that spread across my face knowing that he had no idea we could be reunited in a few days.

"I'll leave you to get ready, Eleanor. Have a great night, babe. Text me a photo of you please."

"I will. I love you. See you soon!"

"I love you. Bye babe." He ended the call and I finished getting ready. For one last night out with the girls in a while.

***********************************

"Cheers girlies!" Olivia called out as we clinked our glasses of wine together. "God I wish we could do this all the time!" She sipped her wine. As I took as gulp of mine, I realised that this was a factor in my decision to move back. I'd wanted to come home and have the experience of being with my friends all the time. To always having Oli and Theo around. But I didn't have that anymore. Oli and Jess had other friends with other babies who would go on play dates and go to birthday parties and have plans with. My friends were moving in together and having babies of their own and demanding jobs that would make them tired and want to be in bed for 9pm. We were adults now. We wasn't in our early twenties spending our wages on girls nights and holidays. We had families and work and responsibilities and relationships. Everyone had their persons. But mine was half way across the world. Waiting for me.

"Actually, girls. I need to tell you something." I called out. Suddenly, all eyes were on me. I felt my chest tightened.

"Oh my god, you're not pregnant are you?" Lucy's eyes widened, her comment caused small talk across the table.

"No! No, I'm not pregnant!" I nervously giggled, "As you know I have to make a decision to stay here or move back to L.A. And I've made the choice. I'm going back to L.A!" It was real. It was out in the open now. Work knew. My family knew. They knew.

"Oh my god, Elle! That's so great!" Emma grabbed my hand and squeezed it. "Well, you know we'll miss you like crazy. But you belong there. You were thriving there. And lest we forget, you have fucking Pedro Pascal waiting in L.A for you!" Emma's comment caused a fit of giggles around the table.

"I'm going to miss you all so much. I'll come back and visit. And please come and visit me. You'll love L.A!"

"Oh we definitely will. Maybe we could do L.A for your birthday?" Emma looked around the table to encourage the other girls to get on board.

"Absolutely!"

"That would be amazing!"

"Yes, girls trip to L.A!"

"Thank you girls. Honestly, I love you all so much."

"We love you, Elle!" Before I could say anything, all 5 of the girls were surrounding my chair and hugging me close. I loved them so much.

***********************************************

I'd posted a photo to my Instagram story that Olivia had taken of me. My DMs had been going crazy, but one in particular got my full attention:

@pascalispunk: why are you covering your face!? I MISS YOU!!

I had replied with a picture of myself, sipping my drink and telling him I missed him too. I had locked my phone and put it back on my bag.

"Do you girls want a drink?" I asked as I stood up from the chair. Their girly unison collectively opted for margaritas so I went with the flow and made my way to the bar. As I stood waiting for the drinks, a guy came up next to me and smiled. I half smiled back, out of curiosity. But instantly regretted it when he tried to make small talk.

"Hey." His voice was really low and dark. Which matched his wide build physique and tall height. He was around 6' 5 and towered over me. 

"Hey." I replied, but kept my eyes forward on the bar.

"Can I get you a drink?"

"I've already got the round in, thank you."

"Let me pay for it."

"It's already paid for."

"So let me buy you the next one."

"I have a boyfriend. But thank you." I hoped my comment would push him away, but I knew how men worked. I sensed this wouldn't work out.

"Is he here with you?" Nope; he's in America and could do absolutely nothing to help me right now.

"Not tonight."

"So I don't see how that would be an issue if I brought you a drink."

"I'm fine, thank you." I saw the bartender heading over to me with a tray of our drinks and felt my shoulders relax knowing I could leave this situation soon. "Have a good night." I smiled at the guy before I grabbed the drinks and headed back to the table. I placed them down and grabbed my bag, excusing myself to go to the bathroom. Whilst using the toilet, I pulled out my phone and text Pedro.

Me: Creepy guy at the bar tried to buy me a drink. I turned him down, obviously. Where's my Pedro when I need him? Miss you. Xxx

Pedro: not your fault but I'm so angry right now!! Please be careful. I miss you. Xxxxxxxx

Me: I can look after myself! I've got the girls. Not sure you could have done much with one arm though.

Pedro: Believe me, I could do enough damage with one arm if your safety was at stake. PLEASE BE CAREFUL BUT ALSO PLEASE ENJOY YOUR NIGHT XX

My possessive Pedro!

When I returned to the table, I noticed that Emma wasn't there and I hadn't seen her in the toilets.

"Where's Emma?" I asked as I put my bag down on my seat.

"She's at the bar. She knocked your drink over so she's replacing it." I looked over and saw her at the bar with the same creepy guy who had tried to talk to me. I felt I needed to go over and rescue her. So I did.

"Hey." I purposely stood between her and this guy to keep him away from her. Pedro's words rang in my head, telling me to be safe. But I didn't want anything to happen to my friends.

"Hey babe. I knocked your drink over so I'm just getting you another. And a round of baby Guinness!" She giggled as she put her phone away. I could feel the guys stare burning into the back of my head but did my best to ignore him.

"Girls night?" He called out behind us. Emma looked at me then at the guy with the same disinterest I had earlier gave him.

"Yeah." She turned her attention back to me and asked if I had a date when I'd be going back to L.A.

"In two days."

"Fuck, that's so close. Are you all sorted?"

"Yeah I think so. I have been living out my suitcase anyway, I've not even got round to properly unpacking so it'll be easy for me to sort." The bartender placed the margarita on the bar in front of us and Emma slid it towards me.

"I'm gonna miss you so much." She hugged me. I hugged her back, both of us gripping onto each other and squeezing tight. We broke up the hug as the bartender placed the shot tray down and thanked us. I turned back to see if the creepy guy was still there. He was. He lifted his glass and toasted me with a smirk on his face. Something about his gesture seemed sinister to me, but I shook it off and rejoined the girls.

"To Eleanor, and the next chapter of her life!" Emma toasted as we threw back the shots. I loved baby Guinness and could have easily drank the whole tray of them. But I was pacing myself, not wanting to get drunk so I could go for a run tomorrow morning. I'd had three drinks so far and had drank a glass of water in between each one to stay hydrated. Ever since I'd made the decision to go home, I found the motivation to be the best version of myself again. I'd started eating again. I was going to the gym regularly. I was reading my books and drinking my water. I knew it was because I wanted to be the best version of myself for when I saw Pedro again. I couldn't wait to see him.

I was dancing with the girls near our table. I'd just gulped down the last of my drink and placed the glass on the table. With difficulty. As first I stumbled then managed to catch myself. My head felt fuzzy. I needed some more water. I went to head over to the bar but Olivia grabbed me as Spice Girls came on and wouldn't let me leave without dancing to one of our favourite childhood songs. I tried my best to keep up with Olivia's dance moves but my body wouldn't function right. I could see colourful swirls everywhere and my body felt heavy.

"Elle, are you OK?" Olivia's voice vibrated in my ears. Everything seemed slow motion. I answered her in my head but I couldn't get the words out. I felt like I was trapped in my own body. "Elle, oh my god! Luce help! Somethings wrong with Elle!"

"I gonna, I'm gon-" Was all I could force out before everything went dark.

****************************************

Beep. Beep. Beep.

I felt my toes twitch as I regained my consciousness. I fluttered my eyes opened to see a darkly lit hospital room. There was a monitor on the right of me and an empty bed opposite. The sudden realisation of where I was kicked in and I panicked.

"Hey hey, it's OK babe I'm here." My head shot over to the a left and saw Olivia in the chair next to my bed with her jacket covering her arms like a blanket. "You scared the shit out of me."

"What happened?" I had barely any memory of anything but trying to dance with Liv.

"We think you've been spiked. We're waiting on your blood tests. It was fucking terrifying. I've never seen you like that."

"Fuck. Fuck! That's so scary. Thank you for looking after me." I subconsciously pulled the thin white sheet closer to my body.

"I'm so glad we were there to look after you. God knows what could have happened if we wasn't. Do you have any memory of anything?"

"Bits. I remember dancing with you but feeling funny. And I remember that weird guy at the bar."

"The tall guy?" Olivia quizzed.

"Yeah?"

"Funny you should say that because Emma said she bet it was him." Olivia's eyes widened as she spoke. Although my memory was foggy, I remembered his face vividly.

"He raised his glass to me and I thought it was pretty sinister but fuck, it would make sense. And and I left my drink on the bar whilst I was hugging Emma. Fuck. Shit. How could I be so stupid?"

"Elle, this isn't your fault! Don't be blaming yourself. But you'll have to let the police know. They want to speak with you anyway."

"I'm sorry for ruining our last night out together for a while."

"Shut the fuck up bitch," I laughed at her comment, "this isn't your fault. You didn't ruined anything. I'm just so glad we were with you." She leant forward and kissed my head. "I've let Pedro know because I know you'd want to keep him updated."

"Thank you. How did he take it?" My sweet Pedro. I know he'd be worried sick.

"Errrrrr," She giggled nervously. "He's pretty fucking angry. Rightfully so. I had to beg him not to fly over this week. I've told him you're safe. He just asked you to call him when you're feeling better."

"Bless him. He'll be so worried. He doesn't need this right now."

"Well it's not like you did it on purpose Elle."

"I know, I know. He just worries about me."

"He really cares for you. He sounded like he was going to cry on the phone."

"Aw bless him. I'll call him soon."

"Call him now. He'll wanna hear from you. I'll give you some privacy and go get some coffee. I'd offer you one but I don't think you can have anything but water at the moment." She leant forward and kissed my head. "You'll be the death of me, Parker. I'll be back soon." She dropped my phone on my lap and left the room.

I saw I had a couple text messages from my friends, who were clearly worried about me. I didn't have any texts from Pedro and I knew it was because Olivia had called and kept him in the loop. So I hit call on his name and pressed the phone to my ear.

"Hey babe. Fuck. How are you?" I could instantly hear the worry in his voice.

"I'm good. I'm OK. I'm sorry."

"Why the fuck are you sorry? You've done nothing wrong. Apart from scare the shit outta me!" There was a small giggle in his voice and I could picture the corners of his eyes curling as he smiled. "You sure you're OK?"

"Yeah I'm still in hospital. I don't know how much Olivia has told you."

"She told me that they think some asshole has spiked you."

