I don’t want to open my eyes.
Patrick’s warmth is still beside me, and I’m so comfortable that the thought of moving isn’t fun. I could lie in bed like this forever.
When I do open my eyes, Patrick’s propped up on one elbow watching me.
“You know this is the first time we’ve spent the whole night together. Remember when we fell asleep and you freaked out because we slept until two in the morning?”
I laugh, but then the pain of the party night hits. I should be over it—I thought I was, but Patrick being here brings it all back.
“Mum was waiting in the kitchen. She knew what I’d been up to.”
He chuckles. “She knew I’d defiled her daughter?”
That makes me laugh again. He’s so good for me, even if I’m struggling sometimes with the past. “Oh, she knew, but she just wanted to make sure I was safe. I don’t think she could sleep until I was home.” I sigh. “I know what that’s like now I’m the mother of a teenager. I’m not sure what I’m going to do when she starts dating.”
Patrick rolls onto his back. “That’s enough to givemenightmares. She’s far too sweet to be allowed anywhere near boys.”
“I’m so proud of her.” I roll to face him.
“We … uhh … we still need to talk.”
He knows.
“I know. Just give me time.”
He turns toward me, pressing his forehead to mine. “I can do that. You’re worth it.”
“I hope so,” I whisper.
“It’s too soon for you. I’m not heartless. And I know how much you loved Mark.”
Tears prick my eyes. “I miss him.”
“I know you do, baby. I didn’t know him long, but I miss him too.”
He pulls away and meets my gaze.
“I’m glad you became friends before he died,” I say.
“He gave me his blessing, you know?” Patrick reaches outand tucks a lock of hair behind my ear. “So, I’m going nowhere, Cassie. Not while you need me.”
I think I’ll always need you.
“That’s so him—always thinking of me and Sophie.”
“He loved you. And I do too. But I can wait.”
Patrick opens his arms to me, and I move closer and into them. He kisses my temple. “I don’t want to get out of bed.”
“Me either. But I’ve got a living room full of teen girls who will want breakfast.” I place my hand on his hip. “So you’d better get dressed because I’m not sure they can cope with seeing you like this.”
He chuckles. “Oh, this look is just for you.”
His eyes tell me how he’s feeling—but it’s too soon for me.
I’m glad he’s determined to stick around, but a part of me is terrified that it’ll all go wrong again.
I need time to work out how I feel.
