He groans. “Whatever?”
I grin. “Allthe whatever.” And then I step out of the circle of Ryder’s arms to give Chase a hug because I know he’s a softy, even if he tries to act tough.
Chase shakes his head. “Ryder, you’re on probation. Hurt Daisy, and I’ll hurt you.”
Ryder’s eyes are solemn. “I won’t hurt her. She’s my heart, man,” he says.
I look up at him, and I hate that I have to ask this, but I do. “What about your independence? It was so important to you.”
“That was me hanging on to old ideas for far too long. You’re my life, Daisy. You don’t make me weaker. You only make me better. And happy.” He leans down and whispers into my ear. “I’ve been keeping my distance for ten long years. But all it took was a month of being close to you to break down every wall.”
I nod, seeing the deep sincerity in his eyes.
“I kind of feel like we’re in the way here,” Olivia says to Chase. She takes his hand. “Let’s give them space,” she says to Sebastian and Emma, who’ve appeared from the crowd.
“Do we have to?” Sebastian asks. “Because it looks like it’s just about to get good.”
Emma slaps Sebastian lightly on the back of his head.
“Ow, woman. Why do you always do that?”
“Bye,” I say with a waggle of my fingers. “Love you lots.”
Ryder lets out an impatient breath and grabs me around the waist.
“Eeep,” I say on an indrawn breath when he pulls me toward him. I settle my hands on his chest. And then get distracted by his defined pecs and the cool, crisp material.
“I’m sorry it’s taken so damn long to get my head right. It’s my turn to chaseyouthis time.”
“But you’re on tour. And I’m going to London. To pet-sit. And design clothes,” I say. “How will this work?”
He smiles, his golden eyes warm on me. “We’ll make it work. My tour leg leading up to Christmas will be in Europe. It won’t be far to fly to you. I’ll be in London every chance I get. And when you’re done with your job, you can join me on tour, if you want. I’ll make sure you have everything you need when we’re touring to set up your design business so you can work. And I have a month off around Christmas. I thought we could spend it at Piper’s Peak.”
I wind my arms around his neck, my heart filling my whole chest. “I think I can be convinced.” I try to sound cool, but then lose the effect by beaming up at him. “With a kiss.”
A flash goes off. Ryder turns toward the offender with a fierce look.
I squint and then smile. Broadly.
“Rosalie!” I cry. “Ryder, look, it’s Rosalie. I’m so glad she got that photo. I know it’s going to sell for so much money.”
He shakes his head and gifts me with his exasperated-yet-amused look. “Then let’s help her get more.”
His kiss steals my breath. And my heart. Flashes continue to fire.
Rosalie is so getting her payday.
When we finally break apart for a breath, his forehead meets mine, and he whispers, “Can we get out of here now? Please? I know public declarations are your vibe, but do you mindskipping the rest of the party, baby?” he asks. “Because I want to show you just how much I love you. In private.”
My eyes mist at hearing the words I’ve wanted to hear for so long. “Can you say it again?”
He smiles. It’s tender and leaves no doubt about the way he feels. “I love you, Daisy Lane.”
“It’s about damn time,” I say with a joyful laugh. “I love you right back.”
EPILOGUE
Ryder
