“We’ve had this discussion, Lani. You’re not going anywhere without me.”
She smiled again. “I was just checking.”
In two days they were starting their journey to California, to her home. Once there, they’d be unraveling the mess that was her financial situation and sorting out wills and what to do with her family’s properties.
“Noah?”
“Hmmm?” He was worried about her facing her past and what she’d find, and how she’d react. It would be hard after so long, facing what she’d lost for so many years. That, plus the memories of her parents.
“I want to live in Lake Howling always.”
“What?” Dragging his eyes from Cubby and Katie, he looked down into Lani’s gray eyes. Another shock. She’d worn contacts.
“I want to live here with you.”
“Okay, that’ll work.” His throat was tight with emotion. They’d never discussed it, but it had been in his thoughts. “But if you change your mind, I’ll follow.”
“I won’t. And, Noah?”
“Yes.”
“I want you to help me work out how we can use the money I’ll inherit. It will be our money. Maybe you could pay off your loan?”
“Lani—”
“I know you have your pride, but I have mine too. I want be involved in your life.”
“You are, always will be. I’m not letting you go.” He leaned down and kissed her. “But how about we discuss all this later.”
“Noah?”
He sighed, then turned his chair and hers so they were facing each other.
“Yes.”
“Mrs. C is thinking of selling the Howlery. I think we should buy it.”
“Do you now?”
She nodded, looking so sweet in her new dress, his heart sighed.
“You do realize we’re at a wedding, don’t you, Lani?”
“I do, and it’s a great place to talk because you can’t walk away from me.”
He cupped a soft cheek. “I’d never walk away from you.”
She kissed him, her lips clinging to his.
“I love you, Noah.”
“I love you, Lani, and I know it’s too early for us to discuss it, but one day I want this with you.”
“Really? Oh.” She pressed a hand to her lips.
“Really. Marriage and babies. Plus, Buddy and Bandit need a proper home. But as I just said, how about we discuss it later.”
“I just wasn’t sure, after Samantha, if you’d want to do it again.”
