She made the final move, lifting her lips to meet his. His arms slid around her waist. The kiss deepened and even when it ended, he didn’t let her go. He never wanted to leave her again.
But desire and necessity didn’t always agree, and by government orders he had to leave. “Two and a half months. Will you wait for me?”
A tear glistened at the corner of her eyes. “How could I not?”
“Did you mean it, that it’s always been me?”
“Even with Ray, it wasn’t love but companionship.” She leaned her head against his chest. “I thought I’d lost you forever.”
“Me too.” He ran his fingers in circles on the back of her head. “Come visit me. Bring Cecily and we’ll have a weekend together. I’m watching a buddy’s house while he’s deployed and the two of you can stay there. You won’t even need a hotel, and I’ll cover your flights.”
“Okay.”
“You mean it? I don’t have to get on my knees and beg?”
She giggled and lifted her head. “I want to see you in that element while I have the chance. I want to know everything about that part of your life.”
“When?”
“I’ll look at my calendar. Business has picked up, but family takes priority.”
“Name the date and I’ll make it happen.” Leaving didn’t hold the same heaviness now that he knew he’d see her before March.
“I’ll let you know tonight.” She slipped off the rail. “I wish we didn’t have separate cars here.”
“Leave yours, and I’ll ask Monica or Lacey to drive you back.”
She shook her head. “Tempting, but they have newborns.”
“Jenna’s still here. She will.” His lips spread in a wide smile. “Especially if we tell her why.”
Serena seemed to contemplate the idea. “You know, Pawpaw did say he wanted to take home a few items from here. We can come up tonight and get them.”
“Then it’s settled.” He took her hand, wrapped it firmly in his. “You’re coming with me. At least back to your house.”
“Let me call Pawpaw to be sure. I don’t want to interfere with any plans he’s made with Millie.” She took a step toward the cabin and he fell in beside her. She went inside and was there for a few minutes. When she came out, her lips twitched with amusement. “Pawpaw said that’s fine, and to be prepared to answer questions when I get home.”
“Will you tell him?”
“If you don’t mind. I’ve never kept secrets from him.”
“I don’t mind, but can we tell Cecily first?” He shrugged, unsure if his fatherly instinct was right. “That is, if you don’t think it will upset her.”
“Are you kidding? She’s been dreaming of this day since she found out about you.” She locked the cabin door and walked down the steps. “I don’t think it will come as a surprise. She said you and I look at each other way too much for two people who aren’t attracted to the other.”
He snorted in laughter. “Impertinent little thing, even if it’s true. My family has made several similar comments to me.”
She shrugged. “I didn’t think it was that obvious.”
“Neither did I but think of the bright side.” He shot her a charming grin. “We won’t have to hide it anymore.”
“In that case…” Her eyes sparkled, but he didn’t see anything after her lips came to his again.
He didn’t care that a car passed on the road and then another. He didn’t notice the neighbors sitting on their porch, silently cheering on the young couple.
He only knew Serena in that moment and the love that filled his heart.
Chapter Fourteen
