Chapter 409

Broderick Ackerley lowered his head and placed a gentle, reverent kiss on the back of Leslie Green’s hand. The next morning, Leslie woke up feeling sore all over. Still, she was up early. Her body was awake, but her brain was still in “nope” mode. With her eyes still closed, she shifted slightly and rolled toward Broderick’s side. Broderick was already up. His side of the bed was empty, but the lingering warmth was still there. Eyes closed, Leslie hugged Broderick’s pillow to her chest. A soft kiss landed on her cheek—so light it was like a feather brushing past. Broderick’s voice came with a subtle smile, "If you’re tired, just sleep in a bit more." His tone was full of tenderness. Had he not said that, maybe Leslie really would’ve stayed under the covers a little longer. But once he spoke, she didn’t want to anymore. Letting go of the pillow, Leslie reached out and grabbed him. She was surprisingly strong—something Broderick had already seen for himself. She’d once punched a hole thr