"We're just waiting on the test results. I'm fine now. I'm so thankful I was with the girls."

"Hmmm me too. I wish I could have been there with you. I wouldn't have let that happen." I couldn't quite work out if Pedro was blaming my friends for what happened. His comment had annoyed me.

"It's not their fault. They didn't know. And if anything, I think it was my own fault."

"I doubt you'd let yourself get spiked. You're not an idiot, Eleanor." Again, his bitter tone caught me off guard and made me a little more angry.

"Of course not. But I wasn't careful as I could have been. I remember hugging Emma and leaving my drink on the bar next to the guy who I'd text you about, you know the one who tried to buy me a drink and-"

"You're not serious, Eleanor?"

"I, er, I told you-"

"Jeez. How could you be so stupid!? I told you. I told you to be fucking careful and you ignore me and look where it got you. In hospital!"

"Pedro, enough! Stop moaning about it. I don't wanna hear it." I pinched my nose as I took a deep breath and tried to control the anger that was burning in my chest.

"Well I didn't want to feel this hopeless and spend the last few hours worrying about my girlfriend because she got spiked and is half way around the world, where I can't look after her. Cos it seems like she can't take care of herself."

"Fuck you, Pedro." I ended the call and threw my phone on the bed. I wanted to cry. I was exhausted. I missed Pedro. I wanted to be with him and have him look after me and hold me. But once again, he'd slipped into the routine of being an asshole anytime something happened to me. My phone buzzed on the bed next to me. When I picked it up, I expected to see some sort of apology message from Pedro. But instead, I got,

Pedro: hanging up on me? Real mature. Hope you feel better soon.

I didn't open it. I just lay my head back down and fell back to sleep.

******************************************The following day, I packed up the remainder of my stuff into my case. I got back from the hospital yesterday afternoon and spent the evening watching films on the sofa with my Dad. Who repeatedly told me I was making the right decision going back to L.A. I couldn't work out how much of it was true or whether he was saying it to make me feel better about leaving again. I hadn't heard from Pedro all day and out of defiance, I didn't contact him either. I was still annoyed with him.

I got changed into a pair of old pyjamas that didn't match, as I packed all my good ones and climbed into bed. I was flying back to L.A tomorrow evening and had suddenly got mixed emotions about it. I was moving back to a guy who had pissed me off and accused me of being stupid enough to get myself spiked and then didn't speak to me for 24 hours after. It seemed so stupid to be annoyed at him because I knew he loved me and was only looking out for me. And I'd seen this cycle many times before whenever something happened to me. Pedro would feel hopeless and lash out. It was never intentional. But the thick layer of annoyance he'd caused the last 24 hours made me so annoyed I couldn't push away the feeling.

I was looking through my camera roll at the pictures and videos I'd took since being home. Realising I'd be leaving them all again tomorrow. For a permanent life in L.A. Yet, I didn't feel as sad this time. It felt, OK. I felt OK. I was excited to go back to L.A and to Pedro. I felt OK that my family and friends would be here and I wouldn't. Because I could come and see them and nothing would change. And they wouldn't forget me. And they'd miss me like I missed them. That they didn't stop loving me because I wasn't home. Being home this time had put everything into perspective for me. I was watching a video of me dancing with Theo that Oli had took a couple Sundays ago at Grandads house when Pedro's name came across the screen. I answered the call.

"Hello?" Pedro's tone was awkward. I knew this man well enough to know he felt guilty for his behaviour and didn't know how to behave with me.

"Hi."

"You still mad at me, huh?"

"Yep." My cold tone sparked a little giggle from Pedro.

"I don't blame you. I would be too."

"What do you want?"

"You're feisty tonight, Eleanor."

"And I was stupid yesterday? You're always full of terms of endearment Pedro."

"You're never stupid, Eleanor."

"That's not what you said yesterday." I picked at the corner of my nail bed, unable to shake off the bitterness of yesterday.

"I know what I said, Eleanor." His tone was cool. But I knew he was annoyed at himself more so than me. "I'm sorry. I'm calling to say sorry."

"Aww you only took 24 hours to apologise. Thank you." The sarcasm rolled off my tongue.

"Don't, Eleanor." Again, I was being scolded by Pedro. I hated it. It made me feel like a little child. "You know what I'm like. I'm an asshole."

"Yeah you are." I interjected, making Pedro laugh.

"I am. I just needed some time. I'm sorry. It just, I mean. Look, we knew this was going to get hard. I knew I'd struggle not seeing you all the time. Not being able to care for you. But knowing you were in a hospital bed hundreds of miles away from me and I couldn't protect you, or look after you. It just. I, it made me mad. Mad at you. Mad at me. Mad at everyone. You know how I get. I felt helpless." There it was. The feeling that always caused this behaviour. Hopelessness. I recalled a conversation with Pedro where he opened up to me about his mother's death and how hopeless that made him feel. And how that was the catalyst of him not ever wanting to get into a relationship because he couldn't deal with feeling like that - till he met me.

"Pedro." I didn't know what else to say. I understood. It was exactly how I felt when he was having his shoulder surgery. Helpless. "It's OK. I'm sorry for being an asshole too."

"You have nothing to be sorry for."

"I miss you so much."

"I miss you too. Which is why I feel even worse about it. Missing you and knowing you were lying helpless when all you wanted was a night out with your friends. It got me so mad. I would have hurt him for you. If I was there."

"Well I'm glad you wasn't. Because you only have one good arm and I don't want you hurting that too." I joked. Being rewarded by Pedro's giggle was the best compliment ever. It was the most joyous sound.

"Do you need money for your hospital bill?" He asked.

"No, free healthcare here babe. I'm all good. Thank you."

"That's so good. I wish free healthcare was available for everyone." His comment was a thought out loud. It never failed to surprise me how caring this man was. He would help anyone and everyone.

"Don't you think you breaking your shoulder and me being spiked, it's like the universe punished us for being away from each other."

"Haha you're so right. Guess we should listen to the universe and try and meet up soon."

"I'll look at dates I could do tomorrow at work and let you know."

"Please do. I feel like I've not been properly happy since you went." My heart. It physically hurt hearing him say those words.

"Don't. That makes me sad."

"Hahaha I'm sorry baby. I shouldn't have said anything!" Tell him. Tell him you're going home to him. Make him feel better.

"Pedro, I need to tell- doesn't matter." I fought against wanting to tell him and tried to keep it in. It would all be worth it to see his reaction when he saw me.

"No tell me. What was you going to say?"

"I was, I was just gonna tell you that I wanted to cut my hair." It wasn't quite a lie, but I panicked.

"That's what you wanted to tell me? Elle, it's your hair babe do whatever you want to it. You know I'll still fancy you."

"Yeah but you love my long hair."

"Yeah but I'll love your shorter hair. I just love you. So you do whatever you wanna do." My Pedro. MY Pedro.

"Ok, well if I go through with it, I'll send you some pictures."

"Please. Always send me pictures of you. They help me get through the day."

"I'm so lucky to have you."

"Not as lucky as me, babe."

"I need to go get some sleep, Pedro. But I'll talk to you tomorrow?"

"Please. Goodnight babe."

"Sweet dreams. Love you."

"Love you more."

As I was putting my putting phone on charge and setting my alarms, Pedro had text me.

Pedro: I hope you know I do love you. I'm sorry again for being an asshole. I can't wait to see you soon. Love you. 💜💜💜

I would reply in the morning. I settled into the sheets, allowing his text message to swirl around in my head. One more sleep, I'll see you tomorrow Pedro.

***************************************I threw my phone onto the hotel bed. It was nice enough for the night. A double bed sat in the middle of the room. It was classy and chic. I'd stayed in better but I certainly stayed in worse hotels. I had tried my best to sleep as much as I could on the plane but I couldn't relax properly and only got a couple of hours. I was tempted to crawl into the bed now and have a Power Nap before meeting Pedro but I was too excited. And because Oscar had told me that he, Pedro and some of their friends would be grabbing lunch at the Italian down near the Boulevard and to text him when I was on my way to go and surprise him. Oscar had helped me coordinate today so I could completely surprise Pedro and I was so thankful for him. He had last text me to say they had just ordered starters so I could take my time. Which I was thankful of, as it meant I had time to change and freshen up to look presentable for Pedro. I changed from my leggings and hoodie to a denim skirt, white T-shirt and knee high boots. I brushed out my hair and applied some tinted moisturiser and mascara, then put some lip liner and lipgloss on. I wanted to be put together for when he saw me. My phone buzzed on the side so I checked to see who it was.

Oscar: starters just came. Want me to order you some lunch? I bet you're hungry and we'd love for you to eat with us!

Me: omg that would be lovely thank you. Won't Pedro question the extra dish?

Oscar: I'll just say I was extra hungry! Or I'll say I need the bathroom and order it on the sly for you :)

Me: you genius! Thanks so much, Oscar! X

Oscar sent me a picture of the menu and I quickly chose the chicken sandwich and fries. I didn't realise how hungry I was until I started reading the menu. Oscar text me to say it was ordered and I could make my way to the restaurant whenever I was ready. I grabbed my phone and bag and headed out. My belly was in knots. I was so nervous.

I walked into the restaurant and instantly saw the back of his curly head at the rear of the room. He facing away from me and I was thankful for his positioning. It gave me a few extra minutes to compose myself.

"Good afternoon, Ma'am. How can I help you?" A pretty blonde woman stood at the front desk and smiled at me.

"Hey. I'm with the table over the back." I smiled as she nodded and gestured for me to go join them. My fingertips shook as I made my way over to him. Even the back of his head made my heart flutter. Those little curls always sent my heart racing. He was really here. In touching distance. I sneaked up behind him and covered his eyes with my shaky hands. A small burst of giggles left his lips as he used his working hand to peel my hand away. He shifted in his seat to face me. When he realised it was me, his face dropped.

"The fuck." He breathed as he looked between his friends and I. "What the fuck?" His eyes darted back to his friends, who were laughing at his shocked expression. I stood at his chair, waiting for him to stand up and hug me. But I couldn't control my laughter. "Did you know?" He asked Oscar who was laughing and recording the whole interaction. Oscar nodded his head and looked at me and smiled. Pedro followed Oscar's eye line and looked back to me, where his eyes glistened as he stared at me. "Eleanor? What the fuck? What are you doing here?" He rose to his feet and scooped me into his arm. He rested his head against mine as his good arm wrapped around me. His fingers squeezed the top of my shoulder, as if he was trying to feel if I was real.

