Free This Time by Ingrid Monique Page A

getting into his jeep.
    â€œOK, four then?”
    â€œYu’ got it.” He smiled. He had to admit that it pleased him that she wanted to see him. She was an intoxicating, beautiful woman who was easy to talk to and be with. He recalled her telling how familiar he was to her and the tinge of guilt that came over him then. He had managed to keep his emotions in check at that moment. In good time he would reveal who he really was, but for now he had to make sure he maintained her interest.
    Kelee must have changed outfits at least six times before she settled on jeans, a rayon wrapped shirt, and mules. She asked Lori to do her hair in a single braid down her back.
    â€œSo where’s he takin’ yu’?” Lori asked.
    â€œDon’t know,” Kelee said, excited.
    â€œYu’ really like him?”
    â€œYeah,” she admitted. “Is there something I should know about him?” she asked, concerned.
    â€œNo, Sean’s a good man.”
    â€œBut?” Kelee waited for her to continue.
    â€œI jus’ don’t want to see yu’ end up hurt. Women fall so easily for him, and he knows it. He’s not conceited or anything like that, but he does have them falling at his feet.”
    Kelee told her, “Don’t worry about me, I can take care of myself.”
    â€œI know that, but how will yu’ handle walkin’ away from him when yu’ have to leave?”
    â€œI’ll handle it,” Kelee reassured her with a smile.
    â€œYu’ sure?” Lori looked at her, concerned.
    â€œYes, Mommy.” She laughed and kissed Lori’s cheek.
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    Sean picked her up a few minutes after four. As always, he looked good. He was a bit wrinkled and sweaty, but still, he looked good.
    â€œWe have to stop at my house so I can take a shower before we go; is that OK? Or I could swing back and pick yu’ up in an hour.”
    â€œNo, I’ll come with yu’. I’d like to see yu’ house,” she told him and got a smile that took her breath away.
    â€œThought yu’ might.” He grinned and helped her into his jeep.
    At the top of the road Kelee noted that he headed farther uphill. She took note of the luxury homes on their way up. She was surprised when a few minutes later he pulled up to the gate of a massive house.
    â€œYu’ live here?” she asked when he pressed a control that opened the gate.
    â€œYes. Yu’ like it?” he asked.
    â€œAre yu’ joking?” Kelee asked as he drove down the path towards an open garage.
    Kelee got out of the jeep following Sean, marveling at the beauty of his two-level house. She loved the endless veranda and the soft cream and blue. She paused and turned to look out from the house and was met with the spectacular view of homes cascading down the hill. She spotted Lori’s house and immediately turned to find Sean grinning at her.
    â€œGreat view.” She studied him as he casually leaned against the railing.
    â€œIt is.” His eyes were focused on her, making her blush.
    â€œCome in.” He gestured towards the richly detailed front door of mahogany and stained glass. She followed him into the foyer; cream decorative tile gleamed under the lights. End tables held fresh flowers. A curved wooden stairwell led to the upstairs. The man had a great sense of style. He definitely knew how to decorate. She followed him into the living room, and instantly fell in love with his Caribbean colonial styled furniture.
    â€œDid yu’ have yu’ furniture custom made?” she asked, taking a closer look at the intricate carvings on the wall unit that held delicate mini statues. She admired a crystal market vendor woman, sitting over her basket of fruits.
    â€œThese are exquisite, yu’ have really good taste,” she said, impressed. She touched the cool crystal of the statue.
    â€œThanks,” he replied in a sarcastic tone. Kelee turned to look at