“I might benefit. That doesn’t mean I should use it.”
“And if we’re photographed tomorrow?”
“I won’t deny you. I also won’t decide what we are in front of a microphone.”
“That may not stop them.”
“No.”
She rubbed her hands together.
“I hate that answer.”
“I have several more available.”
“That was not a request.”
The distance between us had narrowed during the conversation. Our shoulders were not touching, but I no longer had to turn fully to see her.
“I’m still angry,” Ellie said.
“I know.”
She looked at me.
I corrected myself.
“I remember.”
“Better.”
“I’m not expecting the anger to disappear because I flew here.”
“Part of me thinks it should be easier now.”
“Which part?”
“The part that wants to kiss you and stop discussing logistical problems.”
“That part sounds intelligent.”
“It has questionable judgment.”
“I brought supporting documentation.”
She glanced at the hat.
Then her gaze returned to my face.
I wanted to touch the strand of hair moving against her cheek. My hand shifted before I stopped it.
Ellie noticed.
“You can ask.”
The words changed the air between us.
“May I kiss you?”
