Page 35 of Highlands Homecoming

Melissa and Colin sat close to each other, their faces lit by the warm glow of the fire. Melissa's hand grazed Colin's as she reached for her cup of hot chocolate, the rich aroma filling her senses. As they sipped from their mugs, the warmth spread through their bodies. Colin's hand tenderly stroked Melissa's cheek before he leaned in for a kiss.

Melissa's heart fluttered as Colin's lips met hers. The kiss was gentle at first, but gradually grew in intensity as they melted into each other. Jingles watched them curiously, his tail thumping against the rug.

When they finally pulled apart, Melissa's eyes twinkled with joy. "I think that definitely counts as a third date," she said breathlessly.

Colin chuckled and leaned back against the couch, pulling Melissa closer to him. They sat in comfortable silence for a while, just enjoying each other's company and the crackling of the fire.

"Can I ask you something?"Melissa finally broke the silence, her fingers tracing patterns on Colin’s arm.

"Of course," Colin replied, turning to face her.

“Do you really think you could live here full time? What made you leave?”

Colin took a deep breath. “Well, I loved the croft, but I was young, and I wanted something more. I wanted to see the world, big cities with skyscrapers and subways and art museums. Certainly there’s London and Edinburgh, but I wanted to … I needed to escape.”

“And now? There aren’t any skyscrapers and subways around here.”

“I no longer feel a need to escape. I am right where I want to be.”

Melissa’s heart filled with warmth, and she blushed before changing the subject. They talked about their childhoods, their dreams and goals, and everything in between until the fire started to die down.

Melissa tried to stifle her yawn, but Colin spotted it.

“Same here.”

"We should probably head to bed soon," Melissa said regretfully, looking at her watch.

Melissa didn't want this magical night to end just yet. Then she realized she’d saidwe.

Colin waited, watching as Melissa replayed the words in her head. She hadn't meant to say it out loud, but now that it was out there, she couldn't take it back.

“Sorry, I didn't mean … I mean, we don't have to …” she stumbled over her words.

“I'd like that,” said Colin.

Melissa's heart skipped a beat. She couldn't believe how comfortable and open she felt with Colin after such a short time. But then again, these past few weeks had been nothing short of magical.

Flushed with excitement and nervousness, Melissa led Colin up the staircase toward her bedroom.

Just as Colin leaned in and kissed Melissa hungrily, his phone buzzed. Melissa paused, but he shook his head and continued kissing her.

The phone buzzed again.

And again.

Colin sighed and looked at it.

“It’s Lindsay.”

“She wouldn’t call at this hour if it wasn’t important.”

Colin answered. “Aye, Lindsay, what’s the—” He listened, his expression growing more grave by the second. “I’ll be right there.”

He hung up and shook his head. “Melissa, I’m so sorry. There’s been an accident.”

He was already starting down the stairs with Melissa right behind him.

“Is it Lindsay? Is she okay?” Melissa's voice trembled.