“I can’t just quit, can I?” A hint of a smile flickers at the edge of her mouth and I know I’ve said the right thing.
Sitting up I press a soft kiss on her lips. “Sweetheart, if you want to quit, you can quit. I’ll fully support you.”
Her small hands cradle my face as she stares into my eyes. "I love you.”
“I love you.” I pull her down for another soft kiss before she settles back against my chest, not quite ready to get up just yet.
If Kate wants to quit her job and look elsewhere, there’s no question that I’ll support her. She could become a barista for all I care so long as she’s happy. She’s worked at her real estate agency for over three years now and I know she loves her job, not particularly the people she works with, this Chelsea being the main culprit.
More than ever, I’m resolved to get this goddamn promotion. Fuck delays, nothing will stop me from giving the woman of my dreams the life she deserves.
Warm lips press against the hollow of my neck before Kate sits up with a sigh. “I’m going to get ready for bed. Are you going to bed soon?”
This is one of my favorite things about living with Kate. Waking up to her and falling asleep next to her is as close to heaven on earth as it gets. There are no prolonged goodbyes, no drive home, just simple domestic bliss.
“Yeah, I’ll head back in a bit.” Kate wiggles her way off my lap and leans in for one more kiss before leaving me to my beer.
Now that Kate is back home, whatever stress is leftover from earlier is completely forgotten. Nothing matters but her. There’s no need to burden her further with my work issues right now when she’s got enough to deal with already.
By the time I peel myself off the couch and pick up after myself, Kate is crawling into bed wearing her matching silk pajama set. She looks gorgeous, her face make-up free and hair in a messy bun. For a moment, I lean on the doorframe watching her move around the room. She works on fluffing the pillows behind her and settles into bed with a sigh before she spots me.
Playfully, Kate flings the comforter up on my side of the bed giving it a quick pat. “Babe, bring your sexy ass to bed.”
“You don’t have to tell me twice.” With two quick steps, I launch myself onto the bed, the mattress bouncing underneath us.
“Oh my god,” she laughs, as I settle my body weight on top of her. “You’re crushing me.”
With a heavy sigh, I roll off of her and tuck myself into bed next to her. Kate reaches over and flips off the lamp on the bedside table and darkness falls over us. Reaching for her, I wrap my arms around her waist and pull her to me, breathing in the scent of her coconut body wash.
“Goodnight, sweetheart.” With the love of my life safely wrapped in my arms, I fall asleep, bound and determined to give her the life she deserves.
Chapter 5
Kate
“Oh my god, this is delicious.” The cake is fruity, moist, and oh so mouthwatering. It’s everything a wedding cake should be. The urge to roll my eyes with pleasure is difficult to resist, especially when Tanner sits across from me. Just as I suspected, his eyes are locked on my face and there’s scorching heat in them.
Those stunning hazel eyes shine as he slowly and seductively brings the cake to his delectable lips. He makes an appreciative noise in the back of his throat, doing funny things to my body. “It’s good, but then again nothing tastes as good as you.”
Immediately my cheeks flame red. “Tanner!” I gasp, my head turning to make sure no one heard his comment. “Anyone could’ve heard you.” Unconcerned, he laughs and leans back in his seat, the picture of ease.
The bakery, suggested by my mom of course, is known for its elegant cakes that taste as good as they look. Things have been crazy busy lately, so nailing down a day with our hectic schedules was difficult.
Tonight, we are celebrating our three year anniversary. It’s been three years since I walked smack into his chest while walking down the street and now we’re planning our wedding. We started the evening with dinner at one of my favorite restaurants before heading here for the cake tasting. With everything going on, a low-key anniversary is perfect.
“You’re being naughty today,” I point out while nabbing another bite of cake. He’s been a bitofflately and I can’t figure out why. More and more he’s coming home distracted like something’s going on with him. I’m doing my best to not read into it, but it’s hard.
He takes a sip of water, winking at me as he does. “Blame you and that goddamn sundress you’re wearing.Are you trying to kill me?”
“What, this old thing?” With the summer heat blazing down, this dress was the perfect pick. The smooth yellow tone works well with my auburn hair and the fabric is lightweight and flowy. “I thought it was nice.”
“Oh, it’s nice alright.” His tone suggests he’s not just talking about the dress.
The look he gives me threatens to make me combust. Clearing my throat, I try to change the subject before my panties are ruined. “Okay, back to the cake. What’s your favorite?” The table is littered with half-eaten miniature wedding cakes.
He surveys the options between us, his expression thoughtful. “Well, I liked the chocolate praline one. This one was different,” he points to the mocha and lavender buttercream, “but I think I agree with you. This white chocolate raspberry is delicious.” He dips his fork back into my favorite, stealing another bite.
“The red velvet was good, but you’re right,” I agree. “Nothing compares to this one. What if we made the chocolate praline your groom’s cake?”
