Page 79 of Love Unscripted
Adam’s eyes widened in surprise. “You haven’t taken that off since… since Scarlett,” he said, his voice a mix of shock and concern. “What does this mean?”
Aaron leaned back, his expression contemplative. “I always told myself I wouldn’t take it off because I didn’t want to remarry. I thought it would dishonor her memory.” He paused, the weight of his words hanging in the air. “But lately, I’ve beenfeeling… different. Like maybe it’s time to let go of the past in a way.”
Adam studied him. “Is it Camille who’s causing this change of heart?”
Aaron nodded slowly, a small smile breaking through his somber demeanor. “Yeah, it is.”
Adam’s expression shifted to one of caution. “I know I’ve teased you about her, Aaron, but I’ve got to tell you, there have been some rumors. About her tendency to get involved with the men she works with.”
Aaron shook his head firmly. “I discussed that with her. Those rumors are exaggerated. There’s nothing to worry about. I’ve seen her heart, Adam. I trust her.”
Adam sipped his tea thoughtfully. “I know that you have good judgment but just pray about this, okay?”
“I have,” Aaron assured him, leaning forward slightly. “I’m not going into this blindly. I’ve observed her over the last couple months. I’ve seen her character. I’ve seen her sincerity as a Christian. I believe that she may be the one.”
Adam nodded, though the concern lingered in his eyes. “It’s okay to move forward. Scarlett wouldn’t want you to be alone forever. But take your time. This is a big step.”
Aaron glanced at the wedding band, then back at his brother. “I think I’m ready for that step.”
As they sat in the soft glow of the living room, the weight of the past began to lift, replaced by a sense of hope for the future.
Chapter 14
Aaron lowered himself into one of the chairs in Camille’s living room. Her maid had ushered him in, telling him to have a seat—that Miss Camille would be with him shortly.
This was the first time he had visited her house. It had been her idea for them to have their last Bible study session there, as her treat. He hadn’t put up any fight.
Truthfully, he wanted to be alone with her even though he knew how dangerous that was.
His gaze drifted to the coffee table. Books. One on cooking, several on exotic destinations. He examined each, wondering which offered insight into Camille. It seemed reasonable to assume the destinations held more appeal—three glossy volumes promising escape to one modest book about cooking fish.
Then she appeared.
His chest constricted.
She looked stunning—her flowing dark mane framing her face, chocolate-colored eyes sparkling, that bow-shaped mouth tipping upward in greeting. She wore a snug yellow top and slim fit blue jeans. Her hands were outstretched, and he rose eagerly, pulling her into his arms. He lifted her off the ground and squeezed her as her lips reached up to meet his.
He kissed her deeply, breathing her in, his arms tight around her, loving the feel of her soft, warm body against his.
He groaned.
He wanted to keep kissing her—wanted to forget the Bible study altogether and lose himself in Camille’s senses. He wanted to trail kisses down her neck, run his hands down her body… he wanted—
He broke off abruptly and set her away from him.
She stared at him through hazy eyes, chest heaving.
“Why?” she asked breathlessly. “Why’d you stop?”
He folded his lips inward, dragged a hand over his mouth, then down his chin as he fought for control.
She took a step toward him.
He took one back, holding out a hand. “Uh-uh. Stay right where you are, Camille.”
She swallowed and took a baby step forward.
He took a giant step backward, bumped into the couch, and fell onto it.