"I came to look after you." I leant my head back to look at him. My eyes scanned over every inch of his face. His eyes looked tired. But he was still as beautiful as the last time I saw him. "Look at you." My heart ached as I saw him in his sling, "I'm gonna have to wrap you up in bubble wrap."

"I'm fine. I can't believe you're here. I can't - how are you? God I've missed you." I was back in his arm and being cuddled. I saw his friends all smile at our interaction. They loved to see him happy. He was so cared for by so many.

"I've missed you too." After a brief introduction to some of the friends I'd never met before and a hello to those I did, Pedro was pulling out his chair for me and offering me to sit down. Even with one arm, he was so gentlemanly and sweet. "Thank you." I smiled at him as he took the seat next to me.

"Order something. Here, here's the menu." He shoved the menu into my hands, "Have you eaten? I bet you're hungry. Please eat."

"Oscar's already ordered for me!" I laughed as I put the menu down and grabbed his good hand in mine. "Look at you. Aww babe, it's breaking my heart seeing you like this." I gingerly touched his arm in the sling. "Does it hurt?"

"Not where you're touching. My shoulder does. I'm so happy you're here. I can't believe it. How long are you here for?"

"I need to speak to you about that." I felt bubbles rise in my throat as I squeezed his hand. "But I'll tell you later when it's just us two if that's OK?"

"Yeah sure. Everything alright?" He looked at me with a puzzled and worried look on his face. His hand squeezed mine.

"Everything is great now I'm back with you. How have you been, minus the injury?"

"Bored. Sad. Hate life without you in it. But you're back now. I'm gonna enjoy my time with you whilst I have you." He brought my hand up to his mouth and kissed my knuckles.

It broke my heart to watch Pedro struggle to eat his food. I noticed he'd gone for ravioli instead of a steak or some other two handed dish he'd usually order. Because it was easy to fork it into his mouth. Watching Pedro interact with his friends brought me joy. How they'd make each other laugh so hard it became a chorus of wheezing and laughter across the table. It made me feel giddy every time he would look at me whilst someone spoke and how he smiled at me. Or how he would listen to a friend's conversation but grab my hand and squeeze it, or kiss my knuckles.

We said our goodbyes to Pedro's friends as I lead the way to my hotel.

"I'm staying just down here." I linked my fingers through his as we strolled down the street.

"You're not staying here. You're coming back with me."

"No honestly, it's fine. I've booked and paid for the room I might as well use it."

"I'd rather you stay with me whilst you're here. I've missed you. And I don't like the idea of you being in a hotel by yourself. I want you with me so I can cuddle you. How long do you have it booked for? I'll reimburse you."

"I'll tell you all about it when we're at the hotel."

"What's going on? Why are you being weird?" Pedro yanked on my arm to stop me mid walk. "Talk to me."

"I will. Just when we're back at the hotel. I need to talk to you. It needs to be a discussion and I don't wanna do it out here." I pulled on his hand and lead him down the short walk to the hotel.

"That's a whole lotta' luggage for a trip, Eleanor. How long are you here for?" He asked as he walked into the hotel room and sat on the love-chair at the corner of the room. I sat on the end of the bed and stared at him. I was nervous. I thought he'd be angry. For me making him help me pack up my life just to come crawling back. For breaking his heart and moving away just to come back a few weeks later. For all the unnecessary stress and upset.

"I wanna, I wanna move back to L.A"

"What?"

"I missed you too much. I couldn't get over it. It never got easier. I started getting used to life without you physically in it and I realised I didn't want to do it. I-I didn't want that to be my life. Everyone at home has someone. Life has changed. They can't drop everything and be twenty something year olds who have the time to socialise and see each other every week. Everyone had their someone. And I didn't have you. So I wanted to come back."

"Eleanor. You really mean that?"

"Yeah. I do. I missed you so much. I missed this little life we're creating for ourselves. I know my family and friends will always be there if I need them. But I need to do life with you. I need to be here with you."

"I am so fucking happy. You're coming back home to me. I can't believe it. I am so fucking happy. And you're sure, right? You're sure you want this? With me?"

"Never been so sure of anything in my life. I feel so happy, seeing you, knowing we're back together. It's made me so happy. Seeing you here, I know I've made the right decision."

"Fuck. I feel like I wanna cry!" He stood up and stomped over to me and threw himself on top of me, causing us to fall back onto the bed in a tangle of limbs.

"Pedro!" I screamed, "be careful. Your shoulder! Get up!" I tried my best to wriggle out of his grip and help support him but Pedro just laughed loudly and squeezed me to the bed with his left arm. Luckily, his right was hanging off the bed and not causing any pain in our entanglement.

"Fuck my shoulder. Fuck everything. Nothing matters apart from you coming back to me."

"I need to ask a favour." I leant up on my elbows and looked at him. His face was centimetres from mine. The intimacy caused my belly to flip. It felt too long since I'd been this close to this beautiful man and all the butterflies came rushing back. Not that they ever left.

"Anything for you." Pedro stared me in the eyes. Then looked to my lips and panted. Fuck. My breathing matched his, heavy and hot.

"I don't have anywhere to stay. And whilst I try and find somewhere, I was wondering if I could stay with you?" Pedro's lip came down onto mine; hard and passionate. I cupped his cheeks with my hands and moaned into his mouth as I deepened the kiss. I'd missed this. So much. The way his scratchy facial hair would tickle my face when we kissed. The way he would grip my head like his life depended on it. "Was that a yes?"

"The easiest yes of my life so far. Of course you can. Nothing would make me happier." He gave me his best smile before he threw his head down into the crook of my neck. The weight of his head hit off my skin and hurt slightly. I was going to make a comment till I felt his shoulders rattle.

"Are you OK? Pedro, are you crying?"

"Yeah. But in a good way." He mumbled into my throat. I tenderly stroked the back of his head and giggled as I placed a couple of kisses on his temple.

"You are so cute."

"I'm just so, I can't believe it." He lifted his head to reveal his teary eyes and rosy cheeks. "These last few days have been hard. And I didn't want to tell you because I didn't want you to be upset or have you worry over me. But I've been struggling. I missed you so much it was making me so fucking sad. And then you went out with your friends and you looked so happy and I realised that's why you'd gone back home, you know, to have those moments and memories. So I didn't want to say anything. Then it got worse when I couldn't be there for you the other day, which, by the way are you OK now, right? You're fine?" He hinted at the spiking.

"I'm fine." My thumb stroked his cheek.

"It just made me feel so much worse about everything. I've quickly realised I'm miserable without you. You bring out the best in me. Life is only good when you're with me. And-and so, now you're back. And you're back forever and you're gonna be staying with me and I'll get to see you every day and I get to wake up and fall asleep with you every day, it it just makes me so happy. Thank you for coming back to me."

"I'll always be wherever you are, my Pedro." I gripped his face in mine and kissed him hard.

"Are you going to let me reimburse you for this hotel and you can come back to mine with me tonight?"

"I'm just gonna stay here tonight. Thank you for the offer though." I stroked his curls.

"OK, well I'm staying with you then." He smirked at me.

"What?" I couldn't work out if he was joking or not. The small smirk on his lips implied he was very much serious.

"I'm gonna stay with you."

"You're gonna stay in a hotel 15 minutes from your house? In a bed that will do nothing for your back?"

"Yep. Cos you're here. And I wanna be with you."

"I can't let you do that, Pedro."

"Well I am."

"No, we'll just go back to yours." I smirked at the man who got his own way. Who would always get his own way. Because there wasn't a single thing I wouldn't do for him.

******************************************

I had the weekend with Pedro before I started back permanently in my L.A office on Monday. I had missed the team and was excited to start with them again. Something about settling down here had made me love L.A a little bit more now. This was my home. My future was here, with these people.

"All of your stuff is in here babe." Pedro unlocked the door of his spare room. It was a small room I'd never been in before. There was enough space to fit a bed in there and I idly wondered why he hadn't converted the space into another bedroom. There were pictures leaning against the wall and flat pack boxes that I presumed hadn't been built. Pedro had been using this as storage. "My intentions were to make this another bedroom for friends and family to stay. But then I started putting all my stuff in here and never got round to it." It was as if he read my mind.

"There's so many cool things in here. I can't believe you store your awards in here and don't put them on show in your living room!"

"I dunno, I think it would make me see a bit arrogant to put them on display for anyone to see."

"The only people who come to your house are your friends and family. And we all want to see you do well and show off your accomplishments. So I think you should."

"I never thought about it like that. Thanks babe." He kissed my temple.

"Are you sure you're happy for me to move in for now?"

"Move in permanently. I love having you here."

"I only need somewhere to stay till I find somewhere to live." I hugged him tenderly, careful not to hurt his shoulder.

"The offer is there." He kissed my head tenderly. "Make yourself at home. This is your temporary permanent home for now."

"Thank you honey." Pedro smiled at my choice of pet name for him. "I'll just leave my boxes in here for now and maybe some cases. I can't be bothered to unpack right now. I just wanna spend time with you."

"I've missed you." Pedro used his good hand to cup my face and bring it closer to his. "My baby." He whispered against my lips as he kissed me sweetly. I melted into his touch, letting my lips harmonise with his.

"Making my legs buckle." I mumbled against his lips momentarily, before I deepened the kiss again. Both my hands gripped onto his curls as I moaned into his mouth. "How are we supposed to have sex now you're injured?"

"Oh it's pretty easy. When you were away, this girl found it was easier to let me lie back and -" He started to grin as he tried to trick me.

"There better be no other fucking girl."

"I didn't know when you were coming back and a man has needs, Eleanor." I could tell by the smirk on his face and the way he giggled that he was joking. Not to mention the fact this man loved me wholeheartedly. I knew that. He would never do that to me.

"Ha ha. Not funny."

"Are you jealous?" He teased as he wrapped his arm around my waist and came in for another kiss.

"Yes. I know you're joking but it's pissed me off." I tried to pull away from him but his grip on me was too tight. Even with one arm.

"Aw I'm sorry baby. You know I'm only joking. You forever. If I couldn't have sex with you, I would never have sex again."

