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I splash water on my face and finger-comb my messy hair in the ensuite, trying to tame the unruly mop.
Following my nose, I go down the hallway toward the kitchen, a spring in my step and a flutter in my heart.
Jake stands at the stove, spatula in hand, whistling as he flips pancakes. I prop myself against the doorframe, feasting on the sight.
He's shirtless, wearing only low-slung sweatpants. I pause to admire the muscles flexing across his broad shoulders and down his powerful back.
He glances over his shoulder and catches me staring. A slow, heated smile spreads across his handsome face.
“Good morning, beautiful,” he says, his deep voice still gravelly from sleep. “I hope you're hungry.”
I cross to him, sliding my arms around his waist.
“Starving,” I murmur into his broad back.
He turns in my arms, pulling me close. His lips find mine in a searing kiss that steals my breath. When we break apart, I'm flushed and breathless.
“Easy there, or we'll burn breakfast,” Jake teases, his eyes dancing playfully.
He gives me one more quick peck before returning to the sizzling pancakes.
Jake flips pancakes with practiced ease. The snap and pop of batter hitting the hot skillet fills the cozy kitchen. I hop up to sit on the counter, snacking on blueberries from the bowl beside me.
Sunlight streams through the window. The relaxed homeliness of it all makes my chest swell with emotion.
Last night changed everything, deepening our bond intimately. Yet, the morning after feels even more special.
Feeling playful, I steal sips of Jake's coffee. The rich aroma and smooth flavor make me hum with pleasure.
“Hey, that's mine.” Jake brandishes the spatula at me, but there's no heat in his voice.
“Sharing is caring,” I tease, taking another sip.
“You're lucky you're cute.” I stick my tongue out, and he retaliates by flicking a blueberry in my direction.
I catch it in my mouth, and we both laugh. Grinning, I hop off the counter and pour myself a coffee.
I lean against the counter, watching him work, contentment swirling inside me.
“What can I do?” I ask, wanting to be helpful.
Jake briefly turns his head, a playful smirk on his face. “You can keep me company and maybe steal a few kisses when I'm not looking.”
I laugh, shaking my head. “You're incorrigible.”
“You love it,” he teases, winking at me.
“Where are your folks taking Amber for summer vacation?”
“They're heading to Hawaii for two weeks. Amber can't wait to try surfing and snorkeling. My parents are thrilled to spend more time with her, too. They're taking her to visit the volcanoes and explore the islands.”
My heart warms at the pride in his voice. His devotion to Amber is one of the things I admire most about him. “That's wonderful. I'm sure she's thrilled.”
Jake nods, a proud smile tugging at his lips. “She's been talking about it non-stop. The house will be quiet without Amber around.”
I sense the emotion in his voice. “I can only imagine.”
Jake catches me around the waist, pulling me close. “But if you look on the bright side, we'll have more time together.”
