I don’t recall using that term for any other woman in my life. All I did with them was fuck them. But with Aria, it was never just fucking. It’s always been more. And it always will be. We’ll make this work. I know we will as surely as I know my own name.
I carry her into the bedroom and place her gently on the bed. Stripping down to my boxers, I climb in next to her and wrap the covers around both of us. She burrows into my chest and cuddles against me. I’m content to hold her and listen to the steady sound of her breathing.
If I become homeless tomorrow, I’ll still be rich with Aria by my side. I’ve spent my adult life pursuing carnal pleasures and an elusive Stanley Cup, but nothing compares to this woman and what she means to me.
I love her.
I fall asleep with a smile on my face, a song in my heart, and excitement in what the future holds.
* * *
When I wake the next morning, Aria isn’t in bed, but the sheets are still warm, so she hasn’t been up long. I check the time. It’s Saturday, which makes today the perfect time to tell Noah. I’m nervous as hell about this. I’m pretty certain he’ll be thrilled, but there’s always that little niggling doubt.
I stroll into the kitchen where Aria is making waffles and drinking coffee. I grin like a kid on Christmas morning, put my arms around her waist from behind, and give her a long, sloppy kiss.
“Good morning.” Contentment spreads through me. If I had any doubts about Aria and myself, they’re fading quickly.
“Good morning. What time did you get in?”
“About three.”
“Why didn’t you wake me?”
“Because you looked so damn cute sleeping.”
She rolls her eyes, and I chuckle.
I nuzzle her neck. “Aria?”
“Yes?” She cranes her neck to look up into my eyes. She clearly picks up something in my tone, and she’s puzzled.
I break into a broad smile because this is the moment. “I love you.”
“What?” She stiffens and turns in my arms, gaping at me in sheer horror or surprise or shock or what? I experience a fleeting moment of fear. What if I’m wrong? What if she doesn’t feel the same? What if? What if? What if?
I gather my courage and repeat my declaration. No turning back now. “I love you.”
“You love me?” She shakes her head, as if in denial.
“I do.” I utter two simple words that I mean with every fiber of my soul. I hold my breath while my heart pounds. What if I’ve miscalculated? I’m putting myself out there, allowing myself to be vulnerable, and hoping to the heavens Aria is on the same page.
She’s silent for a long while and not looking me in the eye. Both red flags that tie my stomach into knots. I don’t recall ever being so terrified in my life.
Aria moves into me, placing her arms around my neck. Her gaze meets mine, and I have my answer. It’s plain as day shining in her eyes, but I need to hear it from her lips.
“Well?” I prod.
“Well what?” The brat’s teasing me.
“What’s for breakfast?” I tease right back.
“Who needs food?” She smirks and stands on tiptoes to kiss me. I’m more than happy to oblige. She still hasn’t said it, but she will. My confidence surges because I saw it in her eyes. A person can’t fake that look.
“Ewwww. Yuck.” Noah groans, and we jump apart and whip around to face him. He rubs the sleep from his eyes as he stands before us in Icehawks pajamas. “Why are you kissing my aunt?”
I consider my answer and opt for the truth. “Because I adore her.”
Noah perks up. “You do? Are you going to marry her?”