"Liar."

"I'm not lying. Me and you, only. That's our thing. We only do it with each other now. You're the only woman I'll ever have sex with again and I'm the only man you'll have!"

"Nah! I might go sleep about!"

"Absolutely no fucking chance! Over my dead body!"

"Not nice, is it?"

"Shhhhh, mine." He mumbled as he kissed me again and this time I didn't resist. I allowed myself to fall into the man as he swept me off my feet with the best kiss I had ever received. "I really wanna have sex with you." He said as he thrust his hips into me. I could feel his erection against me.

"I wanna have sex with you too."

"So what are we waiting for? Let's go to bed." He pulled me by my hand to his bedroom. All I could think about on the short journey to his room was how I was about to have sex with him. The most perfect man in the world. Who loved me. Who loved me. "So the last time she did it, she just made me lie over here like this-"

"Stoppppppp!" I whined as I smacked his good arm.

"Owwww! Watch it. I've only got one good arm left and I need to keep that so I can touch you and feel you up and hold your hand!"

"Stop saying annoying shit then!"

"I'm sorry, I couldn't resist. You're so hot when you're jealous. All pouty and cute. Makes me wanna do something bad to you." He pouted as he stood in front of me again and grabbed my shoulder. "You're so beautiful, Eleanor."

"Just saying that cos you know you've pissed me off."

"I'm saying it cos I mean it. I am so lucky. I love you so much." I tried not to reaction to his intoxicating words, but I couldn't help but beam at him.

"I love you. Even if you're a dickhead."

"A dickhead!" Pedro threw his head back and laughed out loud. The sound of his schoolboy giggles were so precious. "So British, Eleanor!" He tried his best attempt at a British accent; which was awful.

"For an actor, your accents aren't great are they? Cos that was a terrible British accent."

"Haha very funny. Can you stop mocking me and have sex with me now? I need you." He leant forward and grabbed my hand and placed it on his crotch. I could feel him hard and ready for me.

"Looks like you have missed me!" I stepped forward and squeezed him through his jeans. My pressured touch made him moan and close his eyes. "Mine." I whispered against his lips.

"Yours. Always have been, always will be yours." He thrusted his hips into my touch, trying to savour the pleasure.

"Come here." I moved my hand from his erection and directed him over to the bed. "I'm guessing you'll be keeping your T-shirt on? As much as I want you shirtless, I don't want to put you through any pain trying to get this sling off, then your T-shirt off, then put it back on again. So I'll wait."

"You're so sweet, baby." His eyes glistened as he stared at me.

"I'll give you a hand getting these jeans off though." I flicked my hair over my shoulders as I knelt before him. I purposely made a performance of slowly reaching for his button on his jeans as I stared up at him through my lashes.

"Keep looking at me like that and I'll cum now." His hand cupped my cheek as his thumb stroked at my skin.

"Like what?"

"You know exactly what you're doing." He growled as I leant forward and kissed him through his jeans. I popped the button and yanked on the material to reveal his bulge which was framed by the zip of his jeans.

"Oh you mean this?" I leant forward and pushed my face into his erection, allowing my nose to nuzzle him. He groaned out and grabbed my head and held it there for a few seconds before he peeled me away.

"I can't take this. I'm so hard." His thumb moved to my bottom lip. There was a slight pressure to his touch, and I knew he was finding it hard to control himself. "Fuck." I pulled on his jeans so they rested at his ankles before my eager hands found his waistband and yanked them down. I took his dick in my hand and allowed my tongue to run over his tip. I purposely placed pressure on the hole of his tip, knowing it drove him insane. "Fuccccck, Eleanor. Babe, I'm, I can't, fuck." His nails scratched my scalp as he grabbed a fist full of my hair. He gently guided me over the length of him, which never got easier. Once he hit the back of my throat, it always felt like all the air in my body instantly evaporated and I struggled to breathe. "You OK?" He asked as we found a steady rhythm. He must have felt me struggling.

"Yeah," I tried to gain my breath, "I'll always choose your dick over oxygen anyway." I smiled sweetly before I put him back in my mouth and picked up the pace.

"Fuck me. That's so hot." I felt his hips jolt as he eagerly absorbed each stroke of my mouth against him. "I can't, babe, I'm gonna cum soon. It's been too long and this is driving me insane!"

"So? Cum in my mouth!"

"I wanna be in you. I love being in you." He pulled my head away from him and I felt a twang of disappointment as I was left without him. He helped me to my feet and said, "such a beautiful girl with a dirty mouth." He leant forward and took my bottom lip between his teeth and sucked. It made me moan and roll my hips.

"Lie on the bed, Pedro." My tone was a little more forceful than I intended but I was so desperate for him. He devilishly smirked as he did was he was told, loving my dominant tone. "Lie in the middle, that's it. Now let me put this pillow under your shoulder. Is that comfortable?"

"Perfect babe." He lay back and watched me quickly get undressed till I was in my thong and bra. "Goddess." He adjusted himself before he spat on his hand and started to play with himself. I was mesmerised watching him watch me. Knowing I was the reason he wanted to pleasure himself. "Hmm. Turn around and slowly take your thong off. Open your legs and bend right over when you do it." Even with one arm and no physical contact, he had complete control over me. I did what I was told and was rewarded with a guttural moan from Pedro. "Now get on top of me and take your bra off." Again, I did what I was told. He moved his hand from his dick so I could sit on top of him. "Hmmm so wet, babe." He squeezed my thigh in a way I knew would bruise in the morning. I quickly unclasped my bra and threw it on the ground. Pedro's hand instantly went to my breast and squeezed. "Mine. All mine. My perfect girl." Wanting to not waste a second longer, I positioned him between me and allowed myself to slide down his full length. We both harmonised our moaning, feeling each other connect in a physical way we'd both clearly missed. I continued to roll my hips up and down, feeling Pedro meet me in the middle with his hip thrusts into me. Each one strong and powerful. Just like the man himself. I was convinced this was what heaven felt like. "Babe, I'm gonna cum soon. I'm sorry." He breathed as he gripped my waist.

"Don't be. It's OK. I want you to cum deep in my pussy."

"Fuck, hearing you talk dirty like that is making me go crazy! More... please."

"Can I put my hands here?" I asked as I gingerly touched his sides, not wanting to hurt him.

"Put them everywhere the fuck you want, baby. I don't care anymore. This feels sooooo fucking good."

"Keep pounding my pussy, Daddy. I want you to cum deep in me." I whispered against his lips as I licked his moustache.

"Fuckkkk!" He came. Hard. Loud. Aggressively. It was so hot seeing Pedro come undone underneath me. In me. Knowing I got this side of him that no other woman would ever have again. I hoped no one made him feel like this before. Thoughts of previous comments where he told me he never found sex the most enjoyable with other women sprang to mind and heightened my pleasure. I continued to roll my hips whilst he rode out his orgasm till his hand on my waist stopped me. "That was the best orgasm I've ever had."

"I'm glad." I kissed his lips softly.

"Sit on my face."

"What?" His remark caught me off guard and made me look at him in the eyes.

"I said sit on my face. I've had my orgasm, let me give you yours."

"It's OK don't worry, I just wanted to-"

"Eleanor. Please sit on my face. Please." He begged. I tried to recall a moment in my life where 5 words made me want to explode in the way those 5 words from Pedro's mouth did. I helped him move down the bed, and readjusted his pillow before I positioned myself over his face. "Good girl." Was all Pedro said before his mouth was at the centre of me. His hand gripped my thighs as his tongue tasted every inch of me. I grabbed fistfuls of his hair as I slowly rocked my hips. The movement causing Pedro to moaned into the most intimate area of me. I'd always loved his nose. I found it so attractive. But feeling it against me in the most intimate way drove me crazy and I idly wondered if I'd ever be able to look at it in the same way. Pedro's tortuous tongue kept working away till I came for him. The post orgasmic bliss wore off all too quickly and I felt immensely shy as I climbed from on top of him. "That was the best moment of my life."

"What?" I felt my cheeks blush at his words and I settled down on the bed next to him.

"That was the best moment of my life."

"Me riding your face?"

"Yep. Fuck, so good."

"What about all the success you've had? The parts you've been cast for, the awards you've been-"

"Having you ride my face has been the best thing to ever happen to me. I wanna do it all day every day." Hearing him make that comment made my eyes drift towards his nose. Remembering how it felt when it was at the core of me just moments ago. It made me squeeze my legs together. "You are so perfect."

"So are you. Shall we eat? I'm starving." I was first to get up off the bed. Pedro being a limb down, struggled to sit up by himself. So I helped him up then proceeded to help him step into some pyjama pants.

"Thanks for looking after me babe." He smiled as he adjusted the waistband on his trousers.

"You're welcome. How did you cope whilst I was away?" I got dressed into a T-shirt from Pedro's wardrobe and some of his boxers.

"I told you, I had this girl around and she-"

"Pedro stoppppppp!" I groaned as I stomped past him. I felt him reach for my waist and pull me into him.

"I'm just joking, I'll stop. I've struggled. But I've got by. Now I've got you and everything is OK."

"You'll always be OK whilst you have me. I'll take care of you."

"And I'll take care of you. What shall we get for dinner, I'm thinking Thai."

********************************

I placed Pedro's Thai Red Curry with noodles in front of him and sat next to him at the kitchen top.

"Can you drink wine? You're on pain medicine right?" I asked as I poured white wine into my glass.

"No, I only have to take those if it gets too much. I try not to take them if I can help it." He said as he slid his glass towards me, silently asking for some. "Thank you." I watched Pedro pick up his fork and attempt to scoop some noodles into his mouth. First the chicken fell off, then one single noodle which then took down the rest of them attached to the fork. He scooped some food up again but the same thing happened.

"I told you to get rice!" I said, watching him struggle. "Do you want mine?" I offered my Katsu Curry and rice.

"No I want this." He sighed like a stroppy child.

"Let me help." I leant over and grabbed his plate. With my knife and his fork, I hacked at the noodles to break them down into smaller chunks and easier mouthfuls. "How did you even feed yourself when I wasn't here?"

"Basically lived of pizza."

"How long have you got to be in the sling for?"

"Another two weeks. Then I have a review."

"Must have been a bad break!"

