The others filtered out until the two of them were alone at the table. Aurora tried to make her bagel last as long as possible so they could have a few more minutes.
“What time are you picking up Katie?”
“She’s supposed to be ready for me by eleven.”
“Mike and I will have to be out of here well before that.”
“I know.” She glanced at the clock. “It’s only nine.”
“Roar …”
She hesitated before meeting his gaze.
“I meant what I said upstairs. This isn’t over. It’s just the beginning.” He squeezed her hand. “I never thought I could feel this way again either.”
“Can I ask what happened?”
He sighed and ran a hand through his damp hair. “I’d tell you, but it’s a long story, and we both have things we need to do.”
She nodded, finishing her bagel. “I can wait.”
They rose, put their dishes in the bins, and headed for the elevators.
“What school are you taking her to?”
“Mountain Rock University. It’s only a two-hour drive.” Aurora sighed. “I hope she makes up her mind, and soon. She’s running out of time.”
“It’s a big decision. She’ll figure it out. I’m sure she’s smart like you.”
“Her dad was no idiot either, but he was pretty indecisive about certain things. I think she picked that up from him.”
The elevator doors opened, and they strolled down the hotel hall in silence to Aurora’s door. She hesitated again, her hand on the knob. “Can I see you before we leave?”
“Of course.” He leaned forward to kiss her.
They both knew they were delaying the inevitable. Aurora had to leave by 10:30, Duncan had to be out by ten. But they lingered at the door a moment longer with their arms wrapped around each other, getting one more taste. Reluctantly, Aurora broke the kiss and opened her door, glancing back at him.
“Don’t forget.”
“Never.”
Aurora was still packing when there was a knock on her door. She opened it to find Duncan, his suitcase in tow. “Do you need help getting stuff down to your car?”
“No, I can handle it. Thank you, though.”
“I texted Mike. He and Emily will be meeting me in the garage.”
“I see. I still have to put some things away.”
His hands cupped her face, staring into her eyes. “I don’t want to go.”
“I wish you didn’t have to.” Her eyes were wet. She couldn’t cry. He needed to be on time. “This has been an amazing dream, and I can’t imagine waking up.”
“It’s not a dream. It’s real.” He drew her close and kissed her forehead. “I wish you could come with me.”
She started choking up. “I … I couldn’t—”
“Shh, I know.” He wrapped her in his arms and pressed his forehead to hers. “I’ll let you know when I land. Let me know when you get home, too.”
