“I’m flattered to be haunted by my dead boyfriend for all eternity.”
“Don’t worry, I’ll chase off any prospects that try and make a move on you.”
I let out a small laugh. “Poltergeist style, huh.”
“Complete with the spooky notes on a foggy mirror after a hot shower and everything.”
Oh, how I loved this man.
Really,reallyloved him.
“You can’t go first. That’s not fair. You already tried that, remember?”
“Too true.” He cupped my jaw. “What a poor choice in trying to get your attention.”
“Seriously.”
My mom clapped a hand over her mouth, a small sob nearly escaping. “Oh, you two!”
Slipping the other bottle from Marlow’s grasp, I passed it over to her before the water works could start. Not that I minded them, but once she started, she was going to get me going, too. This sudden and profound love confession was already making me dizzy with emotions as it was.
“Want to go pop those open? I’m sure Cassie and Carly will be happy to snag a glass.”
She quickly nodded her head, holding both to her chest like precious cargo. “Yes, absolutely. Oh, I’m so happy. Marlow, please come on in. We don’t bite.”
“Can’t say the same for myself,” he teased.
She let out a delighted sound. “You’re funny. I like you. You’re going to fit right in.” Pivoting on her heel, she stomped down the hall, toward the kitchen, calling out for my father. “Mark! Blake’s here!”
The moment she disappeared around the corner, I turned back to Marlow. “You meant what you said?”
“Every damn word,” came his easy reply.
I couldn’t help but sag into him, letting my arms wrap around his waist. “Me too.”
He gasped. “You bite? Since when?”
The moment he cupped my face to tilt it up toward his again, I smiled. “I love you, too, Marlow.”
His smile was incandescent, deepening his dimples in the most charming way, sending my heart fluttering. He slotted his mouth over mine, kissing me until my entire body tingled.
“I love you, Blake... forever.”
Not being able to help myself, I replied, “I hope you remember that when we’re five rounds deep into Jenga.”
“That’s what the wine’s for.”
Touché.
“Come on,” snagging his hand, I tugged him down the hall. “My family awaits your anticipated presence.”
He squeezed my hand in return. “Can’t wait.”
Terran
A knife thunkedinto the side of the wall right by my shoulder, missing me by a mere two inches. Attached to the handle was a white-knuckled hand that strained to pull it out, the soft grunting of someone close to me sending chills racing down my spine.
Holy shit?—
