Page 46 of Love’s Strongest Soldier

She signed, “I’m sorry.”

“You don’t look sorry.”

“Because I ain’t really sorry.”

I shook my head, fighting a smile.

“You’re a fucking menace and got the nerves to talk about me.”

She finally managed to snatch the bags from me.

“And you’re welcome.”

I caught her wrist before she could walk away. “C’mere.”

She turned, and I pulled her against me, wrapping my arms around her waist and burying my face in her neck. For a minute, nothing left my lips. She didn’t speak either. Her arms slowly circled my shoulders. I kissed the side of her neck.

“Thank you, babe.”

Her fingers moved against my back. I pulled away just enough to see her face.

“You’re welcome.”

My lips caressed her forehead, then nose, then mouth. She smiled against my lips.

“Happy birthday, Ghost.”

I rested my forehead against hers.

“Best one I’ve had in a long fucking time.”

Her expression changed. Luxe cupped my face and said, “Well, it’s not over yet.”

My brow raised because now I was interested.

“Don’t start,” she said and stepped out of my arms.

“I ain’t say shit.”

“Your face did.”

“My face always look like this.”

“Unfortunately.” She took me by the hand. “C’mon. I have something for you.”

She glided me and said, “Close your eyes.”

“No.”

“Ghost.”

“Luxe.”

Stopping, she planted her hands on her hips. I folded my arms. We mugged each other. She pointed at my face, not even budging.

“Close your eyes. You’re going to ruin the surprise.”

“Bossy as fuck.”