"I broke the bone completely in half and cracked another part of it." He was watching me simplify his food with a twinkle in his eye. I couldn't work out if it was because he appreciated what I was doing or if he was looking lovingly at his food, and was excited to eat it.

"Fucking hell, babe. From falling down the stairs?"

"Yeah. I slipped. Had these new socks on and my Dad has wood flooring and he did warn me and I didn't fucking listen. Top to bottom. Fucking hurt."

"I'm sure it did. I'm so grateful you didn't hurt yourself more seriously. That was a proper bad accident."

"I'm all good. Thank you for this." He smiled sweetly at me as he scooped some of his cut noodles onto his fork and into his mouth. "Hmmm that's better."

"Maybe use a spoon?" I got off my stool and headed to grab him one. I placed it down next to him and sat on my chair.

"Can you eat please? Your food is gonna get cold."

"Yes Dad." I rolled my eyes at him and tucked into my delicious food.

After dinner, we watched TV for a little while whilst our food settled. After a bit, my attention span had run out and I got up from the sofa to clean the kitchen. Pedro had joined me in the kitchen and we spent some time sitting at the counter top, looking at apartments on my laptop.

"No, I don't like that one either. It's shaped weird and the windows are so small. There's gonna be hardly any natural light." I clicked off it. If truth be told, I'd been searching for L.A apartments just before I moved back and so far, I had no luck. Which made my heart sink. I missed my old place. I'd gotten so lucky with that apartment and I was quickly realising that L.A apartments within my budget were not somewhere I wanted to live.

"Yeah, you're right. It's not that great." Pedro added. I got up off the stool to grab us the half drunk bottle of wine from earlier to top up our glasses. "This is a nice apartment. Not as nice as your old one, but you would make it nice. It's $100 over your budget though, but I could help you with that?" Pedro signalled for me to go over and look at the place he had open on the laptop. I walked over to him and tenderly put my arms over his shoulders.

"Yeah, that's nice. Is it available to view?" I sipped my wine.

"Yeah it is. We can go and view it if you'd like?" He turned to look at me. "But honestly, I think it would be so much easier if you just stayed here with me. I like having you here and you'll be settled here and-"

"Let's keep looking for now. If we can't find anywhere, I'll consider this offer." I kissed his curly head.

"You know, if you ever need anything, you can always ask me, right?" Pedro swivelled in his chair to stare at me. I felt my heart clench at his words. It never failed to amaze me that this perfect man existed; and he wanted to spend his life looking after me.

"You are so sweet. I love you so much." I walked over to him and kissed him as best as I could.

"I'm being serious. I hope you know that. If you need anything, tell me. No matter how big or small. I've got you."

"Thank you for the offer." I kissed him again as I sat next to him. We idly looked through more apartments over small talk.

"Has work sorted your visa?"

"Yeah they've renewed it. You guys don't make it easy. I spent about 2 days doing the paperwork."

"I honestly can't remember I was a child when I came over."

"I mean, if you just put a ring on me it would make all the paperwork go away." I teased as I sipped my wine and gave him a side eye.

"Hmmm, I don't think I need to put a ring on you. You're not going anywhere."

"Do you want to get married?" I asked, recalling him telling Oscar he would marry me before I left for England.

"I'm not sure. I mean, if I was going to get married it would obviously be to you. And I'd love you to be my wife. But marriage doesn't appeal to me. I don't need to marry you to know I wanna spend the rest of my life with you." He took a sip of his wine as his eyes scanned me, waiting for my reaction. "What about you? Do you wanna get married?"

"Is that a question or a proposal?" I teased.

"A question, Eleanor." His hand found my thigh and gently squeezed it.

"Urm I'm not sure. Maybe. It would be nice to get married but I've not thought about it much." I lied. I wanted to marry him. I wanted to be his wife one day. But I didn't want to bring up that conversation right now. It was too early in our relationship and I was happy with how things were. My gut was telling me he'd cause an argument if I made a comment against his ideas of not wanting to get married so I kept silent. Ignoring the feelings that this could be a problem for us one day. "I guess I'll have to find another man to marry me then so I don't have to keep applying for immigrant visas."

"No chance. Enjoy filling out that application, baby." He kissed me hard. Tasting of Pedro and red wine.

********************************

"It feels weird being back." I said as I climbed into my side of Pedro's bed later that night. As I pulled back the duvet, I noticed a piece of grey clothing peeking out from his pillows. It looked like a hoodie sleeve. My heart started thumping in my chest. Whose hoodie was it and what was their clothing doing in his bed!? "Pedro's what's this?" I toyed with the clothing, wanting to pull it out and reveal what it was but I was too scared. Too scared to see something that it didn't belong to me. That may have belonged to another woman.

"Oh shit." Pedro seemed embarrassed as he noticed me find the hidden clothing. "I hope you're not freaked out."

"Freaked out about what? What's going on, Pedro?" My tone was hot and snappy. I saw him start to giggle.

"Don't worry, it's not what it looks like babe." He laughed as he sat down on his side of the bed. "Look." He pulled out the hoodie. It was a Harry Styles Love on Tour hoodie. My hoodie. "It's yours. I don't want you to be freaked out. But the other day, when I told you I'd be struggling with you being away, I got it from your stuff and slept with it. Cos it smelt like you."

"Why would I freak out about that?" Relief flooded every inch of my body.

"Cos it's a bit weird, isn't it?"

"Absolutely not. Why do you think I steal all your clothes? Because they smell like you! You're so cute." I wanted to jump on him, but had to be fragile with him. Even with his arm out his sling, he kept it bent and at his chest. "Do you want me to sleep on this side, so I don't catch your arm in the night?" I asked, aware that his bad arm was on my left side.

"This side is closer to the door, though."

"And?"

"What if someone breaks in?"

"With one arm, I'm not sure you'll be very good at defending us anyway." I giggled childishly.

"Never underestimate what I could do to protect you, Eleanor." He leant forward and kissed my brow. "It might work out better if I lie on that side, cos I can cuddle you with my left arm then."

"OK honey. Get into bed." I ordered, climbing out of my side and allowing him to occupy the space I just had. Once he lay down, I grabbed a pillow from my side and put it under his shoulder to keep it supported. It was the first time I'd seen his injury and it made my heart hurt. There was red swelling around a thick scar line across his shoulder bone. It looked painful. "Oh babe, I don't like seeing you hurt."

"It's fine. It'll get better soon. Doesn't hurt as much as it used to." I gently kissed the skin around the wound and got up to make my way to his side of the bed. As soon as I climbed into the sheets, Pedro instantly grabbed my hand and pulled me over to him. "It's so crazy to me that when I woke up this morning, alone in this bed, I wished more than anything you'd be here. And now you really are. I'm so happy you're back."

"I'm happy to be back with you. I'll look after you." I kissed his exposed chest. "I'll always look after you. I love you. Sweet dreams."

"I love you, my darlin." He mumbled before he drifted into a deep sleep.

**********************************

"Hmmm. I've missed this." Pedro moaned as I rolled over and cuddled into his body. I'd had a fairly decent nights sleep. I woke up a few times because of jet lag. And twice because of Pedro; once was when he tried to roll over and cuddle me and hurt his shoulder. The other was when he turned over in his sleep and jumped awake in pain of putting pressure on his shoulder.

"Me too." I kissed his clammy chest. "Gimme a second and I'll go make you breakfast."

"We can make it together." He kissed the top of my head. "I know I keep saying it but I am so happy you're back."

"I'm happy to be back with you."

"Let's spend the whole day together. I do have to go into a meeting tomorrow morning, but we can do something on the evening if you'd like? Are you back at work Monday?"

"That sounds perfect. Yeah, first day back is Monday. Back into the new role. I'm nervous."

"You're gonna be great."

"Hmmm we will see." I knew I could do my job well. But the pressure of overseeing a small team made me nervous. I didn't feel like I was a natural leader and hated the thought of having any sort of responsibility or authority over anyone. I leant up on my arm and placed a kiss on Pedro's lips. I felt him smile as I continued to bash his onto mine.

"Come 'ere!" Pedro mumbled against my lips as he deepened the kiss. His hand found the back of my neck and held me to him and I climbed on top of him. We both mumbled as I sat atop his crotch.

"I forgot to ask yesterday. Are you growing your hair?" I asked as I broke away to look at the beautiful man who lay underneath me. His curls were more prominent, and well, more curly.

"Yeah. I've got a couple jobs coming up that require me to have longer hair." He smiled up at me as my fingers twisted in his hair.

"I love it. It looks so good. These curls. Please don't ever get rid of them."

"You like 'em?"

"They make me weak." My comment made him belly laugh; my favourite sound.

"I'll keep them for you." He smiled as he pulled me back in to kiss him. Our lips battled for dominance whilst our hands stole touches.

"As much as I want to have sex with you, we need to go and eat. I keep hearing your stomach grumble." I kissed him once and begrudgingly climbed off him. I helped him to his feet and get dressed. After a short fight with his sling, we'd managed to work together to put it on.

"Thank you for looking after me." Pedro said as he readjusted his sling to a more comfortable position on his shoulder.

"Always, babe. That's what I'm here for." I moved over to grab my luggage. "Shit, where did I put them?" I mumbled to myself as I scrambled through my carry on bag. "I'm sure they're in here."

"What are you looking for?"

"My pills."

"Which ones?" He asked as he rubbed at his chest.

"My birth control. I swear I put them in here." I started pulling everything out the bag.

"Are they in your case?"

"No; I kept them in here because I had to take them on the plane." I kept shifting through my stuff, opening small pockets and cosmetic bags to see if I'd misplaced them. "Fuck."

"Did you take them yesterday?"

"No." I mumbled to myself, getting increasingly annoyed when I unloaded more things and they didn't appear.

"When was the last time you took them?"

"Just before I got on the plane."

"That was almost two days ago, Eleanor."

"Yes I'm aware Pedro." Recalling the overnight flight that seemed to go on forever, as I was too eager to get back to Pedro. "They're not in here."

"You've not taken them for two days and we had sex last night."

"Yes?" I snapped.

"I'm sorry, are you not as bothered as me?"

"What do you mean?" I huffed, finally looking up at him. He stood staring at me with a stern look on his face. He was pissed off at me.

"What do you think I mean, Eleanor?"

