After all, I rode the bus here this morning.
And earlier, I’d hitched a ride with Finley to the motel so I could change before the game.
But as Noah settles into the seat beside me, his hand still wrapped around mine, a warm realization settles in my chest.
For the first time since this whole crazy thing started, I’m not trying to run away from it anymore.
Chapter21
Noah
HavingChiara call out to me like that—right there in front of everyone?
Best.Bloody.Day.Ever.
I’ve been walking around with a stupid grin on my face ever since.
This sneaking around we’ve been doing the past couple weeks?
I’ll admit it’s been exciting in its own way.
Stolen kisses.Quiet doors closing.
The thrill of knowing we’re getting away with something.
But the truth is?
My girl shouldn’t be hidden.
She shouldn’t be someone I slip away to see in corners and empty rooms.
Chiara Giardino deserves to be seen.
Praised.
Admired.
Worshipped.
And I’m more than happy to take on that job.
Starting immediately.
The second we step into the hotel room, I shut the door behind us and scoop her up before she can even set her bag down.
She squeals as I hoist her over my shoulder.
“Hey!”she yelps, thumping my back.
Too late.
I’m already marching toward the bathroom.
Her hair brushes my arm, her laughter bouncing around the small room while she kicks lightly behind me.
And yeah, I give her a playful smack on the arse as I go.
She shrieks.
