Page 106 of The Wedding Run

With his breath warm against my lips, he asks, “You sure about this?”

“I’ve never been more certain. It’s the person that matters, the who, not the what or how long. If it’s the right person, it’s easy to give completely.”

“Very wise of you,” he says.

I smile, my lips brushing against his. “All it takes is practice.”

He dips his head, and I rise on tiptoe. Where we were once two individuals, each with our own hopes and dreams, we come together, blending into one. Our hearts pound against one another.

When he presses his forehead to mine, I whisper, “I don’t think you need any practice in that department.”

“Indulge me.” He kisses me again. It’s a kiss that goes on and on… well, I’m not sure how long because I lose track of time and space.

Someone rattles the front door, sees the ‘Closed’ sign, and hurries on.

“What about The Brew?” I ask. “Should I talk to Derek? I don’t want him to cause you any trouble.”

“I’ve already talked to the bank. If he withdraws his funds, we’re covered. What’s important to me is that you’re here.” Luke tightens his arms around me. “I’ve thought about this ever since I picked you up on the highway in your wedding dress. Or maybe when I carried you over the threshold.”

“But you acted as if you weren’t interested.”

He looks me in the eye. “You needed a friend.”

“And now what?”

He kisses me, this time deeper and longer, until we’re both aware that we're in a public space. He presses his forehead against mine as we luxuriate in each other's presence and catch our breath. I manage, “I really did win.”