"Pedro, I doubt I'll be pregnant from not taking them for a few days and one round of sex."

"You don't know that Eleanor. We need to get you the morning after pill. Get dressed. After breakfast, we're going to stop by the pharmacy."

"You can't be serious."

"Oh I'm so serious."

"What is wrong with you?" I groaned as I moved away from the kitchen counter.

"Nothing is wrong with me. I just don't want you to get pregnant."

"I don't want to be pregnant either."

"So we'll go get you that tablet. And maybe you can learn a lesson from this and not be so stupid to lose them. We'll get you a prescription whilst we're there and you'll keep them in the bathroom."

"Pedro!"

"Can't believe this, Eleanor!" He raised his voice as he moved over to the sink.

"What if I don't want to?"

"I'm sorry, what?"

"What if I don't want to take the morning after pill?"

"I'm not sure why you're saying that?"

"Because I don't want to keep pumping my body full of drugs. I didn't do this on purpose. When I stopped taking the pill last time, it messed my body up for a week. I've never taken the morning after pill, what if that makes me feel ill? It's so shit I have to be the one to put my body through this. And I don't even want kids." I shouted at him. He flinched at my words, realising the truth.

"Shit, I didn't even - I'm sorry. I didn't think. I just I -"

"I get it Pedro. I know you didn't mean it. But it's just shitty I have to do this. So I don't need to be shouted at for a mistake I made because I don't want to put my body through this either. I don't want to have to go through what I did last time I started them."

"I'm sorry, Eleanor. I didn't even think I just got scared and I-"

"It's fine Pedro. I'm just gonna have to do it. We'll go into the city after breakfast." I huffed as I moved past him and went to the fridge. I wasn't particularly mad at Pedro, I just felt angry. At myself for losing them. At the world for making women go through periods and putting their bodies through imbalances just to not have children. "There's barely anything in here, Pedro."

"I told you, I've been having to eat out a lot. I couldn't really cook for myself." I saw him look sheepishly at the floor and knew our heated exchange just now was eating away at him.

"We will have to go food shopping soon then." I replied as I grabbed some cheese and eggs and the last of the bacon. "I'll make breakfast. Then I'll run to the pharmacy."

"It's OK, Eleanor. You know your body and if you don't want to take pills I'm not gonna force you."

"I'll go get a prescription of pills. It'll be fine. Now sit. I'll make breakfast."

*********************************Pedro and I were sat in his spare room, unpacking boxes of my stuff. It was late afternoon. I'd got my tablet this morning from the chemist and had to make an appointment to see a doctor next week regarding my contraceptive. We spent the rest of the late morning watching TV. Till I had a surge of energy and wanted to start unpacking my things ready for the week ahead.

"I was thinking-" Pedro pulled out another one of my books.

"Did it hurt?" I joked as unraveled a candle from one of the boxes I had from my old apartment.

"Ha ha!" He teased as he shot me a playful look. "I was thinking we could turn this room into an office for you? You mentioned earlier that you'd have more flexibility to work from home with this new role. This would be perfect for you. There's a nice view out the window. We can get you a desk and some shelves and maybe you can keep your books in here and have it as a reading room too? You know, you could make it really nice. However you want to decorate it."

"Pedro!" My hand clutched my chest as I listened to the sweetest man on earth offering to give up his space for me. "Are you sure?"

"Absolutely. I just use it for my junk. So it'll work perfectly to have to sort all this shit out. Maybe tomorrow, when I'm at work, you can go to IKEA and get some stuff? Then we can decorate it next weekend together?"

"That would be so perfect. Thank you, Pedro. Really. Thank you." I leant over and placed a kiss on his lips. His whole face lit up as I pulled away and stared at him.

"Anything for you." He replied as my thumb stroked his cheek. He really would do anything for me.

"Thank you. I love you." I kissed his lips once more before we continued to empty the boxes. I heard his stomach rumble again. "Are you hungry?"

"Yeah. Are you?"

"A little but I can eat if you want to?"

"I've not got a lot in." We never did make it food shopping this afternoon.

"That's fine. I can make something with what you have. Come on." I got up and extended my hand to held him to his feet. Once in front of me, his took his forefinger and thumb and stroked my chin in a way that made me close my eyes and swoon. "Romantic bastard." I batted his arm playfully and headed towards the kitchen. I needed to get away from him before the urgency to jump on him became too much. He needed to eat.

As I was plating up our dinner, I saw how little food we had to eat. Pedro had barely anything in and this was the best I could do with the foods he had in. I decided to give him most of it, knowing he was hungry and needed it more than I did.

"Here you go, sorry it's not a lot." I placed his plate down in front of him.

"That's perfect, thanks baby. Smells delicious. Wait-" He paused when he saw my smaller portion. "That's all you're having?"

"Yeah you said you're hungry and there wasn't much food."

"That's not ok, Eleanor. Have some of this."

"No, please it's fine."

"Babe that's not OK. No. Let's go out to eat."

"It's fine-"

"Let's go out. We can make it a date. You wanna go on a date with me?" He reached over and grabbed my arm. His thumb stroked at my skin as he waited for my reply. My heart thumped in my chest hearing him ask me to go on a date with him. I was so lucky.

"I'd love to go on a date with you."

"We can go anywhere you like. We could go fancy? Get dressed up?"

"That really nice Italian we went to before?"

"If that's what you want; let's go."

****************************************

I couldn't stop staring at the photo I'd taken just now on my Instagram story of Pedro. His gorgeous brown eyes. The fluffy dark hair. That beautiful face. He was perfect.

"I don't suppose you know any hairdressers that could sort me out next weekend, do you?" I asked Pedro as I locked my phone and played with the ends of my hair. The restaurant was busy, but not overly. We sensed the waiter knew who Pedro was when he sat us in a booth table in the corner of the restaurant. Pedro told me he would tip the waiter extra for giving us some privacy.

"I could ask around. My hairdresser wouldn't be any good to you, she specialises in male hair. Unless that's the look you wanna go for?" He joked as he sipped his beer.

"I'll leave the shorter curls to you, my love." I giggled at his foolishness. "I think I wanna go shorter. And I need it toning. The sun has made the ends so light." I peeled my eyes away from Pedro to look at my hair. I couldn't remember the last time I had it done.

"I think it looks pretty." Pedro said nonchalantly as he shrugged his shoulders and sipped his beer again. His comment made my lips curl and heart explode. "What? I'm being serious. You are so pretty."

"Pedro." I clutched at my chest to try and steady my beating heart. This man, I was convinced, was going to be my cause of death. "I love you."

"I love you." He grinned at me as the waiter put our food down. "Thank you so much."

"Thank you so much." We spoke in unison, making the waiter and ourselves laugh. "We've been around each other too much."

"I know, poor me. Can't get rid of you." He smirked as he picked up his fork.

"Shut up." I laughed as I tucked into my food. We continued to make small talk over dinner when my phone buzzed on the table next to me. The screen lit up and Olivia's name flashed on the screen. I picked it up to try and read the preview. Whenever me and Pedro had date nights, we tried to keep off our phones as much as possible. Only to reply to urgent messages and take pictures of each other. But her message got my curiosity.

Olivia: I saw this on Instagram earlier and I'm not sure if you've already saw it but I....

The preview cut off before I got to the good part. So I clicked on the message.

Olivia: I saw this on Instagram earlier and I'm not sure if you've already saw it but I actually cried. This man 🥹😮‍💨😳❤️ I'm so glad he treats you the way you deserve x

She attached an edit of a fan account. It was a picture of me and Pedro from his red carpet event a few months ago, looking at each other and laughing. With our hands covering his anxiety spot. There was a quote edited underneath the photo.

"'She loves me on purpose. She wakes up every day and chooses to love me. With my family; it was built in. It's blood. But she chose to love me on purpose. Unconditionally. I'll never take that for granted.' - Pedro talking about Eleanor in Variety Magazine Feb 2024. Link in my bio for the full interview. I'm sobbing you guys. 🥹❤️‍🩹'

Reading those words made my heart hurt. It made me want to violently sob. It made me want to jump across the table and crawl into his lap and hold him close to me forever.

"Everything alright?" Pedro had noticed I'd been glued to my phone for a couple of minutes. I looked up at him through my glossy eyes.

"Did you actually say this about me?" I held the phone up to his face. He repositioned my hand, allowing for his eyesight to adjust to the screen in an old man way that made me giggle. He read the words and smiled to himself before he let go of my hand.

"That's really cute. I like how they've made that."

"Pedro, did you actually say that about me?"

"Yeah why?"

"That might be the nicest thing anyone has ever said about me. I can't believe you'd say that."

"I've said loads of nicer things about you." He tore off a piece of garlic bread and popped it into his mouth.

"Like what? That literally is the sweetest thing you've said."

"I said you have amazing boobs."

"Pedro-"

"I said I wouldn't have sex ever again if it wasn't with you. That's pretty romantic."

"Pedro stop-"

"I said you sitting on my face was the best thing that ever happened to me."

"I hope you included that quote in the full interview."

"That's just our x-rated version that stays between me and you." He winked at me. I was floored. That man made me feral.

"I'd love to read the full x-rated version."

"It's a shame that you're off limits for the next week. I would have recited it to you tonight. With actions, if you were lucky." The way he licked his lips after his swallowed was intentional. This man knew what he was doing. "Seriously though. I do love you. And I feel very lucky that you love me." He grabbed my hand from across the table and kissed my knuckles. "Now eat, please."

*************************************************

I woke up to an empty bed and a couple of texts. One from Pedro wishing me a good morning and telling me he had to leave early and he would be back late afternoon. And one from Olivia.

Olivia: you know what's so crazy to me? Me and Jack are watching Game of Thrones again and we're on Pedro's season and that's your boyfriend. The man on my screen, is your fucking boyfriend. And you get to do all cute relationship shit with him. Because he's your boyfriend. 🤯

I quickly typed out a reply to Olivia, telling her it was as equally as crazy to me; even though I'd never seen GoT, that Pedro was my boyfriend. I decided to grab a drink and do yoga in the living room. I'd uploaded a story to my Instagram for my fitness highlight and set about starting my workout.

