Page 116 of I Never Stopped Loving You

I wonder if Jeremy dated her before and she recognized me. That would make sense with how many people he’s dated.

“She probably just thought you were hot,” she teases as she pulls the chair closer to sit next to me.

“What are you doing?” I ask, and she looks up at me, stunned.

“What?”

“Get over here,” I say as I grab her wrist and gently pull her up onto the bed like before.

She fits so perfectly in my arms. She tucks herself against my body, resting her head on my chest as I rest my head on top of hers.

“Noah, do you think this is moving too fast?”

“No.”

“Really?”

“Do you?” I ask her with genuine concern. I don’t want to rush her if she’s still hesitant.

“I…I don’t know.”

We sit in silence for a moment as her fingers run up and down my chest. My heart rate monitor keeps spiking higher, and I can tell she’s enjoying the effect she’s having on me. The only problem is that my head is starting to hurt worse. Maybe the nurse was right.

“I don’t think it’s too fast, Willow. We don’t have to put a label on it or anything. We’re still getting to know each other. Are you happy?”

Please say yes. For fuck’s sake, if she even hesitates…

“Yes, I’m happy with you, Noah. Honestly, I feel happier than I have in a long time.”

“Then what’s the problem?”

She sighs, and I can feel her fingers grip me tighter.

“I’m scared,” she finally whispers.

“Why?”

“Before Jeremy came in, you had asked me about my parents. Well, let’s just say that my past is one of the reasons I’m afraid to get close to anyone.”

My heart breaks for her. Has she never let anyone even get close to her in all these years? Does anyone even know the real her?

“Willow.” I tilt her face up to look at me. “I swear to you that I will never hurt you. I promise that no matter what, I will always take care of you.”

“How can you promise that? We just met.”

She tucks her face back against my shirt, and I know my plan has to happen sooner rather than later. I need her to see that I’d do anything for her. Anything.

“Because, Little Rabbit, I feel like I’ve known you for a lifetime. I know this isn’t moving too fast because it feels right. Being with you is perfect, and just being able to be near you, seeing your smile, hearing your laugh…That’s all I want. I’m willing to take this as slow as you need, but promise me something.”

“What’s that?”

“You won’t hide from me. I want to know you, all of you. The good and the bad. Promise me you’ll be honest with me, and I’ll do the same.”

She looks up at me before leaning to kiss me. It’s a slow kiss, enjoying the feeling of the connection between us before she breaks away staring into my eyes.

“I promise.”

CHAPTER 52