I spin around.
Ransom.
In my lab.
In a button-down and jeans, looking travel-rumpled and perfect, grinning at me like I’m the only person in the world.
“Hi,” he says.
My throat closes. “You’re here.”
“I’m here.”
I cross the room so fast that I nearly knock over files and papers.
He opens his arms just in time to catch me. I bury my face in his neck, breathing him in.
“You didn’t tell me.”
“Wanted to surprise you.”
I pull back and stare at him. “But you’re supposed to be in surgery tomorrow.”
“I traded with a colleague. Flew out on the redeye. You kept saying you were tired. Sounded like you needed me.”
My eyes fill with tears. “I always need you.”
He cups my jaw, brushing his thumb across my cheek. “Same.”
Behind us, someone clears their throat.
I turn to see my colleague Jordan, who is also doing his postdoc, and our research tech, Priya, watching us in amusement.
I straighten and wave a hand between us. “Everyone—this is Ransom. My boyfriend.”
The word tastes sweet.
Ransom offers a modest smile and nods in greeting.
Jordan grins. “TheRansom?”
Priya cocks an eyebrow. “The one who sent the basket of chocolates?”
“Guilty.” Ransom grins.
“Well done,” Priya nods. “She was insufferably happy for two days after that package. We were, too. She shared the chocolate with us.”
“Can you make sure there are no nuts in the next shipment?” Jordan appeals. “I have an allergy.”
“I’ll do my best,” Ransom says graciously.
I take him to my apartment. The first thing we do isget naked.
He throws me on my bed and enters me in one go. No foreplay. Well, we’ve been getting enough of that every day without each other.
He rests his forehead against mine. “Baby, Em, you feel so damn good.”
I kiss him. “You fill me up in the best way, Ransom.”