Post workout, I checked my phone and saw Pedro had text me,

Pedro: saw your story. Can't believe I missed you rolling around in all sorts of positions in my living room. From now on, I won't be attending any work meetings before 10am. X

Me: I'm more than happy to show you what I've learnt in yoga later tonight if you're well behaved. What do you want for dinner tonight? X

Pedro: you 😛😉 xxxxxx

His childish response made me giggle, but also made my stomach flip. The idea, though foolish, of Pedro wanted to eat me would always cause a fire to ignite in me.

Me: maybe for dessert. 😉 What do you want to eat? Let me know and I'll have it waiting for you when you get home! Xxxx

Me: what time can I expect you home by the way?

It felt weird to type out, 'home' as somewhere we shared together. I was so used to asking him what time he would be coming round, or what time I should head to his. But now he was coming home, to our space. It felt good. It gave me butterflies. He didn't text back straight away so I figured work had called. So I decided to get showered, clean the apartment and head to Target later.

************************************

I picked up a blender and looked at its features. Pedro didn't have one at home and I loved making juices. The idea of getting one and being able to make us delicious healthy drinks every month over breakfast was enough to make me put it in the basket. I started to slowly make my way over the check outs and decided to run the bill past Pedro. From a brief calculation, the items in the cart would be close to $200 and he was paying, which made me feel awkward. I had messaged him and he didn't reply. I hadn't heard from him for about 2 hours. So I text him again.

Me: hey, sorry i just need to know if you're OK with the bill? I think it's gonna be around $200 so I just wanted to check that's OK with you? If not, I could put some things back? Or I'm happy to split the bill with you X

Still no reply. And I was almost in the queue. My heartbeat quickened. I thought I'd try to call him. I clicked on his name and brought the phone to my ear. The call rang a fair few times and I thought he wasn't going to answer but Pedro did.

"Hey. Sorry to spam you, I just-"

"What do you want, Eleanor?" His sharp tone caught me off guard.

"I just wanted to know if it was OK to buy these things-"

"I already told you it was."

"I know but it's a bit pricey so wanted to double check with you that you're happy."

"I don't care how much it costs. If you like it, get it. It's that simple. I've gotta go." He hung up the call. His sharp, shouty tone made me feel like a child being told off by their parents. I stood in the middle of the aisle as my bottom lip wobbled. I decided I wasn't going to get anything, out of spite. I spent a couple of minutes placing all the items in my trolley back on the shelves and headed home.

I sipped my wine and flicked through the channels. I settled on some crime documentary and placed the throw from the back of the sofa over my legs to keep me warm. Then I heard Pedro's keys in the door. I didn't look at him as he entered; because I was still mad at him. I heard the door shut then his keys on the countertop.

"Hey babe." Pedro's tone was light and apologetic and I instantly knew he felt bad for our earlier interaction.

"Hey." I replied but didn't look at him. I could feel him weave through the room and sensed he was behind me.

"Mad at me?" His voice boomed above my head and I knew he was standing behind me, leaning over me.

"A little."

"I was an asshole, wasn't I?"

"Yep."

"You not gonna look at me, Eleanor?"

"I'm watching the TV, Pedro."

"The TV is more important than me?"

"Right now, yeah."

"Eleanor?"

"What?"

"Look at me."

"What?" I snapped as I shifted to face him. He stood there with a pout on his lips and a huge bouquet of flowers in his hands. I instantly felt guilty for being mad at him.

"Flowers are a shitty way of saying I'm sorry but I wanted to get them you anyway."

"You're an idiot." I tried my best to stifle my smile as I turned to kneel and face him. "Thank you."

"I am sorry. I shouldn't have snapped at you. I was in a read through and you kept trying to call and everyone was looking at me and I got anxious. I shouldn't have taken it out on you."

"I'm sorry I didn't know. I wouldn't have called otherwise."

"You wasn't to know. But it's fine. I am sorry." He leant forward and pouted his lips, testing to see if I'd forgiven him and return his kiss. Which, of course, I did. "Am I forgiven?"

"Yeah." I kissed him again and took the flowers off him. I turned in my seat and observed the beautiful bouquet as Pedro joined me on the sofa.

"You gonna show me what you brought?" He asked as he placed his hand on my thigh. It never stopped breaking my heart seeing Pedro in his sling.

"I didn't buy anything. I put it all back because I didn't feel like I should have gotten anything."

"You serious?" He jolted his head back.

"Yeah." I watched as he licked his lips, sighed and threw his head back against the sofa.

"God I'm an asshole."

"It's fine. Don't feel bad it's OK." I ran my hand over his curls. He turned his head and leant into my touch.

"I'm sorry for making you feel that way. But, for the record, please don't ask. If you have my card and want to buy something, just buy it. Please."

"I don't like to. It makes me feel bad."

"Eleanor, we're starting a life together. What's mine is yours and what's yours is yours." We giggled in unison at his silly words. "I'd give you every penny I have. So please don't feel bad."

"What if I wanted to buy a new car? Like your Audi?" I joked as I started to play with his curls.

"OK, maybe consult me first if you feel like you need a new car." He smiled sweetly at me. "I finish tomorrow at lunch time. Shall I meet you from work and we can go house shopping together?"

"I'd love that."

"Okay baby. Have you eaten?" His eyes were soft as he smiled at me. I could feel my heart beat furiously in my chest as I watched him look at me. The way he looked at me, with such love and care always made me overwhelmed.

"Yeah I made lasagna. There's some in the oven for you. I didn't know what time you were coming back. I'll warm it up now for you."

"I can do it, you rest."

"I'll do it." We fought as we stood up in unison to make our way over to the kitchen. I proceeded to make Pedro's dinner whilst he sat at the kitchen counter and watched me. "You excited to go back to work?"

"Yeah. And a little nervous. But in a good way. I'm excited to see everyone. And excited to get back into a routine. I'm more excited to go to IKEA with you after work though."

"I hate those kinda places. It drives me mad!" Pedro said as he rubbed at his eye. Watching him so innocently wipe at his eye made a wave of adoration for him flow through my body.

"I promise it'll be fun. How was your read through?" I asked as I started platting his food.

"It was good. It's always exciting on the first read through. You get a sense of what everyone is gonna bring to the production. It went really well actually."

"Am I allowed to know what for?"

"Yeah it's for Fantastic Four."

"Oh yeah I saw that on your Instagram." I shifted his plate in front of him. "What role are you?"

"Mr Fantastic. I'll bet you don't know who he is or have ever watched any Marvel film." He asked as he used his fork to break off a chunk of food. "Actually," I innocently smiled at him, as I leant against the kitchen counter, "I've seen X-Men Apocalypse."

"Not through your own choice, I imagine? Maybe on a date or some shit."

"Nope. I went with Olivia to the cinemas to watch it because I went through a period of being in love with Evan Peters."

"What?" Pedro raised his eyebrow at me as he forked more food into his mouth.

"Yeah I went through a phrase of loving Evan Peters. I mean, I still do. But I'd just gotten into American Horror Story and thought he was ridiculously hot. Couldn't get enough of him."

"But I introduced you to him at the after party a couple months ago." He seemed confused.

"Yes? And? What did you think I was gonna do? I kept all my fangirling internal."

"No, I meant more along the lines of you wanting to run away with him." I laughed at Pedro's ridiculous words.

"I mean, I'd have loved that. But he clearly wasn't interested."

"I wouldn't say clearly wasn't interested. He knows you're my girlfriend." Magic words. "So it's not like he could have made the move on you. If you were single, he would have."

"He probably wouldn't." I shook my head at Pedro's words. He always thought more of me than reality. "But anyway, he's the reason I watched a marvel film."

"So you watched X-Men because of Evan Peters but you haven't watched The Mandalorian to see me?"

"I'm not a Star Wars fan. It bores me I'm sorry."

"But you're a me fan?"

"I'm your number one fan. Besides, I've already got you so I don't need to watch a boring film just to see you."

"Oscar was in that boring film, you know?" Pedro laughed as he chewed expressively.

"Was he? I don't remember him." I panicked, hoping to not insult his best friend.

"Yep. Played Apocalypse. He was dressed in prosthetics so that's probably why."

"To be honest I don't even remember any of the storyline. Like I said, I find that kinda stuff boring. So you don't need to be jealous. And to make it up to you, I'll come see you in Fantastic Four." I moved over to him and kissed his curly hair.

"I bet you won't."

"Who else is in it?"

"Joseph Quinn-"

"Oh my god I love him. He's so beautiful. He has such beautiful eyes-"

"Yeah. I guess I'm not inviting you to the premiere then." He smirked as he popped the fork into his mouth. "This is delicious, thank you."

"You're welcome. Who else is in it?"

"Vanessa Kirby?"

"I dunno who that is?" My statement made Pedro giggle.

"She plays my girlfriend."

"What? Let me google her." I almost ran to my phone and typed in her name. A stunning blonde with beautiful eyes popped on the screen. "Will you have to kiss her?"

"I guess." He forked another chunk of food into his mouth and grinned at me.

"Please don't fall in love with her."

"I'll try!"

"Pedro!" I groaned as I stomped over to him. "She's literally perfect."

"She's literally happily in a relationship with a guy."

"So? She might leave him for you."

"I doubt that. Because she's in a happy relationship. And I'm in an even happier one." Oh Pedro. "Got me a beautiful wench who cooks delicious food for me and takes care of me. I'm not going anywhere."

"Good," I grabbed his curly head in my arm and kissed his crown. "Love you." I rubbed his shoulder and left him to finish his dinner.

*****************************"Tired?" I asked as I felt Pedro yawn for a third time in the space of a few minutes.

"Yeah, it's been a long day." His hand continued to rub at my scalp as he tickled me. The soft movements from his fingertips were sending me to sleep, too.

"Shall we go to bed?" I asked as I looked up at him. His usually large brown eyes were soft and red. Sleep was etched all over his beautiful face.

"Yeah. I need to shower first. I stink."

"No you don't. You smell nice. Leave your shower till in the morning."

"I'll feel better after a shower, babe."

"Okay. Well you go shower and I'll get ready for bed." We got off the sofa in unison. I had already locked the door earlier but Pedro went over to check it whilst I switched off the TV and readjusted the throw and put it over the sofa. We walked together to the bedroom. It never failed to surprise me how in sync our bodies were.

