The mood shifted from comforting to more. He no longer held her because she needed his soothing embrace. His arms stayed wrapped around her because it’s what they both wanted—to share a moment of closeness.
He pulled her closer, guided her mouth to his. Lowered his lips until they touched hers. The kiss was everything he hadn’t allowed himself to imagine. He deepened the kiss until a high-pitched squeal broke into their romantic interlude.
Paige jumped up, laughed nervously. “The tea kettle.”
He wasn’t too fond of the kettle right now, though he acknowledged it’s impeccable timing of protecting boundaries.
They drank their tea at the table, on separate sides, a little space needed. Even after adding honey and sugar, he wasn’t a fan of the tea. Not wanting to be rude, he stomached the entire cup.
Twenty minutes later, their conversation had turned to laughter. Paige smiled again, and the sorrow inflicted by the near accident had faded. He wished he didn’t have to leave, but the hour was late, and now that she was fine, there was no reason to remain past a decent time.
He lingered at the door to say his goodbyes, kept one hand on her arm. “What are your Thanksgiving plans?”
“My family always has a big mid-day dinner. All the local family, including aunts, uncles, and cousins come over.” Her eyes met his. “You and Myla should come. There’s always plenty.”
Selfish disappointment weighed on him. “We’re taking Myla to see her mom. It’s the first time they’ll see each other since Jenna was admitted.”
A soft smile stretched over her mouth. “That’s wonderful. I’ll pray they have a great visit.”
“Thanks.” An idea formed. “We’ll be home around six. Would you like to come over and share our dinner? It won't be homemade—Mom ordered it from a local restaurant for the first time ever, but with the drive to see Jenna, there won’t be time for her to make a full meal.”
“I’d love to. That’s usually the time the non-immediate family heads out so I wouldn’t feel bad leaving.”
“Great.” He dusted a kiss on her cheek. “I’ll call you tomorrow. Goodnight.”
