“You’re not going to tell me where we’re going, are you?”
“If you really want me to, I will, but I’d like it to be a surprise.”
She settled comfortably into her seat. “Whatever it is, I’ll love it.”
“Are you afraid of heights?”
“No, not as long as there is a railing of sort around the ledges.” She tried to guess in her mind where they were going, then decided the mystery was half the fun.
They drove for forty-five minutes until Carl navigated into a large lot with hangars and helicopters.
She scanned the area, confused. “Are we in the right place?”
He only nodded, then parked in front of the far-left hangar. “We’re taking a sunset helicopter tour.”
“What?” She gasped, in awe, unaware such thing existed. “Of where?”
“Annapolis.” He hopped out and opened her door before she could catch her bearings. “Ready?”
Excitement pumped in her blood. “Yes.”
“An old friend is the pilot. He saved my tail many times in Afghanistan, and you can be sure he’ll keep us safe.” He led her with his hand on her back.
The hangar door opened, and out walked a man who looked like he’d never left the military. He had a pleasant aura and winsome smile. “Jake Danners. You must me Luna. Carl’s told me all about you.”
She caught a glimpse of Carl who looked at her with a guilty grin. Jake explained what to expect during the tour and ran down a list of safety precautions. Carl climbed into the helicopter before her, then held out a hand to help her up. She sat in one of the four chairs and put on the headset Jake had handed her.
An adrenaline shiver passed through her. She’d never taken a flight of any sort, and though nervous, she knew Carl wouldn’t put her in a dangerous situation. If he trusted his friend as a pilot, she did as well.
The helicopter lifted from the ground in a whirl of engine buzzing and created wind. The aircraft seemed to bounce in the air before ascending to a smooth ride. Her eyes were glued out the window, watching a panoramic sweep of Annapolis at night.
Jake pointed out areas of interest as they flew over them—the naval academy, the state capitol, the harbor. Watching the glow of lights against the copper and violet backdrop of the sky as she flew hundreds of feet above them thrilled her. She tore her gaze from the window for a peek at Carl.
He watched her with a smile on his face. His mouth moved, and he said something, but she couldn’t hear above the noise and headset. She pointed to her ears, hoping he’d get the message. His cheeks rose high when he smiled, and he gestured for her to look out the window again.
Her breath caught in her throat when she saw the Bay Bridge. She’d crossed it several times in her life, but it was stunning from this angle. The water gently lapped against its supports, and the bay reflected the calming colors of twilight.
Too soon, the ride ended. Her body trembled when she planted her feet on solid ground, partially from readjusting after the bumpy landing, but also due to the experience. It was the most amazing thing she’d ever done other than raising two beautiful daughters.
Carl thanked Jake and handed him a tip, then caught her hand in his. “What do you think?”
“It was wonderful.” When she looked at him, she was certain there were stars in her eyes. “I loved every minute of it.”
A lazy smile appeared. “I loved watching you every second of it.”
She ducked her chin but couldn’t hide her smile. “I’ll never forget it.”
They came to the truck, but he didn’t open the door. He had something on his mind, and she leaned against the hood while she waited for him to speak. A cold wind blew from nowhere. She shivered and rubbed her hands up and down her arms.
Carl’s eyes went to her hands. He covered hers with his and continued warming her arms. His hands stilled when he took a step toward her. They were inches apart.
She’d been in his arms before, but this time was different. It was a promise of protection and love. With Carl, she’d always be safe. He’d helped her piece her life together in ways she never saw coming. He’d become a friend and confidante, the man she loved.
His eyes locked on hers. She’d avoided eye contact for many years, but it didn’t bother her with him. He’d never take advantage of what her eyes told, and he’d never wield power over her. He was too honest, too gentle.
He cupped a hand at the nape of her neck and nudge her closer, allowing her to pull away should she desire. She didn’t want to. She wanted this kiss with everything in her. His lips touched hers, and electrifying pulses shot through her. When he pressed more firmly, she gave into him, showing she trusted him implicitly.
A single kiss.