"I won't be long." Pedro said as he kissed me on the head and left to go into the en-suite. He never locked the door when we were together. So I could hear the shower turning on and Pedro mumbling to himself as he got undressed. Maybe it was the time we spent apart but I was hyper aware of Pedro in the shower. Of the water beating off his skin. Of the idea of him being naked just a few metres away from me. Of the guttural moan he let out when the water hit his skin. But I needed him. I walked over to the doorway and observed him. He had his back to me, facing the water. I allowed myself a moment to watch him. How his left hand would run across the curves of his body. How the muscles in his back would clench with each movement. How the water coated every skin of his skin. I silently slipped out of my clothes and headed towards him. Needed to replace the water as a second skin to Pedro. I slipped in behind him and ran my hands around his torso.

"Fuck!" Pedro jumped, "you scared me." His arms were placed over him, which rested on his tummy. "What you doing?" He looked at me over his shoulder and that's all it took to start my seduction. I placed a kiss on his right shoulder and then another a little lower down. Pedro mumbled a moan as he bowed his head. I continued my kissed across his back as my hands lowered to his dick. He was already semi erect but my touch made him hard within seconds. "Babe."

"Turn around." I breathed against his skin, wanting to see him in all his glory. He repositioned his body so he was facing me. I leant up on my toes and grabbed his head in my hands and kissed him hard. I needed him. Hard and heavy. I ached for him. But I couldn't have him. Because I wasn't on the pill and wouldn't be for at least a week.

"We can't Eleanor." His thumb stroked my cheek tenderly. "I really want to, but we can't risk it."

"We can." I moved my cheek so his thumb fell as my lips. I opened my mouth and took the tip of his thumb into my mouth and sucked hard, whilst continuing to keep eye contact. He looked at me puzzled, but his eyes glowed. He needed me as much as I needed him. "Will you fuck me in my ass?" I asked innocently through my lashes. I watched him swallow hard as he nodded.

"If you're sure, baby." His words were tender but the look he gave was fiery.

"Please. And Pedro?"

"Yes, Eleanor?" His gaze never left mine.

"I want you to be really rough with me, please."

"Eleanor-"

"Please, Pedro." It wasn't an ask. It was a beg.

"Okay baby." He gave me a kiss. It started off tender and soft, but in the only way Pedro could, it became dark and desperate. "Get on your knees." His hand on my shoulder, along with mine on his thighs, guided me to my knees. "Open your mouth." My jaw dropped open with a soft pop. "Good girl." Pedro grabbed himself with his hand and placed his dick at the entrance of my mouth, resting his tip on my bottom lip. "Fuck, you look so beautiful." He bounced his tip off my lip a couple of times before he pushed himself into my mouth. "Make your cheeks hollow. Suck, baby." I did as I was told and was rewarded with a moan from Pedro. He used his hand to guide himself into my mouth a couple of times, slowly. We never broke eye contact. I used my left hand to prize away his hand from his base and put it on my head, signalling for him to hold my head. With both hands, he gripped onto me and helped himself to controlling our pace. I pulled away for a brief second to allow my tongue to push into his tip, before rolling it over his head and down his length. I took turns putting his balls into my mouth, whilst massaging the other one. "Fuck, babe. That's it. Again." I did what I was told, allowing my mouth to cause groans from his mouth. He grabbed my head forcefully and pushed himself into my mouth again. But without warning, he pushed himself to the back of my throat fast and hard. The thrusts weren't gentle and slow like before. It was like a switch had been flipped and this man has become feral. He was throating fucking me and hissing out my name. I reached up and cupped his balls whilst he fucked my mouth, wanting to add to his pleasure. "Ahhhhh!" He threw his head back and allowed the shower water to coat his face. When he looked back down at me, a strand of hair had fallen onto his forehead and made me swoon. "The noises you're making, I'm gonna, it makes me wanna cum." He was referring to the wet noises from my throat as he pushed himself further into me. "On your feet." His hand was out in front of me before I even had chance to think. Even in these intimate moments where I'd asked for dominance, this man had to care for me. When I was on my feet, he leant down as if he was going to kiss me but stopped just in front of my face. He brought his hand up to my neck and squeezed slowly before deciding to kiss me. The combination of his hand squeezing my throat and his mouth on mine took all the air out of my lungs. I was too lost in the feeling of the pain and pleasure Pedro was inflicting on me that I yelped out when his other hand spanked my ass.

"Ughhhh!" I moaned into this mouth. My moans caused something to stir in him as he gripped me harder and spanked me again.

"Say my name."

"Pedro." I mumbled against his lips, not being able to think straight.

"Say my name, Eleanor." His tone was harsh and his voice was louder. "Say it." He hit again; harder.

"Pedro. Pedro, my Pedro." I almost shouted as he forced two of his fingers in me. I held onto his neck, careful not to knock his shoulder. His fingers were relentless as he curled them in me. "Ahhh Pedro!" I screamed when my body started to curl in on itself.

"That's it baby, scream my name." He spanked me again and within a second, pulled his fingers from me and pushed me against the wall. His force was stronger than he intended and my footing wasn't steady. Leading to me hitting my face off the shower tiles with a heavy thump. "Fuck, Eleanor. Are you OK?" Pedro pulled me to him instantly and grabbed my face in his hands. "Fuck I'm so sorry."

"It's okay I'm okay!" I smiled, though my left cheek hurt like hell. I wouldn't let him know because I knew he'd stop and I didn't want him to. "Can you fuck my ass now please?" I begged. He kissed my cheekbone and then me and then turned me around.

"Put your hands on the wall and rest your face on your hands." He commanded. I knew this was to protect me from hitting my face again. So I did what I was told. I arched my back, allowing Pedro to have full view of my ass. "God you're fucking beautiful, Eleanor." His hands moved with the curves of my cheeks. "All mine." He spanked me again, but this time was more gentle. The knock against the wall had scared him. "Are you sure?" He asked as his fingers traced where he would be just moments later. It made everything south of my hips clench and twist.

"Please just fuck my ass. Please."

"Sounds like you're begging me for it, Eleanor."

"I am, I am, please. Please fuck me hard." I moaned, unable to move my hands from the wall knowing Pedro would moan at me if I did and I just wanted him in me.

"My dirty girl." I felt him position himself at my entrance. He took it slow as he entered me, allowing myself to get over the initial pain of him entering. "Is that OK?"

"Ahhh yeah, it's good. Fuck." I let my eyes roll as my body became accustomed to him. "Oh god, oh Pedro."

"That's it baby, keep calling my name." He moved to cup my boobs as his fingers teased my nipples. I felt so full.

"Ahhh Pedro!" I involuntarily moaned. This man could make me do anything for him. Our bodies continued to roll, meeting each other in the middle. I felt Pedro lean his stomach against my back as he picked up the pace, filling me hard and fast.

"Ahh it's driving me wild that no man has ever and will ever have you like this, Eleanor. In your ass. All me. Mine." He growled in my ear before his lips attacked my neck in hot kisses. His left hand moved down between my legs and started to circle my clit, allowing my whole body to jolt with pleasure. "Come on baby, cum for me. Let me make you cum." My legs shook as he moaned into my ear. His fingers twirled, his hips thrust. A concoction that drove me to my orgasm almost instantly. I had to put my hands onto the wall to steady myself. I was riding it out when I heard Pedro growl as he slapped my ass and allowed himself to cum in me. I was still feeling dazed when he slowed down and eventually pulled himself out of me. "Fuck, baby, that was incredible."

"You're incredible." My eyes felt heavy as I turned to look at him. "I love you." I wrapped my arms around his neck and held the back of his head.

"I love you." He, in turn, wrapped his arms around my waist.

"Do you want some help washing your hair?" I asked as I allowed my fingers to tickle the back of his head.

"Please. Then we need to get out of here before you become as wrinkly as me." He grinned as he kissed me again. I placed some shampoo in my hands and smiled and Pedro turned around and gave me the back of his head. He had to bend down a little for me to be able to reach the top of his head.

"You have the best hair ever. I really love these curls." I said, letting my fingers massage the product into his scalp.

"This. Feels. So. Good." Pedro sighed between breathes. "I love it when you play with my hair."

"I love it so much." I drained the suds and signalled for him to turn around. We finished our shower with gentle touches and kisses; a stark contrast to our earlier escapades. Whilst we got ready for bed, we barely spoke. We didn't need to. The smile and touches to each other did all the talking. We were both happy, being around and with each other.

I'd just lay my head back against the pillow when Pedro loomed over me. His eyes were dark and large. He leant on his left elbow and used his right hand to hold my chin. His thumb stroke the length from my bottom lip to the edge of my chin, before his whole hand cupped my jaw and held me still.

"What?" I breathed, unable to look anywhere else but those beautiful brown eyes.

"I just love you so much. So much, Eleanor. You make me so happy." His eyes twinkled. He leant down and placed the softest, heartfelt kiss on my lips before he pulled away. He ran his nose along mine before planting an equally as gentle kiss on my forehead. "Mine forever." I received another kiss. On my forehead. Then each of my cheeks. Back to my lips. He showered my face in heavenly kisses before he stroked my hair out of my eyes. "Come on, let me hold you." He moved so he was lying on his back. He dragged me into his side and pulled me so close to him that it was slightly uncomfortable. I sensed his need to be so loving and gentle with me came from his slightly more dominant side in the bathroom. His arm wrapped around my neck and gripped my head to his chest, so I was pressed against him. He tangled our legs together till we were intertwined. His right arm held my left arm over his stomach and pinned me down. He quite literally held me as close as humanly possible to himself. "Are you OK?"

"Yeah I'm absolutely fine." I mumbled against his chest. I pushed against his hand to look up at him. "Is all of this cos you were slightly more dominant with me tonight?"

"Yeah. I'm sorry I-"

"Pedro. Don't be sorry. I enjoyed it. I mean, I fucking loved it. It wasn't too much. It was so hot. I hope we can do it again."

"You will be the cause of my death." His eyes darkened again as he pushed my head back down against his chest. I could feel his heartbeat tap along my jawline. "Goodnight. Sweet dreams, gorgeous girl."

"Dream of me, on my knees for you. With your dick in my mouth, beautiful man."

"Fuckkkkk." Pedro hissed. I snuggled into him innocently. I couldn't be any happier if I tried.