The Miltons had cleared the dishes an hour ago. The breeze had blown out the candles. And still we sat on the loveseat, limbs entwined, a blanket tucked around us, watching the full moon climb its way across the sky.
“Sara?” Scott’s voice held a nervous quiver. “I have something I want to tell you.”
I nodded, too content to speak.
“At his graduation party, Sean asked me to watch out for you.”
I let the statement settle into me. It was unexpected but not surprising. “What did you say?”
“Absolutely.”
I shifted until I could see Scott’s profile. “Did you know what Sean really meant?”
“Yeah. Teresa had explained. Your brother and I reached an understanding.” Scott squirmed. “He was worried that you might relapse over Gryphon.”
That never would’ve happened, but from Sean’s perspective, it was a legit concern. “So you’ve kept an eye on me since February?”
“Like I promised.”
“Why didn’t you tell me last spring?”
There was reluctance in his sigh. “You weren’t very approachable, Sara. Kind of snobby.”
I stiffened and straightened up. “I didn’t mean to be.”
His arms tightened around me. Drew me back. “I’m just telling you how it felt at school.”
For a moment, I remained rigid, long enough for him to register my hurt.
“I misread you, Sara, and I’m sorry. I know now that you’re reserved, but once you let someone in, you’re all in. You humble me.”
Snuggling against his shoulder, I closed my eyes. The temperature was dropping. We’d have to leave soon.
“My brother was the best.”
“His sister is pretty perfect, too.”
Until Scott kissed my cheek, I hadn’t realized I was crying.
No.No. This was our beautiful, amazing night. There was no room for sadness.
I broke free of Scott’s embrace and whipped around to straddle his lap. My arms locked around his neck. “I want some serious making out before we go.”
“Totally onboard with that.”
I initiated the kissing and tried to stay focused, but it was too easy to get distracted. It was a relief to have Scott take over.
Too soon he slowed the pace and then pulled back. “Sara?”
“I know. Evening’s over.”
He groaned. “Yes.” He stood, allowing my body to slide down until my feet reached the floor.
Is it too early to say I love you?
His eyes widened. “What?”
“Wow. I actually said that out loud.” I swallowed hard. That needed a replay. “I’m about to bare my soul. Promise not to run off screaming in the other direction.”
