Page 73 of Wilde Hearts

I sighed. “It was so romantic. And I got to serve the meal.”

“Meal?” Colt asked.

“Caden had us set up a small table, candles—well, LED ones—and beautiful china, and he had a private meal catered for them.” I placed a hand over my heart. “So romantic.”

Colt rolled his eyes. “So you’ve said.”

Smirking, I added, “You have big shoes to fill.”

Rubbing the back of his neck, he sighed. “I think I’m going to have to bring in some help for this one.”

My mother winked as she said, “Yes, you are, Colt. Yes. You. Are.”

We sat on the front porch for another thirty minutes or so before my mother declared it was too cold. My parents said their goodbyes to Colt, then retreated into the house.

“I should get going,” he said shortly after, standing from the swing.

Pushing the blanket to the side, I stood, as well. “It is chilly out here.”

“Before you know it, winter will be here. Do you still love winter?”

Smiling, I nodded. “I do. There’s nothing like that first snowfall that covers everything in the most beautiful white.”

Colt led the way inside, and we grabbed our coats.

We walked down the steps and toward Colt’s truck. He opened the door, then turned to face me. “Thank you for tonight, Ensley. You have no idea how much this meant to me.”

Smiling, I placed a hand on his chest. “I’m glad you came over. And, if I’m being honest, I’m looking forward to seeing what you come up with for our first date. I’m actually excited.”

He laughed. “No pressure or anything.”

I held up my finger and thumb, making a pinching motion. “Just a bit of pressure.”

“I’ll call you tomorrow, and we can talk about a good time to chat with my parents.”

I nodded. “Okay.”

When he turned to get into the truck, I reached for his arm to stop him. “Colt?”

“Yeah?”

“It’s going to be okay.”

Even in the darkness, I could see the worry in his eyes. “I’ve missed you, Pippa. So fucking much.”

“I’ve missed you, too.”

For a moment, I thought he was going to lean down and kiss me.

When he didn’t make a move, I did. Stretching up, I gently brushed a kiss across his lips.

It only took him two seconds to deepen it, wrapping his arm around my waist and drawing me toward him. My body melted against his as we both moaned softly. This was what I’d missed more than anything. This closeness. Being in Colt’s arms.

When we broke apart, he leaned his forehead against mine. My eyes were still closed as I took in a few deep breaths.

Rubbing his nose against mine, Colt whispered, “I love you, Ensley Wilde.”

My hands gripped the front of his coat. “I swear to God, Colt Owens, if you hurt me again, I will find you and tear your limbs off, then shove them up your ass.”