He clutches at his chest dramatically. “Straight through the heart. I really do need to join the fragile ego men’s club.”
I shrug lightheartedly. “You can call it the men’s club. Adding ‘fragile ego’ makes it redundant.”
Roman laughs loudly, his eyes crinkling at the corners. “Now there’s the Lavinia I know.”
His face clears of humor and my smile drops. We can’t stay out here all night, and I realize that a part of me is stalling going inside and facing my family. Being with Roman is safe and easy. There’s no drama and no questions.
“Are you going to be okay?”
I’m not sure what the answer to that is, but I still say, “Yeah, I’ll be fine.”
Roman nods, his tongue poking out to lick his bottom lip. I track the movement with my eyes, my belly tightening. Wrapping my arms around myself, I try to stop a shiver. The sun is shifting, and shadows are lengthening, causing a chill in the air.
“Be careful.” I nod towards his bike.
He huffs a laugh as he gets on it, pulling the helmet on.
“I’ll see you around, Blossom.”
Before I can say anything, he starts the bike and roars away, leaving me standing on the side of the road. I take a shaky breath, his taste still on my tongue. As I turn and walk up the driveway of the resort, there’s only one thought in my mind.
I’m going to miss Roman Maddox.
MARCH
Lavinia
I heard the good news.
Roman
Not sure I’d call it good news.
Lavinia
Why? You said it yourself, you have no loyalty to the Falcons. At least the Titans are your home team.
Roman
Let’s talk about you. How are you doing?
Lavinia
I’m fine.
Roman
Really? You would’ve been on your honeymoon by now.
Lavinia
Thanks for the reminder. I cut myself earlier while slicing strawberries, want to come over and rub some salt in it?
Roman
No, but I wouldn’t mind coming over. What will you be wearing?
Lavinia
